This paper describes the calibration of a 2D vision system utilizing a high-precision robot that moves accurately along the z-axis. To achieve this, a one-axis high-precision robot was designed and manufactured, achieving a minimum travel distance of 0.007 μm during testing. The 2D vision system comprised an RGB camera, an LVDT sensor, and a laser sensor for distance measurement. Additionally, a subpixel-based algorithm was developed for the calibration and size measurement of the system. Following the calibration process with the high-precision robot, the size error was found to be within ±0.1 mm when using the LVDT sensor and ±0.2 mm with the laser sensor. Thus, the 2D vision system and calibration algorithm presented in this paper are deemed suitable for accurate object measurement by robots.
Bioengineered skeletal muscle constructs that replicate the architectural, metabolic, and contractile characteristics of native tissue are becoming essential platforms for disease modeling and advancing regenerative medicine. The creation of these constructs relies heavily on cell-mediated gel compaction, a crucial process for facilitating tissue maturation. To ensure myotube alignment, muscle cell-laden hydrogels are typically embedded in 3D-printed molds with anchor structures. However, structural detachment or rupture often occurs during culture, which undermines the stability and functional differentiation of the engineered tissue. To address these challenges, we developed an improved anchor-type mold through a series of structural optimizations. We first compared two anchor geometries—linear and mushroom-shaped pillars—within rectangular frames, finding that the mushroom-shaped design provided better structural retention. However, the rectangular frames led to excessive gel compaction, causing detachment and disrupting cellular alignment, especially in central regions. To alleviate these issues, we introduced a dumbbell-shaped mold with a narrowed midsection to better distribute mechanical stress. This new mold effectively promoted aligned myotube formation, long-term construct maintenance, and functional maturation. Our findings underscore the benefits of structurally optimized molds in creating stable engineered muscle, with significant implications for regenerative therapies and preclinical testing platforms.