Custom imaging products, sensors and software for low light level applications.
Advancing Combustion Research with HiCATT: Lambert Instruments Technology Featured in Tohoku University Study
At Lambert Instruments, we’re proud to see our HiCATT intensified camera system at the heart of innovative combustion research conducted by Tohoku University. This groundbreaking study pushes the boundaries of predictive combustion modeling by integrating advanced data assimilation (DA) techniques with high-speed imaging—paving the way for more accurate engine simulations and energy applications.
Research Focus: Improving Spray Penetration and Ignition Delay Simulations
The research team investigated how to improve spray penetration dynamics and combustion ignition delay predictions in engine simulations. Traditionally, these simulations rely on Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations, which can struggle with accuracy due to physical assumptions and variability in combustion behavior.
To address this, the scientists applied:
Data assimilation techniques
Schlieren imaging
Ensemble Square Root Filters (EnSRF)
Two-component velocity distribution models
What makes their work truly innovative is that they achieved high precision without modifying the core governing equations—instead, they enhanced the data input using advanced statistical methods. One of the most notable breakthroughs was how the team tackled the variability in ignition delay time even under identical conditions.
The HiCATT’s Role: High-Speed, High-Resolution Imaging
Our HiCATT intensified camera system played a crucial role in capturing the high-speed events within the combustion process. By enabling *OH chemiluminescence imaging at 30,000 frames per second (fps)**, HiCATT provided the temporal resolution needed to observe ignition events in fine detail.
Paired with a high-speed CMOS camera, the HiCATT intensifier delivered:
Enhanced sensitivity to low-light emissions (e.g., OH* radicals)
Crisp, high-speed visualization of ignition fronts
Quantitative data to feed into simulation models
This precision imaging allowed the researchers to accurately quantify ignition delay time, reinforcing the model’s reliability and strengthening the foundation for future combustion diagnostics.
Lambert Instruments Exhibiting at Focus on Microscopy 2025
We’re thrilled to share that Lambert Instruments will be exhibiting at Focus on Microscopy 2025, one of the premier events for innovation and collaboration in the field of microscopy.
📅 Dates: April 13–16, 2025 📍 Location: National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei City
This annual conference—running since 1988—brings together researchers, engineers, and industry professionals from around the world to explore cutting-edge developments in optical microscopy and its applications across biology, medicine, and material sciences.
At FOM2025, we’ll be showcasing our latest advanced imaging solutions, designed to support high-speed, high-sensitivity scientific imaging. Whether you’re focused on fluorescence lifetime imaging, quantitative microscopy, or anything in between, our team is excited to discuss how our technology can take your research to the next level.
Want to connect with us at the event? Drop us a message at sales@lambertinstruments.com to schedule a meeting, or simply swing by our booth—we’d love to meet you and hear about your work!
We look forward to seeing you in Taipei!
Lambert Instruments Delivers LIFA vTAU Camera by Bike to the University of Groningen
At Lambert Instruments, innovation doesn’t stop at technology—it extends to how we interact with our community and the planet. Today, we took a meaningful step in combining scientific innovation with sustainability by delivering one of our LIFA vTAU cameras to the University of Groningen—by bike!
Yes, you read that right. In an effort to reduce our carbon footprint and promote environmentally conscious practices, we made this local delivery in the most eco-friendly way possible.
Sustainability Meets Science
While riding a bike may seem like a small gesture, it reflects a bigger part of who we are. As a company committed to supporting scientific research, we also recognize the importance of preserving the world we live in. That’s why we’re exploring ways to make our operations greener—one ride at a time.
Whether it’s reducing packaging waste, improving energy efficiency, or choosing sustainable transport, we believe small choices can lead to big change.
What is the LIFA vTAU?
The LIFA vTAU is our latest innovation in fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). Built around a high-performance camera system, it’s optimized for fast, quantitative FLIM, especially in live-cell imaging applications.
Key features of the LIFA vTAU:
High-speed time-gated imaging
Designed for dynamic biological processes
Easy integration with widefield microscopes
Ideal for calcium signaling, FRET, and protein interaction studies
We’re proud to support researchers at the Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, a world-class institution that continues to push boundaries in biomedical and life sciences research. By equipping them with advanced imaging tools like the LIFA vTAU, we’re enabling the next wave of discovery in areas like cell signaling, molecular biology, and disease research.
Innovation Is a Journey—Why Not Bike It?
