Abstract

Advances to the state-of-the-art in fields like biology and material science often stand on the foundation of improved imaging. Here a low-cost Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) housing and distance measurement system was designed, fabricated, and tested. The instrument was developed around an Optical Pickup Unit (OPU) and designed for use as part of a high-speed AFM system. A structure to align the OPU with the probe holder was designed to ensure the beam of the OPU is positioned above the probe in addition to accommodating space, manufacturability, and cost constraints by using cost effective components. The designs were fabricated and assembled before being tested for accuracy and reliability. The results yielded promising characteristics for the prototype demonstrating the capability of measuring 12.5 nanometers with the likelihood of further decreases with the implementation of proper noise isolation.

Advisor

Robert Sleezer

Committee Member

Rebecca Bates

Committee Member

Jacob Swanson

Date of Degree

2021

Language

english

Document Type

Thesis

Program

Integrated Engineering

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE)

Department

Integrated Engineering

College

Science, Engineering and Technology

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