Ultrathin slicing machine

Abstract

An ultra-thin microtome (100, 1202) chuck includes a mounting portion (204) having mating surfaces (1406, 1606) operable to removably attach the mounting portion (204) to a sample (116, 126) slicing device (1100), and electrical contacts operable to electrically connect the mounting portion (204) to a power source; a sample receiving portion (202, 204, 210) coupled to the mounting portion (204), the sample receiving portion (202, 204, 210) having a sample receiving surface (206) sized to receive a sample (116, 126); a light source (1120, 116) coupled to the sample receiving portion (202, 204, 210), the light source (1120, 116) being operable to emit light from the sample receiving surface (206) and through a sample (116, 126) positioned along the sample receiving surface (206); and a circuit (516, 616) that electrically connects the light source (1120, 116) to the electrical contacts of the mounting portion (204).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application number 201780083188.2, application date November 14, 2017, and invention title "Ultra-thin Slicer". Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. non-provisional application No. 15 / 811,476, filed November 13, 2017; U.S. non-provisional application No. 15 / 811,474, filed November 13, 2017; U.S. non-provisional application No. 15 / 811,464, filed November 13, 2017; and U.S. non-provisional application No. 15 / 811,447, filed November 13, 2017, which all claim priority to U.S. provisional application No. 62 / 421,755, filed November 14, 2016, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention relate to microtome or other tissue sample sectioning apparatus for producing sample sections. Specifically, some embodiments relate to microtome or other tissue sample sectioning apparatus having a light source, a generator, a built-in accessory memory, an accessory tray, a paraffin removal assembly, and / or an alarm. Background Technology

[0004] Histology is the science or discipline related to the preparation of tissue specimens for examination or analysis. Examination or analysis can be at the cellular level, chemical composition, tissue morphology or composition, or other tissue characteristics.

[0005] In histology, tissue samples can be prepared for sectioning using an ultramicrotome or other sample sectioning apparatus. Typically, tissues are dried or dehydrated by removing most or almost all of the water from them, for example, by exposing the tissue to one or more dehydrating agents. After dehydration, the dehydrating agent can be removed, and then an embedding agent (e.g., a wax with added plasticizers) can be introduced or infiltrated into the dehydrated tissue. Water removal and embedding agent infiltration can preserve tissue samples for more than ten (10) years, and an ultramicrotome can be used to help cut the tissue into thin sections.

[0006] Embedding can then be performed on the tissue. During embedding, the tissue, which has been dehydrated and infiltrated with an embedding agent, can be embedded in a block using a variety of waxes, polymers, or another embedding medium. Typically, the dehydrated and wax-infiltrated tissue can be placed in a mold and / or cassette, and molten wax can be dispensed onto the tissue until the mold is filled with wax, after which the wax can be cooled and hardened. Embedding tissue in a wax block can help provide additional support during the cutting or sectioning of tissue samples using an ultramicrotome.

[0007] Ultramicrotome is used to cut sections of thin slides or tissue samples. Various different types of ultramicrotome are known in the art. Representative types include, for example, slide, rotary, vibratory, saw, and laser ultramicrotome. Ultramicrotome can be manual or automatic. Automatic ultramicrotome may include a motorized or drive system to drive or automate the cutting motion between the sample to be sectioned and the cutting mechanism used for sectioning. Manual ultramicrotome may rely on the rotation of a handwheel to drive the cutting motion. It should be understood that ultramicrotome can be used for purposes other than histology alone, and ultramicrotome can be used for samples other than those containing embedded tissue only. Summary of the Invention

[0008] During tissue sectioning operations, it is desirable to illuminate the paraffin block to be sectioned to, for example, help the user align the block and / or highlight certain features of the sample itself. Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, a light source (e.g., one or more LEDs) is mounted within a holder for the paraffin block (in which biological tissue may be embedded) to illuminate the back side of the block. Illuminating the back side illuminates the entire block, thereby facilitating more precise sectioning and alignment, as well as illumination / highlighting of the biological tissue within. Alternatively, the light source may be positioned within one side of the holder, such that light enters one side of the block and illuminates it from the side. Furthermore, in cases where the light source comprises multiple LEDs of different colors (e.g., red, green, blue, and white), the color of the light can be selected by individual combinations of turning red, green, blue, and / or white LEDs on / off. Moreover, the system can not only provide complete on / off LED control but may also include intensity control for each red, green, blue, and / or white element LED to allow for brightness and wide color combination control.

[0009] More specifically, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to an ultramicrotome chuck having a mounting portion having a mating surface operable to detachably attach the mounting portion to a sample slicing apparatus, and electrical contacts operable to electrically connect the mounting portion to a power source. The chuck further includes: a sample receiving portion coupled to the mounting portion, the sample receiving portion having a sample receiving surface sized to receive a sample; a light source coupled to the sample receiving portion, operable to emit light from the sample receiving surface and through a sample positioned along the sample receiving surface; and circuitry for electrically connecting the light source to the electrical contacts of the mounting portion. In some embodiments, the light source may include a light-emitting diode (LED). For example, the light source may be a light-emitting diode (LED) chip including a plurality of LEDs, and the LED chip is mounted to the sample receiving portion. The light source may be positioned within a cavity of the sample receiving portion, and the cavity may have a depth substantially the same as the thickness of the light source. The light source may be mounted to the sample receiving surface such that the light source is positioned between the sample positioned along the sample receiving surface and the sample receiving surface. In some embodiments, a controller operable to modify at least one of the brightness or wavelength of the light emitted by the light source is also provided. The controller can modify either the brightness or wavelength of the light based on the characteristics of the sample. The circuit can be a flexible circuit installed between the mounting portion and the sample receiving portion. The electrical contacts can be a first electrical contact, and the sample slicing device can be a second electrical contact electrically connected to a power source. In some cases, when the mounting portion is attached to the sample slicing device, the first and second electrical contacts are in contact with each other, and the light source is electrically connected to a power source. The sample slicing device may include a manual microtome, and the power source includes current manually generated by rotating a handwheel of the sample slicing device.

