Foldscope: Origami-Based Paper Microscope (original) (raw)

ADS

;

• Clements, James ;
• Prakash, Manu

Abstract

Here we describe an ultra-low-cost origami-based approach for large-scale manufacturing of microscopes, specifically demonstrating brightfield, darkfield, and fluorescence microscopes. Merging principles of optical design with origami enables high-volume fabrication of microscopes from 2D media. Flexure mechanisms created via folding enable a flat compact design. Structural loops in folded paper provide kinematic constraints as a means for passive self-alignment. This light, rugged instrument can survive harsh field conditions while providing a diversity of imaging capabilities, thus serving wide-ranging applications for cost-effective, portable microscopes in science and education.

Publication:

PLoS ONE

Pub Date:

June 2014

DOI:

10.1371/journal.pone.0098781

10.48550/arXiv.1403.1211

arXiv:

arXiv:1403.1211

Bibcode:

2014PLoSO...998781C

Keywords:

• Physics - Optics;
• Physics - Physics Education;
• Physics - Popular Physics

E-Print:

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0098781