Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The requested instrument is a unique optical profilometer that can make very accurate measurements of, and visualize in 3D, the shape and texture of engineered surfaces. It is the only such instrument on the market that can perform such measurements using three different technologies (confocal, interferometry, and focus variation), each with their advantages and disadvantages. In contrast to other profilometers that allow measurements on a limited set of surfaces, the 3-in-1 integration of these measurement principles means that measurements can be made on a very wide variety of smooth and rough surfaces that have a wide variety of slopes. *The profilometer, only the second of its kind in Ontario, is urgently needed to support the research programs of eight world-class investigators at three institutions in the greater Toronto area (Ryerson University, University of Toronto, and York University). The equipment will support research that impacts a wide variety of industries including health care, microtechnology, aerospace, automotive, food, protective clothing, and power generation. It includes development of new: (i) bioanalytic chips to diagnose and treat diseases; (ii) micro-sensors and actuators for autofocus and optical image stabilization in miniature cameras; (iii) coatings used to protect wind turbine blades and other components from the impact of air-borne particulates; (iv) lightweight metals for use in aerospace and automotive applications; (v) engineered tissues such as lab-grown cartilage for use in artificial joint replacement; (vi) protective clothing for military and laboratory safety applications; and (vii) methods to manufacture and store chocolate so that it lasts longer and is of highest quality. *These new advances in such a wide variety of applications will ensure that Canadian industry is put at an advantage, generating new jobs and bringing significant health and economic benefits to Canadian society. The students working on these projects under the supervision of the researchers will be amongst the very few to be trained on such a unique instrument and will thus be at an advantage when they seek employment or pursue higher graduate studies upon graduation.