[0010] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an ultramicrotome comprising: a cutting mechanism operable to cut sections from a sample; a sample holder operable to hold the sample and movable relative to the cutting mechanism, the sample holder having a first side and a second side, the first side facing the cutting mechanism and sized to receive the sample; and a light source coupled to the sample holder, wherein the light source includes a light-emitting diode (LED) chip operable to emit light from the first side of the sample holder and through the sample located on the first side. In some aspects, the LED chip is operable to emit light at a first brightness and a second brightness different from the first brightness. In some cases, the LED may be a first LED, and the light source may further include a second LED, and the first LED and the second LED may operate at different wavelengths. The LED may be located on the first side of the sample holder. In some aspects, the ultramicrotome also includes an alarm operable to warn a user that the ultramicrotome is performing a cutting operation.

[0011] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for controlling a light source of an ultramicrotome chuck, comprising: determining characteristics of a sample held by the ultramicrotome chuck, and controlling characteristics of light output from the ultramicrotome chuck based on the characteristics of the sample. The sample may include a biological sample, and the characteristics of the sample include the color, density, or biological components of the biological sample. The light source may include a light-emitting diode (LED), and controlling the characteristics of the light output from the light source includes changing the intensity of the light output from the LED. The sample may include a biological sample embedded in paraffin, and the characteristics of the sample may include the color or density of the paraffin. The sample may include a paraffin-embedded biological sample and a cartridge, and the characteristics of the sample include the color of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the light source may include a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with different wavelengths, and controlling the characteristics of the light output from the light source includes modifying the intensity of one of the LEDs relative to another to achieve a desired light output color.

[0012] In other embodiments, the present invention relates to a manual microtome. A manual microtome does not rely on any kind of power source or generate its own electricity to operate other aspects of the apparatus. Therefore, in one aspect of the invention, the microtome handle or wheel, which is manually rotated to drive the slicing operation, is adapted to facilitate the generation of energy that can be used in real time (e.g., to power a light source during slicing operations) or stored and used by the microtome for other purposes. For example, rotation of the handle can generate energy that can be stored by a capacitor or battery and then used to power other aspects of the microtome.

[0013] More specifically, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a sample slicing apparatus comprising: a cutting mechanism operable to slice a sample; a sample holder operable to move relative to the cutting mechanism, the sample holder having a first side and a second side, the first side facing the cutting mechanism and sized to receive a sample; a light source coupled to the sample holder, wherein the light source is operable to emit light from the first side of the sample holder and through a sample located on the first side; and a generator operable to generate electrical energy for supplying power to the light source. In one aspect, the light source may be a light-emitting diode (LED). The sample holder may include flexible circuitry operable to provide an electrical connection between the light source and the electrical energy generated by the generator. The generator is operable to generate electrical energy by converting mechanical movement of a handwheel used to drive movement of the sample holder into electrical energy for supplying power to the light source. The generator may be operable to supply power to the light source by converting sunlight into electrical energy. For example, the generator may include a solar panel mounted to the housing of an ultramicrotome. The generator may be a piezoelectric generator. The generator may include a stepper motor. The device may also include an energy storage device for storing energy generated by the generator to power the light source and / or controller to control one of the brightness or wavelengths of the light emitted from the light source. The controller may modify the brightness of the light based on characteristics of the sample. For example, the controller may modify the wavelength of the light based on characteristics of the sample. In some cases, the device may include an alarm to warn the user when the device performs a cutting operation. Additionally, a lock operable to lock a handwheel associated with the cutting mechanism may be provided, and in some cases, the light source may be illuminated when the handwheel is locked.

[0014] In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a sample slicing apparatus comprising: a cutting mechanism operable to cut slices from a sample; a sample holder operable to hold the sample; a handwheel operable to move the sample holder relative to the cutting mechanism during a cutting operation; and a generator operable to generate electrical energy to provide power to electronic components.

[0015] The generator may be operable to generate electrical energy by converting the mechanical movement of a handwheel into electrical energy to power electronic components, which may be a light source coupled to the sample holder. The generator may also be operable to generate electrical energy by converting sunlight into electrical energy to power electronic components, which may also be a light source coupled to the sample holder. The device may further include an energy storage device for storing the energy generated by the generator for use by the electronic components, which may also be a light source coupled to the sample holder. The electronic components may include a light source operable to emit light from the sample holder and through the sample on the sample holder, and the light source may be positioned between the sample holding surface of the sample holder and the sample. The electronic components may include a light-emitting diode (LED) operable to emit light from the sample holder and through the sample on the sample holder, and one of the light intensity or color may be modified. In some embodiments, the electronic components may be an alarm operable to indicate to the user whether a cutting operation is being performed. The electronic components may be a light-emitting diode (LED) chip, and the microtome may also include an alarm operable to warn the user that the microtome is performing a cutting operation.

[0016] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to an ultramicrotome including a storage component. Typically, the ultramicrotome includes a housing having a base, a front, and a top; an ultramicrotome storage component is associated with the top of the ultramicrotome housing; and a sample sectioning assembly is associated with the front of the ultramicrotome housing, the sample sectioning assembly being operable to cut sections from a sample. The ultramicrotome storage component includes a recess formed within the top of the ultramicrotome housing, and the recess is sized to receive an ultramicrotome accessory. The ultramicrotome storage component may include a removable tray. The removable tray may include: a mating surface sized to mate with the top of the ultramicrotome housing; and a storage surface including a recess sized to receive an ultramicrotome accessory. In some cases, the ultramicrotome tray accessory may be a tissue cassette, a slide, a slide holder, or an elongated instrument. The ultramicrotome storage component may include a recess having a square or rectangular cross-section. In some cases, the ultramicrotome storage component may be integrally formed with the top of the ultramicrotome.

