A major medical technology company approached Prior Scientific to help increase the throughput
of a benchtop pathology scanning system. The goal was straightforward: capture more images in
less time without compromising image quality or system reliability.
The challenge: imaging samples in motion
Traditional imaging systems require the stage to move into position and then stop to capture the image. While effective, this approach extends processing times and reduces the number of samples that can be scanned.
On-the-fly imaging increases throughput because the sample never stops moving. The images are captured using position-based triggering which uses stage position signals to synchronize with the camera while the sample moves between points of interest. This eliminates the need for repeated start-stop motion and significantly improves scanning efficiency.
However, obtaining clear images of a moving sample requires more than a standard positioning stage: motion stability, velocity control and system integration are all critical to success. The system also scans specific areas of each sample, making repeatability and position accuracy a core requirement.
The solution: customized linear motor stage with control electronics
A team of engineers from Prior worked with the customer to develop a complete motion platform precisely customized for integration into the OEM instrument.
The system included:
• Custom mechanical integration into the instrument
• Application-specific stage mounting and sample handling features
• Encoder-based trigger: stage position is measured in real time, reading the encoder output to trigger the camera as soon as the stage reaches position. This method is more accurate, with less communications overhead, than non-real time trigger methods.
• Motion tuning and optimization to achieve stable constant-velocity performance
• Collaboration with the customer to integrate both the stage and control architecture into the final instrument
In addition to the initial development work, Prior supported the transition to production through design refinement, manufacturing optimization and long-term lifecycle management and support.
The result
The customized solution enables reliable on-the-fly image capture, allowing the system to acquire more images in a shorter time while maintaining motion performance and repeatability.
Using a linear motor, rather than a ballscrew, ensured the consistent speed profile, smoother start and stop performance that was essential for this application. By combining precision mechanics, motion control expertise, and application-specific customization, Prior helped the customer increase system throughput while simplifying integration into a commercial instrument.
Interested in learning more about Prior’s services and support for OEMs? Contact us today.
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