Delivering high-end scientific equipment might not typically involve a bicycle—but at Lambert Instruments, we believe that how we do things matters just as much as what we do. Every choice is an opportunity to reflect our values: precision, innovation, and sustainability.
How LIFA FLIM Advances Mitochondrial Research: A Spotlight on Scientific Discovery
Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging (FLIM) is revolutionising the way researchers study cellular processes, and at Lambert Instruments, we’re proud to see our LIFA FLIM system at the forefront of scientific research.
In a recent study, researchers leveraged the LIFA FLIM system to investigate mitochondrial calcium dynamics, uncovering how disruptions in key proteins affect mitochondrial health. Their findings shed light on the role of CLPB, a crucial protein disaggregase, in maintaining proper mitochondrial calcium uptake and fusion behavior—an important step toward better understanding diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
Study Overview: Using FLIM to Measure Mitochondrial Ca²⁺
The study focused on measuring the fluorescence lifetime of the mitochondrial Ca²⁺ probe mtRCaMP using our LIFA FLIM system. By doing so, scientists were able to visualize how the loss of CLPB affects mitochondrial calcium uptake, revealing significant alterations in mitochondrial fusion dynamics.
This kind of time-resolved fluorescence imaging provides researchers with highly detailed insights into live-cell interactions—something that’s difficult to achieve with traditional imaging techniques.
The Role of CLPB in Mitochondrial Health
CLPB plays a critical role in ensuring mitochondrial integrity by preventing protein aggregation. The study’s findings suggest that when CLPB is absent or dysfunctional, mitochondria struggle to manage calcium signaling effectively—potentially leading to cellular stress or disease.
Such discoveries highlight how essential tools like LIFA FLIM are in uncovering the molecular mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disorders, and other conditions linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
LIFA FLIM: Fast, High-Precision Imaging for Breakthrough Science
With its high-speed data acquisition, precision lifetime measurements, and seamless integration into fluorescence microscopes, our LIFA FLIM system is helping researchers push the boundaries of cellular imaging and molecular biology.
Whether studying calcium signaling, protein-protein interactions, or metabolic processes, FLIM provides the quantitative insights necessary for groundbreaking discoveries.
Acknowledging the Researchers
We’d like to give a big shout-out to the talented team behind this research: Benjamin Cartes Saavedra, Donato D’Angelo, and Victor Hugo Sanchez-Vazquez.
Their work continues to inspire us and demonstrates the powerful impact of scientific imaging technology in real-world applications.
Unveiling EGFR-HER2 Transactivation with Advanced FLIM-FRET Techniques
In a groundbreaking study led by László Ujlaky-Nagy and Szollosi Janos from the Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology at the University of Debrecen, researchers have explored the fascinating world of EGFR-HER2 transactivation. By employing cutting-edge FLIM-FRET (Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy – Förster Resonance Energy Transfer) techniques, they gained deeper insights into the real-time molecular interactions between these two key receptors.
Advanced FLIM-FRET Technology for Real-Time Insights To capture these intricate interactions in live cells, the research team utilized the LIFA FLIM system from Lambert Instruments. This advanced system features a modulated Multi-LED light source and the sophisticated LI-FLIM 1.1.24 analysis software, providing unmatched precision in fluorescence lifetime measurements.
Mounted on an Olympus IX81 microscope, the LIFA FLIM system allowed for the acquisition of real-time frequency-domain FLIM-FRET data, enabling the team to observe dynamic molecular processes as they unfolded. This powerful setup provides invaluable information about protein interactions in their native environments, offering a clearer picture of cellular mechanisms at play.
The Role of EGFR-HER2 Transactivation in Cellular Signaling EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) and HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) are both critical players in cell signaling, and their interactions are crucial for regulating various cellular functions. The transactivation between these two receptors is a key process in many biological activities, including cell growth, differentiation, and survival.
Understanding how these receptors interact can help identify potential therapeutic targets for diseases like cancer, where EGFR and HER2 are often implicated in uncontrolled cell growth. This study, utilizing the LIFA FLIM system, provides vital insights into these complex molecular interactions.
Key Technology Insights The LIFA FLIM system’s capabilities were integral to this research, allowing the team to perform high-resolution, real-time analysis of protein interactions in live cells. The system’s high sensitivity and precision make it an essential tool for studying molecular processes at the level of individual protein interactions, offering researchers an advanced approach to cellular biology.
For more details on the LIFA FLIM system and its capabilities, you can check out the official product page here.
Further Reading To delve deeper into this study and explore the findings of the research team, read the full publication here.