[0017] In other embodiments, the microtome storage tray may include: a receiving member having a mating surface and a storage surface, wherein the mating surface is sized to detachably mate with a surface of the microtome housing, and the storage surface includes a recess sized to hold a microtome attachment; and a support member extending from the receiving member, the support member having a first portion connected to the receiving member and a second portion angled relative to the first portion. The mating surface may include a shape complementary to the shape of the recess within the top wall of the microtome housing, such that the mating surface mates within the recess in the top wall. In some cases, the recess of the storage surface may include one of a square or rectangular shape. The first portion of the support member may be substantially parallel to the storage surface of the receiving member, and the second portion may be sized to be curved around an edge of the microtome housing on which the receiving member is positioned. The second portion may include a support member having an elongated channel for holding a microtome attachment.

[0018] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a sample slicing apparatus comprising: a housing having a base member; a cutting mechanism located on the base member and operable to slice a sample; a cutting mechanism sized to hold the sample and operable to move relative to the cutting mechanism during a cutting operation; and a waste removal assembly located below the cutting mechanism and the sample holder, the waste removal assembly having a first member and a second member sized to remove waste generated during the cutting operation. In some cases, the first member and the second member are each movably connected to the base member and operable to move between a first position and a second position, in the first position being at a first angle relative to the base member and in the second position being at a second angle relative to the base member, wherein the second angle is greater than the first angle. In some cases, the first member and the second member are operable to move relative to the base member between a first tilt angle and a second tilt angle, wherein the second tilt angle is approximately 90 degrees and greater than the first tilt angle. The cutting mechanism may be operable to slide relative to the base member, and sliding of the cutting mechanism may cause the first member and the second member to move relative to each other. The first member and the second member may form a tilted surface below the cutting mechanism and the sample holder. The first and second components may be fixed relative to each other. The device may also include a temperature control component connected to the first or second component to control its temperature.

[0019] In other embodiments, the present invention relates to a waste removal assembly for a sample slicing apparatus, comprising a first tilting member coupled to an ultramicrotome housing, a second tilting member coupled to an ultramicrotome housing, and an actuator movably coupled to the first and second tilting members, operable to change the slope of one of the first or second tilting members. The first and second tilting members may be metal plates. One of the first or second tilting members may include a plate with an edge hinged to the sample slicing apparatus. The slope of the first or second tilting member may be a first slope, and the actuator may cause the first or second tilting member to change to a second slope, and the second slope may be greater than the first slope. The actuator may cause the slope of one of the first or second tilting members to vary within a 90-degree range relative to the horizontal. The actuator may be a cutting mechanism of the sample slicing apparatus, and sliding of the cutting mechanism causes a change in the slope of one of the first or second tilting members. In some cases, the actuator may include an actuating member and a protrusion, and the actuating member causes the protrusion to slide beneath the first and second tilting members to change the slope. The actuator can be operated manually by the user. The actuator can also be automatic. In some cases, a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) can be connected to the first or second component to control its temperature.

[0020] The above overview does not constitute an exhaustive list of all aspects of the invention. The invention is intended to encompass all devices that can be implemented from all suitable combinations of the aspects outlined above, as well as those disclosed in the detailed description below and specifically pointed to in the claims filed with this application. Such combinations have specific advantages not specifically described in the foregoing summary. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The invention can be best understood by referring to the following description and accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the invention. In the drawings: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of an ultramicrotome or other sample slicing apparatus is shown.

[0022] Figure 2 An embodiment of a sample holder is shown in perspective view.

[0023] Figure 3A It shows Figure 2 Another perspective view of the sample holder.

[0024] Figure 3B It shows Figure 3A A cross-sectional side view of the sample holder.

[0025] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2Rear perspective view of the sample holder.

[0026] Figure 5 It shows the 5-5' along the line. Figure 4 Bottom perspective view of the cross-section of the sample holder.

[0027] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of a generator associated with a sample slicing apparatus is shown.

[0028] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a generator associated with a sample slicing apparatus is shown.

[0029] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a generator associated with a sample slicing apparatus is shown.

[0030] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a generator associated with a sample slicing apparatus is shown.

[0031] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a generator associated with a sample slicing apparatus is shown.

[0032] Figure 11 A block diagram of one embodiment of a sample slicing device associated with a sample holder is shown.

[0033] Figure 12 A perspective view of one embodiment of the storage component of an ultrathin slicer is shown.

[0034] Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 Another perspective view of the storage component of the ultrathin slicer.

[0035] Figure 14 A perspective view of another embodiment of the storage component of an ultrathin slicer is shown.

[0036] Figure 15A A perspective view of another embodiment of the storage component of an ultrathin slicer is shown.

[0037] Figure 15B It shows Figure 15A A perspective view of the storage component of an ultrathin slicer.

[0038] Figure 16A A perspective view of another embodiment of the storage component of an ultrathin slicer is shown.

[0039] Figure 16B A perspective view of another embodiment of the storage component of an ultrathin slicer is shown.

[0040] Figure 17AA perspective view of one embodiment of the waste removal component is shown.

[0041] Figure 17B It shows Figure 17A A cross-sectional side view of the waste removal component.

[0042] Figures 18-20 A perspective view showing an embodiment of the waste removal component is provided.

[0043] Figure 21 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of the handwheel lock associated with the sample slicing device.

[0044] Figure 22 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of the control panel related to the sample slicing apparatus.

[0045] Figure 23 A block diagram of one embodiment of a process for controlling a light source based on sample characteristics is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0046] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth, such as specific ultrathin slicers, specific cutting drive systems, specific sensors, specific sensing mechanisms, specific surface orientation measurement and / or adjustment processes, etc. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known mechanical components, circuits, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.

[0047] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. Spatially relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” etc., may be used herein to facilitate the description of the relationship of one element or feature to other elements (multiple elements) or features (multiple features), as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations shown in the figures, spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptive terms used herein shall be interpreted accordingly.

