Development of PC controlled laser manipulation system with image processing functions

摘要

Laser manipulation is an important technique suitable for controlling objects in liquid at length scales ranging from sub-micrometers to micrometers. However, the use of this technique by itself is not enough to dexterously or automatically manipulate objects. In this article we propose a concept for automated non-contact micro-manipulation combined with laser manipulation and advanced control system techniques, and describe the configuration of a developed system, i.e. a three-beam laser trapping system with excellent user-interfaces, real-time image processing functions and a micro-laser ablation beam. We also show the results of several demonstrations; namely the arrangement of metallic particles, the manipulation of a non-spherical object, the laser perforation of a cell, and the automated selection and transportation of colored micro beads.