This work represents an exciting advancement in our understanding of cellular signaling and provides a foundation for future research in molecular biology and cancer therapies.
Researchers and imaging professionals, this is your last chance to acquire the HiCAM 5000, an intensified high-speed camera renowned for its ultra-sensitive, high-speed imaging capabilities. With only a limited number of units remaining, this is a last-time buy before the HiCAM 5000 is discontinued.
HiCAM 5000 – Key Features:
✅ Extreme Sensitivity – Detects single photons for ultra-low-light imaging. ✅ High-Speed Performance – Captures up to 5000 fps at 512 x 512 px resolution. ✅ Broad Spectral Sensitivity – Optimized for 375 nm – 875 nm detection. ✅ Internal Memory – Ensures seamless high-speed recordings without external bottlenecks.
The HiCAM 5000 has been trusted by researchers worldwide for plasma physics, combustion research, fluorescence imaging, and flow visualization, making it an essential tool for demanding scientific applications.
Act Now – Before It’s Gone!
This is the final opportunity to secure a HiCAM 5000 before they are no longer available.
Tibidabo Scientific Industries Announces the Acquisition of LLA Instruments
Tibidabo Scientific Industries Announces the Acquisition of LLA Instruments, a company specializing in products that support various applications in the detection and identification of materials.
Berlin, Germany and Dublin, Ireland, 13 Nov 2023– Tibidabo Scientific Industries Ltd (“Tibidabo”), a global leader in highly differentiated technology for scientific research, aerospace, and industrial markets, is pleased to announce the successful acquisition of LLA Instruments (“LLA”), a manufacturer of products that support industrial sorting, quality control, and various applications in Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (AES) and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS).
“Bringing LLA into the Tibidabo Group enables us to offer a broader range of solutions and services to support the industry’s rapidly growing needs,” stated Paul Murtagh, Chairman & CEO of Tibidabo. “It will also enhance our R&D capabilities in multiple sectors and lead to further technological innovations across our Group.”
LLA Instruments Managing Director, David Mory comments, “Tibidabo aligns with LLA’s long-term vision to diversify our portfolio and strengthen our position in the industry. By joining forces with the Tibidabo group of companies, we aim to leverage their respective strengths and resources to provide an expanded range of high-quality products/services, improved customer experiences, and enhanced value to our stakeholders.”
With its manufacturing and R&D facility in Berlin, Germany, LLA uses Near Infrared (NIR) measurement technology with powerful analysis and classification software that aids in the detection and identification of different materials at industrial scale. From recycle sorting, and mineral and elemental analysis to food and feed, functional coating, and refuse-derived fuel analysis, LLA brings a diverse range of products that are instrumental in identifying high-value raw materials, including precious metals, that can be recovered, thereby reducing the consumption of raw materials, and protecting the environment.
Tibidabo President Viktoriya Baytser commented, “The addition of LLA Instruments brings a new and exciting opportunity into our global portfolio that spans multiple industries and applications. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Tibidabo’s continued growth and commitment to fostering innovation and leveraging new technologies. We are delighted to welcome LLA’s dedicated employees into our growing Tibidabo family, and we look forward to pushing the boundaries of what is possible together.”
About LLA Instruments
Based in Berlin, LLA Instruments was founded in 1993 by physicist Dr. Hartmut Lucht. Initial developments included laser spectroscopy-based measurement systems for applications in biomedicine, environmental technology, and industrial applications; but the company soon pivoted towards establishing the basics, further developing, and marketing automatic sensor-based sorting systems for plastics.
As market leaders in recycling, LLA has become increasingly known across the globe, especially to machine builders for plastics sorting, as a renowned developer, manufacturer, and supplier of imaging spectral analytical measurement technology and hyperspectral cameras.
Tibidabo Scientific Industries is a global leader and supplier of highly differentiated technologies for scientific and medical research, life sciences, agriculture, aerospace, defense and security, and industrial applications. We succeed by helping our customers push boundaries with cutting edge products and solutions that drive innovation for new and existing technologies.
Our collaborative approach and expanding global team enable our customers to make smarter decisions and adopt more effective solutions with ground-breaking technologies. Our philosophy, culture and strategy are guided by a customer, quality, performance, and people-oriented management approach, with a system of continuous improvement at its core.
