ICEDIG Deliverable D3.4 - State of the art and perspectives on mass imaging of liquid samples

Abstract

The topic of this report is applications of conventional photography and automated imaging of specimens stored in liquids with a special focus on the labels. No automated imaging solutions were found for these types of specimens, which is due to the complexity of this storage type. Specimen imaging by removing it from the container is time-consuming and not applicable for mass-imaging. The main goal of jar and other container imaging is to capture the ‘old' label for subsequent data entry and recording of the container. Imaging labels for data entry and databasing purposes might be achievable in some liquid collections. Distortions, discolouration and cloudiness of the liquid and container can be complicating factors. We recommend a process based approach of record creation with minimal data, combined with label imaging. This can be done rapidly with minimally trained workers. Especially when data entry is partial or includes interpretation, the images provide potential for future use.