Mightex Polygon Series
The Working Principle of DMD Driven Light Pattern Generation
Mightex polygon light pattern projectors use state-of-the-art digital micromirror device (DMD) technology to enable simultaneous illumination of multiple geometrically precise target regions in a sample – either through the lens of a microscope or by using the unique Mightex fiber microscope systems of the OASIS series.
Each of the DMD’s nearly one million micro-mirrors can be individually addressed at a temporal resolution of 6.6 kHz, switching between 'ON' and 'OFF' states (± ~12° deflection). This allows the generation of precisely defined spatial and temporal light reflection patterns, which are projected onto the sample via the objective lens. The resulting light pattern exhibits exceptional homogeneity within its active area and delivers unmatched light–dark contrast at its edges – a hallmark of DMD-based pattern generation. The generated light pattern is coupled into the infinity path of any microscope, and delivered to the probe through the objective.
Mightex Polygon 1000 Series
The use of standard light coupling systems (3 mm LLG or SMA ports) in all Polygon models means that both Mightex and proprietary LED or laser light sources can be easily coupled into the system. If the requirements for a light source change during the course of the experiment, the Polygons can also be converted at any time (the system must be sent in for this). Here, too, Mightex proves to be extremely flexible and user-friendly in technical detail. With two different front tube options, each system offers a choice between higher spatial resolution or intensity and a larger projection area, should either of these factors be limiting for an experiment.
Polygon 1000-G
Standard 3 mm liquid lightguide input for any LED-based application.
Spectral range: 350–1000 nm.
Polygon 1000-DL
Standard FC/PC fiber input for any Laser-based application.
Spectral range: 400–1000 nm
Polygon 1000-DI
The model 'DI' (Dual Input) accepts both, 3 mm liquid lightguides for LED lightsources and standard FC/PC optical fiber connectors for laser applications.
Spectral range: 400–1000 nm
Polygon 1000-UHC
Ultra High Contrast (1:10.000.000 dark/light ratio) and a larger dynamic range, i.e. for demanding applications on Retina, accepts FC/PC fibers.
Spectral range: 400–1000 nm
Fields of Application
With over 700 systems sold and more than » 150 publications, Mightex Systems is the global market leader for light pattern projection systems. You can see an overview of the fields of application for this technology here:
Optogenetics
The discovery of light-switchable ion channels, transporters, and cytoplasmic enzymes has profoundly transformed modern life sciences. By simply illuminating genetically engineered cells in 2D or 3D tissues, or even whole organs with light of defined wavelength and intensity, diverse cellular processes can be precisely controlled, orchestrated and distinctly monitored – without any direct mechanical or chemical interference. This approach followed upon by spatiotemporal resolved light pattern projection continues to drive an extraordinary expansion of both fundamental and applied knowledge, particularly within the field of neurophysiology.
Photopharmacology
A growing repertoire of synthetic, highly bioactive molecules achieves functional activation upon illumination with light of defined wavelength and energy. Through precise spatial and temporal control and orchestration of these photo isomerizing compounds’ active forms in specific cell types or tissues, researchers can dissect and understand fundamental pharmacological and signaling interdependencies and signaling cascades. Local compound activation by light is also a basis for research on systemic therapeutic approaches in order to minimize off-target effects.
Local Compound Uncaging
Complementing the use of photoisomerizing compounds in photopharmacology, so-called 'uncaging' strategies employ light energy to remove protective or 'caging' groups around bioactive molecules, thereby enabling highly localized activation and on-site delivery of bioactive compounds. This approach has facilitated the precise administration of ligands, second messengers, neurotransmitters, and even nucleic acids – such as primers for cell-specific gene expression – to a defined and restricted population of cells. Such a spatially resolved compound release strategy represents a powerful and versatile expansion of the molecular toolkit available to contemporary pharmacological research.