How Light can be a valuable information carrier for metabolic research
The production and breakdown of proteins takes place in every cell of our body at any time. These proteins are crucial for the functioning of our human body. In most cases this process occurs automatically, but in the case of a disease one would like to understand what may be going wrong in the cell. You can then proceed to developing medication
Quantifying fluorescent afterglow time Since the time of Van Leeuwenhoek, people have been interested in the microscopic world of the cell. Since then, many groundbreaking developments have taken place in microscopy that make it possible to study the processes in the cell in detail. Recently, a new type of scientific camera was added, which makes it possible to quantify very specific light. Lambert Instruments’ LIFA vTAU camera is a so-called FLIM* camera, which makes it possible to determine the persistence of fluorescent light. Fluorescent light (comparable to Glow in the dark) is one of the modern microscopy techniques that are used daily by cell biologists to map various proteins. By using this afterglow time, one can accurately demonstrate whether these proteins are malfunctioning, such as interaction between proteins or transfer of molecules, regulation of energy balance, building of muscle tissue, etc.
Sensitive and easy to use The unique thing about the LIFA vTAU is the unprecedented sensitivity and the ease with which the system can be connected to an existing microscope. Lambert Instruments has more than 20 years of experience with FLIM. Previous systems were limited, among other things, by sensitivity. As you might imagine, light is also needed to obtain fluorescence, but most cells in our body cannot handle light well. Fluorescence is a very weak signal, so the more sensitive the detection, the more accurate and efficient the research can be. With the vTau you can conduct more accurate or faster research with less light.
Automated search for biological processes FLIM is used in most large research institutions, but these are often part of a fixed measuring setup. The vTAU camera, on the other hand, has the great advantage that it is widely applicable. It is a very compact system that can easily be used in various measuring setups, ranging from a simple fluorescent microscope for taking a few measurements to a large-scale automated measuring setup for measuring a large number of samples. The latter in particular offers great potential for developing future diagnostics and medicines for, for example, cancer or metabolic diseases.
With the introduction of the vTAU, Lambert Instruments is taking a new step forward in making FLIM even more accessible to the medical world, thus contributing to improving metabolic research.
Lambert Instruments is an innovative company in the city of Groningen, where a team of 10 engineers, including interns from the University of Groningen and Hanze University of Applied Sciences, has been working for 30 years on developing high-tech camera systems for global applications in biology, physics and materials science.
Lambert Instruments launches LIFA vTAU – A camera-based system for fast fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM)
Lambert Instruments BV, launches LIFA vTAU – A camera-based system for fast fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM)
Groningen, Netherlands, October 5, 2023, Lambert Instrument’s, a leading developer of advanced imaging solutions, is thrilled to announce the release of LIFA vTAU, a camera-based system designed to transform Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM), particularly for live cell applications. LIFA vTAU, featuring the versatile SPAD detector, is set to redefine the world of microscopy with near instantaneous acquisition of lifetime images at unprecedented frame rates and high accuracy.
LIFA vTAU represents a significant leap forward in FLIM technology. Whether for studying dynamic cellular processes, molecular interactions, or biological phenomena, LIFA vTAU is engineered to meet FLIM application needs. The camera is designed to seamlessly integrate with any brand of fluorescence microscope and the dedicated LIFA software records the images and analyses the data instantly, offering researchers a comprehensive FLIM solution. From sample preparation to data analysis, this system streamlines the entire imaging process, for improved efficiency and accessibility.
“We’re thrilled to introduce LIFA vTAU. This innovative FLIM solution represents a significant milestone in live cell imaging technology”, stated Jeroen Wehmeijer, General Manager of Lambert Instruments. “With its unparalleled speed, precision, and versatility, LIFA vTAU empowers researchers to delve deeper into the world of live cell dynamics and explore the intricacies of biological processes. We believe this product will pave the way for ground-breaking discoveries and advancements in the field of microscopy.”
Equipped with an ultra-high sensitive SPAD detector featuring micro exposures for dynamic range optimization, LIFA vTAU can capture up to an astonishing 100 lifetime images per second, even in challenging lighting conditions.
LIFA vTAU enables a wide range of applications, from molecular interactions and protein conformation to biosensors, oxygen imaging, and more, making it a versatile solution for diverse scientific and industrial needs.
For more information about LIFA vTAU and its capabilities, please visit https://flim.camera/
About Lambert Instruments
Lambert Instruments is dedicated to development, production, and worldwide sales of products for time resolved imaging at challenging light levels enabling users to reveal previously unseen phenomena. Together with our software, our products provide a possibility to record fast events at low-light conditions. It is our mission to reimagine detection and offer complete solutions to challenging imaging problems.