Details of construction

The basic innovation with Aida is to replace the narrow CCD array by a 24x36 mm sensor. However, more modifications have been made, eliminating some other sources of error in the classical design. Following suggestions by Thomas Laue, the inventor of interference optics, the light source has been redesigned, as have some details of the periscope.

Actually, the total light path has been recalculated, using the maximum surface available on the camera, thus increasing the magnification factor from 1.7 to 2.1. Consequently, the projection tube has become longer, and one mirror has been spared.

For multiplexing the laser, an independent control unit, the omega device, has been developed. The entire system has been accomodated in a BeckmanCouter preparative centrifuge as least invasively as possible. The centrifuge electronics have remained untouched but for one cable connection necessary to collect the rotor's pulses from the hall pickup sensor. Neither the instrument itself nor its electronics or firmware have been tampered with – Aida is a totally independent assembly inside the hosting centrifuge.