[0048] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context otherwise requires. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” specify the presence of the stated feature, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0049] The terms “or” and “and / or” as used herein should be interpreted as inclusive or referring to any one or any combination thereof. Therefore, “A, B or C” or “A, B and / or C” means any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C. Exceptions to this definition only arise when a combination of elements, functions, steps, or actions is inherently mutually exclusive to some extent.

[0050] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a microtome or other sample slicing apparatus is shown. The microtome 100 may be a manual microtome, while in another embodiment, it may be an automated microtome. The microtome 100 may include a housing or enclosure 102 sized to support and / or enclose various microtome components. For example, the housing 102 may be a shell-like structure defining: an internal enclosed space or chamber within which the microtome components can be positioned and enclosed; and an outer surface for supporting the microtome components. The housing 102 may include a base member 104, a top 106, and a front portion 108. The base member 104 is sized to rest on a surface such as a table—on which the apparatus will operate—and to support various sample slicing instruments or components. The top 106 may be the uppermost surface of the microtome housing 102 and, in some cases, provides an area for storing microtome accessories, as will be discussed herein. The front portion 108 connects the top 106 to the base member 104 and can support various sample slicing components. For example, a slicing assembly 110, including various components, instruments, etc., for sample slicing, can be mounted to the front 108 of the housing 102. Typically, the slicing assembly 110 may include a cutting mechanism 112 mounted to a base member 104, and a sample holder 114 mounted on the front 108 of the housing 102. The sample holder 114 may be sized to receive and hold samples (e.g., paraffin-embedded tissue samples) during slicing operations.

[0051] Additionally, to facilitate observation of the sample during the cutting operation, the sample holder 114 may further include a light source 116. The light source 116 is configured to illuminate the sample 126 held within the sample holder 114 from a rearward side (e.g., the side facing and / or in contact with the sample holder 114), allowing the user to see various aspects of the sample 126 more clearly during the cutting operation. For example, the sample 126 may be biological tissue removed from a body and embedded in paraffin. The tissue may include DNA, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, fibers, connective tissue, or other types of tissue compounds or structures, which can be highlighted or otherwise made more visible by illuminating the light source 116 therethrough. Furthermore, the light source 116 can help highlight the location of the tissue within the paraffin, allowing the user to see, for example, whether the tissue is being sliced ​​and / or how many more slices of paraffin are needed to reach the tissue. The light source 116 can be controlled using an input device 130 connected to the microtome 100. The input device 130 may be, for example, a knob, button, touchpad, or any other user input device that can be used to control the operation of electronic components. (See reference...) Figures 2 to 5 The construction of the sample holder 114 and the light source 116 is described in more detail.

[0052] The cutting mechanism 112 may include a cutting member, such as a blade or blade 124, adapted to cut slices of the sample 126 held within the sample holder 114. In one embodiment, the sample holder 114 is movable relative to the cutting mechanism 112. For example, the sample holder 114 may be connected to a feed drive system or a cutting drive system operable to move the sample holder in a vertical direction (e.g., up and down relative to the horizontal) while the cutting mechanism 112 remains stationary. Alternatively, the sample holder 114 (or a portion of the sample holder 114) may remain stationary while the cutting mechanism 112 moves relative to the sample holder 114, for example, in a vertical direction (e.g., up and down). Regardless of which component is moved, the movement of the sample holder 114 relative to the cutting mechanism 112 should cause it to cut or slice the sample held within the sample holder 114. More specifically, the surface of sample 126 can be sufficiently aligned parallel to the cutting mechanism 112 and / or the cutting plane associated with the cutting mechanism 112, and then the sample holder 114 (or the cutting mechanism 112) moves upward and / or downward to produce sufficiently uniformly cut sample slices. It should be noted that terms such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” and “lower” are used herein for ease of description of the illustrated apparatus. Other apparatuses may use vertical movement, etc., instead of horizontal movement.

[0053] The cut sample slice from sample 126 can be received by, for example, an inclined receiving member 128 coupled to blade 124. The slicing assembly 110 can be further designed such that debris or waste (e.g., paraffin sheets) associated with the slicing operation can fall after the cutting mechanism 112 and / or receiving member 128, and onto a waste removal assembly 120 located on base member 104, below sample holder 114. (See reference...) Figures 17A-20 The waste removal component 120 is described in more detail.

[0054] The microtome 100 may also include a storage member 122. The storage member 122 may include compartments or recessed areas designed to receive various microtome components. For example, the storage member 122 may be configured to hold a tissue box, slides, a holder for holding multiple slides, or other tools that a user may need when operating the microtome 100, such as a brush or pencil. The storage member 122 may be integrally formed with the top 106 of the microtome housing 102, and may be a separate tray-like structure removably attached to the top 106, or a combination of an integrally formed member and a removable structure. (See reference...) Figures 12-16B The storage component 122 is described in more detail.

[0055] Refer again Figure 1 The movement of the sample holder 114 can be controlled using a handwheel 118 (or, in the case of an automated microtome). It should be understood that although only the handle portion of the handwheel 118 is visible in this view, the handle portion is associated with a wheel that can rotate when the handle is rotated. Rotation of the handwheel 118 can move a vertically driven member associated with the sample holder 114 (or cutting mechanism 112) in the vertical direction to facilitate slicing of the sample 126. In some embodiments, the handwheel 118 may be associated with a generator operable to convert the mechanical energy of the handwheel 118 into electrical energy to drive, for example, the operation of a light source 116. (Refer to...) Figures 6-10 The various aspects of handwheel 118 and generator will be discussed in more detail.

