Seeed Studio, openUC2 Team Up on a Modular Microscope Designed to Be "the Raspberry Pi of Optics"

Seeed Studio has partnered with openUC2 to release what the companies are calling "the Raspberry Pi of optics," the openUC2 10× AI Microscope — an affordable kit-form device that aims to deliver smart microscopy to all.

"[The] openUC2 10× AI Microscope is a collaborative innovation between openUC2 and Seeed Studio that brings advanced, accessible microscopy to everyone," Seeed's Estella Tang explains. "This 'Raspberry Pi for optics' features high-resolution imaging via a XIAO ESP32S3 with the [Omnivision] OV2640 camera, precision motorized focusing, and a modular, robust design ideal for both field and classroom use. With Wi-Fi connectivity, browser-based control, and support for autonomous operations like timelapse imaging, it’s designed for educators, researchers, and hobbyists alike."

The microscope kit, brought to our attention by CNX Software, is powered by a Seeed XIAO ESP32S3, an Espressif ESP32-S3 development board, linked to an Omnivision OV2640 camera sensor — a 1600×1200 UXGA rolling-shutter color sensor — which aims through a 10× lens to provide a microscopy resolution as low as 4µm. If different magnification is required, the objective lens can be swapped by simply unscrewing it from the microscope.

"Users can build anything from an introductory setup to a complex, high-resolution microscope using openUC2's injection-molded cubes, enabling the the rapid assembly of complex optical setups, not only in educational settings but also for professional use in industries," Tang says of the open-source device's modularity. To prove the device's capabilities, Seeed has published a set of experiments — starting with basic field microscopy and extending to the installation of a 3D-printable autofocus system and large-sample stage scanning system.

"Our goal is to build an open ecosystem/platform where people can easily exchange ideas and develop solutions, not just in electronics but also optics," openUC2 chief executive officer Benedict Diederich explains of his company's vision. "It's crucial to lower entry barriers, allowing users to work with ready-made modules that can be purchased from an online shop."

The openUC2 10× AI Microscope, which gets its "AI" moniker from integrated tinyML image processing algorithms, is available to order on the Seeed Studio store now at $109; early adopters can get 10 per cent off if they order before 30 October 2024 with code "OpenUC2". More information on the project is available on the openUC2 website.