B-Roll Project
Pinned Specimen Digitization
An automated macro imaging system for pinned entomology specimens. Features a 32.5MP Canon R7, three lenses, three precision stepper motors, multipe lighting options, and a high resolution label scanner. The system is controlled by a teensy microcontroller and custom python architecture running on a tethered PC.
After minimal setup (~1min) the system automatically captures images of a specimen from multiple angles, creates focus stacks using Zerene Stacker, and applies accurate scale bars to each final image. For each specimen, an output folder on the PC is created containing stacked images, scan(s) of the specimen label(s), and relevant collection metadata. For high density scans, these images can be further processed into photo spheres using Garden Gnome's Object2VR.
Rapid Digitization
A range of image density options are available. Imaging can take less than 1 minute or up to several hours depending on the size of the specimen and the selected options. 2-8 minutes per specimen is sufficient for most applications. Listed times include setup and specimen handling.
Minimal Scan
Capture the Label, lateral, and dorsal view. Typically ~2 min.
Standard Scan
Minimal Photo Sphere*
Capture the label and 5-6 primary views. Typically 3-4 min.
Capture the label and 12 point sparse image sphere. Typically 5-7 min.
High Density Photo Sphere*
Capture the label and a high density image sphere. In this case >300 points. 1-8 hours depending on lighting, image quality, and photo density choices. The final image sphere is <2GB of data, but requires 100-500GB of raw images to generate.
*Note: Intermediate Density Spheres Are Possible
Broad Size Range
The system uses three lenses to provide a 5:1 to 1:10 magnification range supporting the vast majority of pinned specimens.
Mitakon 55mm f/2.8 1-5X Macro Lens
Covers 5:1 to 1:1 magnification range for specimens ~ 2mm to ~14mm. The system supports point or double mounted specimens in this range.
Venus Laowa 58mm f/2.8 2X Ultra Macro
Covers 2:1 to 1:5 magnification range for specimens ~7mm to ~70mm
Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS Macro STM Lens
Covers 1:2 to 1:10 magnification range for specimens ~30mm to ~150mm.