Project Description
This project aims to build a customized polarized light microscope system for automated rock texture analysis, advancing beyond traditional methods that are either labor-intensive (U-stage microscopy) or time-consuming (EBSD). Building on our preliminary findings that crystal optical axis orientation can be determined through intensity variations under polarized reflective light during 360-degree rotation, students will develop a fully integrated measurement system. The research objectives include designing and fabricating an automated sample stage with precise tilt and rotation control, design and implementing accurate automated positioning mechanisms for polarizer, analyzer and light source components, as well as developing the control electronics and software interface. Students will engage in hands-on engineering through mechanical design using CAD software, circuit design for stepper motor control and sensor integration, optical system alignment and calibration, and programming automated measurement sequences. Students will work from component selection through system integration and validation testing. The successful development of this automated microscope could transform geological texture analysis, reducing measurement time from days to minutes while maintaining spatial resolution advantages over current methods.
Prerequisites
Preferred but not required: Experience with machine design or circuits design, or experience with MATLAB or Python
Special Comments
Student will have the opportunity to start research as early as winter or spring.
Project Information (subject to change)
Estimated Start Date: 6/01/2026
Estimated End Date: 7/31/2026
Estimated Project Duration: 9 weeks
Maximum Number of Students Sought: 3
Research Location: On campus
Travel Required? No (If “yes”: )
Contact Information: Mengying Liu (email: mliu@wlu.edu)