[0056] Now refer to Figure 2 , Figures 3A-3B , Figure 4 and Figure 5 A more detailed description of the specific aspects of the sample holder and associated light source. In particular, Figure 2A perspective view of a sample holder 114 is shown. The sample holder 114 can be considered as part of an ultramicrotome chuck, or it can be an ultramicrotome chuck itself. The sample holder 114 may include a sample receiving portion 202 and a mounting portion 204, the sample receiving portion 202 being sized to receive and hold a sample, and the mounting portion 204 being sized to removably mount or fit the sample holder 114 onto a desired ultramicrotome. The sample receiving portion 204 may include a sample receiving surface 206 on which the sample will be positioned. The sample receiving surface 206 may be laterally connected to a top clamping portion 208 and a bottom clamping portion 210, which define a recessed region 216 in which the sample can be positioned. The top clamping portion 208 and the bottom clamping portion 210 can be considered as part of a clamping member 212. The clamping member 212 also includes a handle 214, which can be used to slide the clamping portions 208, 210 toward or away from each other to change the size of the recessed region 216 within the sample receiving portion 202, and thus clamp the sample located within the recessed region 216. For example, during operation, by pivoting the handle 214 in the direction away from portion 202 along arrow 218 to a first extended position (as shown), the top and bottom clamping portions 208, 210 slide toward each other (e.g., along a track). In this position, portions 208, 210 form the recessed region 216, which is approximately the same size as or slightly smaller than the sample, such that portions 208, 210 (biased toward each other) press against the edge of the sample and hold the sample within the recessed region 216. To release the sample from the recessed area 216 of the sample receiving portion 202, the handle 214 is moved to a second retracted position (e.g., pushed forward or pivoted along arrow 218), causing the top and bottom clamping portions 208, 210 to slide away from each other, thereby increasing the size of the recessed area 216 and allowing the sample to be removed. In other words, the forward or backward pivoting movement of the handle 214, in turn, drives the clamping portions 208, 210 to slide away from or toward each other. This movement further locks the sample within or releases it from the recessed area 216 of the sample receiving portion 202. It should be noted that although the position of the handle 214 illustrated (e.g., the extended position) is described herein as a position in which portions 208, 210 move away from each other, it is also conceivable that in other cases, this position of the handle 214 could allow portions 208, 210 to move toward each other to clamp the sample therebetween.

[0057] The light source 116 is positioned along the sample receiving portion 202. Typically, in one embodiment, the light source 116 includes a light-emitting chip, such as a light-emitting sensor or one or more light-emitting diode (LED) dies or chips including one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The LED chip may be positioned along the surface of the sample receiving portion 202 or within a cavity or recess formed within the sample receiving portion 202. Therefore, when the sample is positioned within the sample receiving portion 202, the light source 116 is located behind the sample. The light emitted by the LED passes through the sample and illuminates it from the rear side, thereby allowing for easier examination of various features of the biological tissue therein. Specific aspects of the light source 116 and sample illumination from the rear side are shown in... Figures 3A-3B middle.

[0058] Representatively, Figure 3A yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a sample holder. Figure 3B It is its perspective view. Figure 3AAn embodiment is shown in which the light source 116 is located within a cavity 302 of the receiving surface 206 of the sample receiving portion 202. Specifically, the cavity 302 is open to the receiving surface 206 and is formed by sidewalls 306 and a bottom wall 304, which are formed behind the receiving surface 206 (or alternatively in a plane different from the receiving surface 206). Therefore, when the sample 126 is positioned on and in contact with the receiving surface 206, the light source 116 is considered to be behind the sample 126. In other words, the light source 116 is between the sample 116 and the bottom wall 302 of the cavity 302. In this respect, the light beam or ray 308 emitted by the light source 116 is directly transmitted to and contacts the rear side 310 of the sample 116, and passes through the sample 116 to reach the front side 312. "Directly" means that the light beam or ray 308 is directed to and reaches the sample 116 without needing to be redirected or refocused toward the sample 116—for example, by inserting optical or reflective elements. Additionally, it should be recognized that because the light source 116 is a relatively low-profile light source, such as an LED chip, it can rest against the bottom wall 302 of the cavity 302 without extending beyond the plane of the receiving surface 206 on which the sample 126 rests. For example, in some embodiments, the height of the sidewalls 306 of the cavity 302, and therefore the total depth of the cavity 302, can be substantially the same as the thickness of the light source 116 (e.g., the LED chip), such that the planar emitting surface of the light source 116 is in the same plane or substantially in the same plane as the receiving surface 206. In other words, the cavity 302 is considered a relatively shallow cavity because the length (l) of the bottom wall 304 is less than the height (h) of the sidewalls 306. Due to the dimensions of the cavity 302 and the light source 116, the sample 126 can be positioned close to the light source 116 and the associated beam or ray 308, thereby avoiding unnecessary space or gap between the light source 116 and the sample 126 through which the beam or ray 308 could leak, resulting in less beam or ray 308 reaching the sample 126. It should also be understood that in some embodiments, cavity 302 is located close to the rear side of sample receiving portion 210 as it approaches receiving surface 206, such that it does not extend completely through portion 210. In this respect, the entire light source 116 is considered to be closer to receiving surface 206 and, in turn, closer to sample 126 than to the rear side of sample receiving portion 210. However, it should be recognized that although cavity 302 is shown and described as being formed in receiving surface 206, in some embodiments, cavity 302 may be formed within any wall of the sample holder, such as a sidewall (e.g., the surface of member 208 or 210 facing sample 126), such that it transmits light to the side of sample 126 not resting on surface 206.

