Automated Tail Flick Monitor

The Automated Tail Flick Monitor is a compact, all-in-one system engineered for rapid, precise assessment of thermal nociceptive responses in laboratory animals. Designed for high-throughput studies, the instrument integrates a durable fast-acting heater, proprietary optical detection module, high-speed timer, and precision controls within a single enclosure beneath a removable, easy-to-clean animal platform.

Operation is straightforward: after positioning the subject’s tail, the user initiates a trial using either the front panel or remote start switch. The microprocessor-controlled heater and timer activate simultaneously, while redundant photobeams continuously monitor tail position. Tail movement is detected regardless of direction ensuring accurate capture of reflex responses.

Response latency is displayed in millisecond intervals on the integrated digital indicator. Upon detection of a tail flick, the heater automatically shuts off to protect the subject. A built-in safety feature also terminates heating after 20 seconds if no response occurs. Heater output current can be precisely adjusted via a front-panel dial with digital readout, enabling consistent stimulus delivery across trials.

The system supports both stand-alone operation and PC control. Integrated plug-and-play high-speed USB communication and included Windows 7/10/11 software allow automated recording of response times, subject identifiers, and user-defined variables directly to CSV files for seamless analysis in standard statistical software.

With millisecond accuracy, redundant detection, flexible operation modes, and easy maintenance, the Automated Tail Flick Monitor provides dependable, repeatable measurements for pain research, pharmacology, and neuroscience applications.