Democratizing Optical Tweezers: CAD Innovations for a Cost-Effective, 3D Printable Design of an Inverted Microscope with Laser Path Integration

Optical tweezers, a revolutionary tool in the field of biophysics and nanotechnology, have enabled precise manipulation and study of microscopic objects using focused laser beams. Traditionally, constructing optical tweezers has been a cost-prohibitive endeavor for smaller universities and high schools, costing at least $20,000 and requiring intricate optical setups and custom-built components. These barriers have limited its use to universities and research laboratories. However, with advancements in additive manufacturing technologies, particularly 3D printing, a promising opportunity now exists to democratize the fabrication of optical tweezers. The OpenFlexure Project develops and provides open-source 3D print files for high-precision mechanical positioning systems for microscopes and micromanipulators. The goal of our project is to innovate on OpenFlexure's Low-cost inverted microscope design allowing for optical tweezing capabilities. This presentation will discuss the design of optical component housing, and additional updates to the existing CAD files to allow for the guidance of the laser beam path into the microscope and the beam path out for data acquisition. With this project, we plan to develop an open-source and cost-effective 3D printable optical tweezing setup that enables students around the world to develop essential hands-on research skills that are applicable in the fields of optics and biophysics.