Photocatalytic Crosslinking of Biopolymers
By incorporating distinct molecular sequences into (bio)polymers, applied UV light pulses can induce the transient or permanent formation of robust molecular crosslinks. When realized in a spatially resolved manner, this approach allows precise modulation or arrest of cellular processes, such as protein–protein interactions, which can subsequently be analyzed in a 'frozen' state. Beyond cellular applications, spatially defined UV-crosslinking also enables patterned assembly of selected proteins on surfaces and extends to non-biological contexts, making it a versatile and powerful tool for both life sciences and materials research.
Optoelectronic Tweezers (OET)
Optoelectronic tweezers have emerged as a highly effective tool for precise, contact-free micro-manipulation and locomotion of small particles. OETs enable contact free control of movement solely through dielectric interaction with polar particles and the electromagnetic field of a moving light beam. Applications range from the quantitative interaction force study to the immobilization or translocation of both biological and non-biological particles, and extend to the operaton of light driven molecular robots, valves and micromachines.
More Examples of Applications
There is a wide field of applications for illuminated patterns. Find more fascinating and inspiring applications here:
Integration Into Existing Microscopes from Renowned Manufacturers
Since the light pattern generated by the Polygon’s DMD exits its front tube as a perfectly collimated beam, integration into the microscope happens straightforward via the infinity port using specially designed and precisely manufactured adapter kits (to preserve any existing illumination at that port, Mightex also offers a variety of port-expanding options). Adapter sets are available for upright and inverted microscopes covering nearly all commercially available types and models. Additionally, C-mount adapters (e.g., for accessing through a camera port) or substage solutions are offered for setups that are lacking free ports.
Integration into Complex Experimental Setups with PolyEcho
Mightex’s PolyEcho digital-analog I/O interfaces connect to a PC via USB and enable full logical integration of the patterned light stimulation device into complex electrophysiological, behavioral, or imaging setups. Digital and analog channels can be intuitively addressed, individually configured and logically grouped as needed. Connections to peripheral devices are made via standard BNC connectors, and even feedback loops can be easily implemented including external triggers.
The PolyEcho provides versatile and comprehensive control over sophisticated experimental setups. Two models of the PolyEcho are currently available:
PolyEcho 4-Channel
(PEC-CM04-U)
4 channels with 4 TTL inputs,
4 TTL outputs and 4 analog output
PolyEcho 12-Channel
(PEC-CM12-U)
12 channels with 12 TTL inputs,
12 TTL outputs and 8 analog outputs
Each TTL input can be programmed to control any combination of TTL & analog outputs. The trigger delay is less than 20μs – ideal for fast closed-loop applications.
Light Pattern Generation and Projection with Intuitive Software
Integrating the polygon into a microscope setup is usually easy and does not restrict the original functionality of the microscope. The intuitive PolyScan4 software seamlessly and intuitively integrates the light pattern projectors into a wide range of experimental questions and setup configurations. Creating a free light stimulation pattern in the software is very easy: the desired light patterns can be drawn directly onto the underlying camera image with the mouse pointer, and the areas drawn in this way can be exposed to the sample with a click (or an external trigger signal). Light gradients, rasterized patterns, complex image files, or even video sequences can also be projected onto the sample through the microscope's optics.
The proprietary software, which is provided free of charge to academic users, offers a simple and intuitive user interface for controlling all functions and for experimental integration of the polygon. It also enables control of additional peripheral devices such as cameras, light sources, or other devices, for example for targeted behavior observation, which can be controlled synchronously via TTL.
We’re Happy to Assist!
One of the biggest advantages of the Mightex portfolio is its modularity, flexibility, and the interchangeability of all components. This makes these systems a future-proof, economically beneficial, and above all intelligent and scalable investment for your laboratory. However, implementation in an individual setup requires in-depth product knowledge and careful selection of the necessary mechanical and optical components. We are happy to support you in configuring your setup, taking your requirements and applications into account, and ensure that everything works seamlessly in the end.
In addition, we are an established, independent supplier of high-performance LED light sources from leading manufacturers and are happy to offer attractive bundle solutions – always with an objective focus on providing the best technical solution while optimally tailoring it to your specific application in terms of cost-effectiveness.