Is it possible to use labview to identify cells, move the stage to centre a cell, and perform a function on that cell and move onto the next cell?

[mimon23]

So I am a biologist with an engineering background. Completely new to this, but first I want to know is this possible.

The program i currently have with this microscope application is with labview. I am viewing cells on the screen, and normally i focus on a cell, and focus a small beam on part of the cell.

what i want to do is automate this with one button, but for all cells.

so basically, the system recognises what is the cell, moves the stage to align it with the beam, performs the function and then automatically goes to the next cell in the plane of view.

Do you guys think this is possible, and where should i start.

Really appreciate any helpful suggestions!

[LV_Pro]

The basic answer is yes, this can be done in LabVIEW, similar concept tasks are being done now. It becomes a matter of details, such as, how are the stages currently moved, etc. You would need an X/Y stage with some precision position control, using a controller that ideally has LabVIEW support, the vision package and a suitable camera attached. Then there will need to be a controller for your "beam" device. All doable, with work

So basically you need to inventory what equipment you have, determine what functions they perform, what can they perform (i.e., if not currently automated can they be?) and then look for existing LabVIEW drivers for the identified hardware. There have been a number of vision/target identification programs developed that control stages/positioners. A cool demo at one of the NIWeeks a few years ago ID'd ball bearing size as the flew off a ramp and adjusted a platform to bounce them into the appropriate bin. Demo'd vision, processing, motion control, at pretty high speed.