An early prototype of the HoloZcan system has been developed as a laboratory tool. It can be used for experiments and the building of background databases. The design and optimization of an advanced prototype has also been carried out, which will be deployed at the Pasteur Institute in February 2023. Additionally, the sampler subsystem has been extensively tested and integration between the sampler and the imaging system is currently in progress. The project is also working on developing a conceptual design for a smaller and more affordable/fieldable version of the detection system. This design will be developed during the remainder of the project.
The HoloZcan project has made progress in developing algorithms for the detection system, constantly updating and improving them through the analysis of state-of-the-art techniques for holographic image processing. The focus of the algorithm development has been on digital holographic image reconstruction, detection, and classification. The project team has also carried out simulations of holograms in order to have a realistic data set to investigate the representation of holographic features, train models, assist in system design and optimization and compare different configuration parameters.
The project has also established an iterative, test-driven approach since the beginning of the project to connect the complex workflows between the digital holographic microscope (DHM) prototype development, data analysis algorithm development, data collection and demonstration. The project team has also put significant effort into building an interdisciplinary bridge between experts from various fields such as microbiology, hardware engineering, database building, data analysis and communication experts. This approach allows for a comprehensive approach to the project, ensuring that all aspects are properly addressed and integrated.