[0059] Additionally, in some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the light source 116 can be selected to cover a desired surface area of ​​the sample 126, thereby maximizing the illumination of the sample 126. For example, the light source 116 may have a surface area sufficient to illuminate the entire surface area of ​​the front side 312 of the sample 126. Typically, in one embodiment, the light source 116 may have a substantially square or rectangular luminescent surface area, and the sample 126 may have a similar shape, such that the illumination of the sample 126 (including the corners) is maximized. It should also be noted that the term "sample" is generally used to refer to, for example, the scaffold 314 and the biological sample 316 contained within the scaffold 314, such as tissue. For example, the term "sample" may generally include biological tissue 316 and the scaffold 314 containing the biological tissue 316. The biological tissue 316 can be any type of biological material from a multicellular organ, such as bulk tissue and / or aggregates of cells and cell products, which together form a structural material with a specific function. For example, tissue 316 may be an autologous tissue and includes DNA, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, fibers, connective tissue, or other types of tissue compounds or structures, which may be highlighted or otherwise made more visible by irradiation through a light source 116. Scaffold 316 may include a block of paraffin wax, and in some cases, a positioned block of paraffin wax and a cassette in which the block of paraffin wax is located. For example, the cassette may be a plastic cassette, which serves as a support structure for the paraffin wax during the process of embedding biological tissue in paraffin. In this respect, irradiation of sample 126 can be understood to mean that biological tissue 316 (e.g., tissue), scaffold 314 (e.g., paraffin wax and / or cassette), and / or both biological tissue 316 and scaffold 314 are illuminated. Irradiation of the entire sample 126 is... Figure 3B As shown in the image.

[0060] Additionally, in some embodiments, the intensity or brightness and color or wavelength of the light output from the light source 116 can be controlled and modified based on, for example, the characteristics of the sample to be sliced. For example, in one embodiment, the light source 116 is an LED chip operable to output one or more different colors of light. For example, the light source 116 can be an LED chip comprising a plurality of LEDs fabricated on or otherwise electrically connected to a semiconductor block or wafer (including circuitry). For example, the LED chip can include one or more LEDs outputting different colors of light, such as light with wavelengths from about 360 nanometers (nm) to about 425 nm (e.g., UV LEDs), from about 430 nm to about 505 nm (e.g., blue LEDs), from about 515 nm to about 570 nm (e.g., green LEDs), from about 585 nm to about 595 nm (e.g., yellow LEDs), from 630 nm to 660 nm (e.g., red LEDs), and from about 2200 Kelvin (K) to about 10000 K (e.g., white LEDs). These LEDs of different colors can be controlled individually, and in some cases their respective light outputs can be mixed to produce the desired color of light output. For example, two or more LEDs of different colors (e.g., a master LED) can be mixed to produce monochromatic light output (e.g., white light). Alternatively, a monochromatic LED (e.g., white) can be operated individually while other LEDs (e.g., the master LED) are turned off to achieve the desired color output. Furthermore, the intensity or brightness of one or more LEDs can be independently controlled or varied within a range of approximately 50 millicandelas (mcd) to approximately 15,000 mcd. For example, when a red output is desired, the intensity or brightness of one LED (e.g., a red LED) can be increased while the intensity or brightness of another LED (e.g., a green LED) can be decreased. For example, the brightness or intensity of an LED outputting the desired color can be increased to approximately 1,000 mcd to approximately 1,500 mcd, while the intensity or brightness of an LED outputting an undesirable color can be decreased to a range below the intensity or brightness of the desired colored LED, for example, from approximately 50 mcd to approximately 1,000 mcd. It should also be understood that although the adjustment of two exemplary LEDs has been discussed, the brightness intensity of more than two, such as three, four or more LEDs, can be adjusted simultaneously, continuously or at different times to achieve the desired light output. In other words, they are all independently controlled, and therefore any combination of color and / or intensity / brightness can be achieved according to the desired output.

[0061] The intensity, brightness, and / or color of the light output can be manually selected by the user or automatically selected by the ultramicrotome controller based on, for example, the characteristics of the sample. For example, sample characteristics can be the color or density of features within a tissue (e.g., biological components such as DNA, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, fibers, connective tissue, etc.), or the color or density of the medium in which the tissue is embedded (e.g., paraffin). In particular, the color or brightness of the light output from light source 116 can be modified to produce greater contrast between the tissue or tissue feature and the surrounding medium (e.g., paraffin). This can be achieved, for example, by modifying the intensity or brightness of one of the LEDs relative to another LED, thereby achieving the desired light output color. For example, where it is determined based on the sample that blue light output will allow for better observation of the sample, the intensity of the blue wavelength LED can be increased, while the intensities of the red wavelength LED, green wavelength LED, and / or yellow wavelength LED can be decreased, or all can be turned off.

[0062] Additionally, in a further embodiment, the sample may be characterized by the color of the cassette that retains the paraffin-embedded tissue. For example, in one embodiment, the cassette may be a cassette with a specific color (e.g., red, orange, yellow, blue, green, purple, pink, brown, etc.). In this regard, when the light source 116 emits white light through the opening (or grid) in the cassette, the paraffin surrounding the tissue may reflect the color of the cassette. For example, the cassette may be a Tissue-Tek from Sakura Finetek Europe BV. III Uni-Cassette The system's red box has a grid or opening to allow fluid exchange during tissue processing operations. When light source 116 emits white light through the sample, the red color of the box may cause the paraffin to appear red to the observer. To compensate for this color change caused by the box's color, the red, green, and / or blue intensities of the white light can be individually controlled to reduce the color intensity of the light reflected by the red box, thus restoring the white appearance of the paraffin.

[0063] An exemplary process for controlling the output of light source 116 based on sample characteristics Figure 23As shown in the diagram. Typically, in one embodiment, process 2300 includes the operation of determining the characteristics of the sample (block 2302). The characteristics of the sample may be, for example, the color or density of a feature within the tissue, the color or density of the medium in which the tissue is embedded (e.g., paraffin), the color of the box in which the paraffin-embedded tissue is held, or in some cases, the color of the paraffin itself. This characteristic may be determined manually (e.g., by a user observing the characteristics of the sample) or automatically (e.g., by a scanner reading an identifier associated with the sample containing information about the sample's characteristics). Based on this information, the light output from light source 116 can then be adjusted or controlled to illuminate the sample as needed. For example, as previously discussed, in embodiments where the box is red (or another color), the red, green, and / or blue intensities of the white light can be individually controlled to reduce the color intensity of the light reflected by the red box, causing the paraffin to appear white again.

