Microscope Enclosure for Temperature Regulation and Light Isolation

Light isolation and temperature regulation are often required for microscopic imaging. Commercial enclosures are available to satisfy these requirements, but they are often not flexible to the variety of custom systems found in research laboratories. We present the design for an affordable enclosure which utilizes aluminum t-slot profiles to support opaque expanded PVC panels. Temperature is regulated by exchanging the enclosure air with an external heater. In addition, we demonstrate baffles integrated into the enclosure improve temperature uniformity. Example designs for both upright and inverted microscopes are given, providing a starting point for creating a system-specific custom enclosure.