[0064] Returning to other aspects of the light source 116, the light source 116 can be electrically connected to the ultramicrotome and its associated electronic components and / or power supply via circuitry within the sample holder 114. Typically, as from... Figure 4 The rear view of the sample holder 114 shown and Figure 4 The bottom sectional view shows that, along Figure 5 As shown by lines 5-5', the sample receiving portion 202 of the sample holder 114 is mounted to or additionally includes a mounting portion 204. The mounting portion 204 can be any type of mounting member suitable for mounting the sample holder 114 (e.g., a chuck) or otherwise connecting it to an ultramicrotome, as previously discussed.

[0065] More specifically, such as from Figure 5 As seen in the cross-sectional view, the sample holder 114 includes an internal chuck clamping member 406. The internal chuck clamping member 406 may include a biasing member 510 (e.g., a spring) and is part of the clamping member 212, for example, connected to clamping portions 208, 210 (see [reference]). Figure 2This facilitates clamping the sample within the receiving portion 202. The clamping member 406 is positioned within a channel 512 formed within the sample receiving portion 202 and behind the light source 116. In this respect, the clamping member 406 can be considered directly behind the light source 116. The area of ​​the channel 512 between the light source 116 and the clamping member 406 can be used to support a flexible circuit 402 that electrically connects the light source 116 to a power source. For example, the flexible circuit 402 can be positioned above the portion of the clamping member 406 facing the light source 116. The flexible circuit 402 can be electrically connected to the light source 116 on one side via electrical contacts (not shown) associated with the light source 116. The flexible circuit 402 can be electrically connected on the other side to electrical contacts 404 of the mounting portion 204, which are electrically connected to the circuit 516 and the power source 518. The circuit 516 can be any type of circuit operable to process, control, and / or execute instructions, processing protocols, etc., for ultramicrotome operation (e.g., light source operation). Power source 518 can be any type of power source operable to supply power to ultrathin slicer components (e.g., light source), such as a generator, AC power, battery power, etc. In this respect, light source 116 can be electrically connected to electrical contacts 404 of mounting portion 204 and, consequently, receive commands and / or power via flexible circuit 402 to operate light source 116. It should be understood that although flexible circuitry is illustrated, light source 116 can be electrically connected to electrical contacts 404 using any suitable material (e.g., wires, etc.).

[0066] The mounting portion 204 of the sample holder 114 can then be mounted to a part of the microtome (e.g., the front 108 of the housing 102) having corresponding electrical contacts or terminals that engage with electrical contacts 404 within the mounting portion 204. For example, the mounting portion 204 may have mating portions (e.g., recesses, protrusions, tracks, channels, etc.) complementary to the mating portion of the device (e.g., the microtome) to which it will be mounted, such that it can be mounted on the device in one aspect and removed from it in another. The corresponding electrical contacts or terminals of the microtome can be associated with a power source (e.g., a socket, battery, generator, etc.) or other circuitry for supplying power to the operation of the light source 116 and / or controlling the operation of the light source 116. As discussed earlier, more specifically, each LED individually constitutes the light source 116. In this respect, because the sample holder 114 is not hardwired to the microtome itself, it can be removed and mounted to any microtome having corresponding electrical contacts suitable for supplying power and / or signals to the light source 116.

[0067] Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9Schematic diagrams of various energy harvesting mechanisms are shown, which in one embodiment can be used to power the light source 116 or any other electronic components (e.g., an alarm) associated with the sample holder 114. Typically, in embodiments where the microtome 100 is a manual microtome, there is no active power source (e.g., current) associated with the microtome to drive, for example, the movement of the sample holder 114 during slicing operations. Instead, rotation of a handwheel mechanically drives, for example, the up-and-down movement of the sample holder 114 relative to the cutting mechanism to slice the sample. Similarly, because the microtome is entirely manual, there is no power source for operating the light source 116. Therefore, in one embodiment, the microtome 100 also includes an energy harvesting mechanism for generating electricity (in the absence of electrical energy), which can be used for the operation of the light source 116, and in some cases, can store power for subsequent operations of the light source 116. An energy harvesting apparatus can be any type of system capable of converting one form of energy (e.g., mechanical, power, or solar energy) into electrical energy that can be used to power the light source 116 and any other components associated with the ultrathin slicer that may require electrical input (e.g., an alarm).

[0068] Representatively, Figure 6 A schematic diagram of one embodiment is shown, in which the energy harvesting mechanism is a generator 600, which can generate electricity from the rotation of a handwheel 602 associated with an ultrathin slicer (see also previous references). Figure 1 The handwheel 602 (discussed as 118) can be represented by a handle 604 connected to a disc 606, which rotates as indicated by arrow 608 when the handle 604 is rotated. To facilitate energy generation, the disc 606 may include a magnetic strip 610 arranged in series along its outer edge and a rotating magnetic core 612 magnetically coupled to the disc 606. The magnetic core 612 may further include a coil 614, within which a current can be generated when the magnetic core 612 rotates relative to the magnetic strip 610. This current or voltage is then transmitted from the coil 614 to a circuit 616 (e.g., processing circuitry or a controller) and ultimately to a light source 116 (e.g., via electrical contacts 404 connected to a mounting portion of the flexible circuit 402). In this respect, the generator 600 uses the rotation of the handwheel 602 to generate a current or voltage, which can then be transmitted to the light source 116 via circuitry as previously discussed. It should be understood that, because in this embodiment, disk 606 must rotate to generate current, in some embodiments, a storage module may be further provided so that the power can be stored and used at a later time (e.g., on demand, such as by pressing a button or operating a switch) without having to rotate disk 606.

[0069] Figure 7A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a microtome generator is shown. In this embodiment, the generator 700 includes a microtome handwheel 602 with a handle 604 coupled to a disc 606. The handle 604 can be used to rotate the disc 606, as indicated by arrow 608, to actuate, for example, a cutting operation, as previously discussed. However, in this embodiment, the disc 606 is coupled to a smaller wheel 702, which is coupled to a stepper motor 706 to generate current. Specifically, rotation of the disc 606 (e.g., via rotation of the handle 604) causes rotation of the smaller wheel 702, as indicated by arrow 704, which is coupled to the stepper motor 706 via a shaft 708, and thus drives the stepper motor 706 to generate current or voltage. The stepper motor 706 can be coupled to a circuit 616, which can be used to transmit the generated current or voltage to a light source 116 to provide power to the light source 116. Similar to generator 600, generator 700 can also be connected to a storage module capable of storing current or voltage, so that it can be used later to power light source 116.

[0070] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a generator for an ultrathin slicer is shown. In this embodiment, the generator 800 is substantially similar to the reference design. Figure 7 The described generator 700, except in this embodiment, involves a belt 802 coupled to a smaller wheel 702 to rotate the disk 602 (e.g., using a handle), and a stepper motor 706 to generate electricity. Specifically, the belt 802 surrounds the disk 606 and the smaller wheel 702. Rotation of the disk 606 causes the belt 802 to rotate the smaller wheel 702, and the stepper motor 706 in turn generates a voltage that can be used to power the light source 116. For example, the stepper motor 706 is coupled to circuitry 616 (and in some cases to memory), which facilitates the transfer of current or voltage to the light source 116, as previously discussed.

[0071] Figure 9A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the generator for an ultrathin slicer is shown. In this embodiment, the generator 900 includes a rack and pinion assembly for generating current or voltage using a stepper motor. Specifically, as previously discussed, rotation of the handwheel 602 causes the shaft 902 associated with the sample holder 114 to move up and down as indicated by arrow 904. The shaft 902 contacts the rack 908, which is positioned near the shaft 902, causing the rack 908 to also move up and down as indicated by arrow 910. The rack 908 is connected to the pinion 906 of the stepper motor 706. Therefore, the movement of the rack 908, in turn, rotates the pinion 906, driving the stepper motor 706 associated with the pinion 906, which in turn generates current or voltage. The stepper motor 706 is connected to circuitry 616 (and in some cases to memory), which facilitates the transmission of current or voltage to the light source 116, as previously discussed.

[0072] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a generator for an ultrathin slicer is shown. In this embodiment, the generator 1000 includes a piezoelectric material 1002 for generating current or voltage. Typically, in this embodiment, the generator 1000 includes the piezoelectric material 1002, which, as previously discussed, is compressed or expanded by the shaft 902 as it moves upward and downward as indicated by arrow 1004. This, in turn, causes the piezoelectric material 1002 to generate a charge corresponding to the current or voltage. The piezoelectric material 1002 is coupled to circuitry 616 (and in some cases to memory), which facilitates the transmission of current or voltage to light source 116, as previously discussed.

[0073] It should be understood that, in any of the previously discussed embodiments, the voltage or current generated by the generator can be used to power any component of the ultramicrotome, enabling, for example, cutting operations, processing protocols, etc., to be performed. For example, in one embodiment, the current can be used to turn light source 116 on / off, modify the brightness or intensity of light source 116, or modify the color or wavelength of light source 116, as previously discussed. Additionally, it should be understood that, in embodiments where light source 116 includes multiple LEDs, the voltage or current can be used to operate or otherwise individually control each LED (e.g., turn it on / off, modify its brightness or intensity, or modify its color or wavelength). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the ultramicrotome 100 also includes a storage module, such as a battery or capacitor, which can be used to store the voltage generated by the generator and to provide power to light source 116 when the handwheel is not rotated. In this respect, light source 116 can be used not only during cutting operations with the handwheel rotating but also when the handwheel is not rotating. Furthermore, the voltage can be used to power other electronic components that may be associated with the ultramicrotome. For example, the electronic component could be an alarm (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 11The alarm (1116) illuminates, vibrates, or emits a noise when the handwheel is rotated to warn the user that a cutting operation is being performed. In this respect, an alarm that is not normally used with a manual microtome due to the lack of power can now be used to warn the user. It should be recognized that although the alarm is described as being used to warn the user of a cutting operation, it can be used to warn the user of any information needed during microtome operation (e.g., completion of a cutting cycle, presence / absence of a sample, low power, etc.).

[0074] As discussed earlier, slicing can be performed manually through user interaction with the system, or automatically in some cases. Figure 11 A schematic block diagram of one embodiment of an ultramicrotome is shown, which includes a handwheel, a generator, and processing circuitry for controlling the operation of a light source associated with a sample holder. Typically, device 1100 may include processing circuitry 1102, a power supply 1104, and input / output devices 1110, and is associated with a sample holder 1118. Processing circuitry 1102 may be used to control the operation of a light source 1120 associated with the sample holder 1118 or other electronic components associated with device 1100 (e.g., an alarm). Processing circuitry 1102 may be based on a processor such as a microprocessor and other suitable integrated circuits. With a suitable arrangement, processing circuitry 1102 can be used to run software on device 1100 to control, for example, the operation of light source 1120 (e.g., on / off, brightness, or color).

[0075] Input / output device 1110 can be used to allow data and / or instructions to be provided to device 1100 and to allow data to be provided from device 1100 to external devices. Handwheel 1112, button 1114, and alarm 1116 are examples of input / output device 1110. Users can control the operation of device 1100 by providing commands through user input devices such as handwheel 1112 and button 1114. In some embodiments, optional display and audio devices may be provided, which may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen or other screen, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and other components for presenting visual information and status data. The display and audio devices may also include audio equipment, such as speakers and other devices for generating sound. The display and audio devices may include audio-video interface equipment, such as jacks and other connectors for connecting external headphones and monitors.

[0076] Device 1100 may also include a power source 1104 for supplying power to electronic components associated with device 1100, such as a light source or alarm. Power source 1104 may include a generator 1106, which generates electricity, for example, by rotating a handwheel 1112, as previously discussed. Power source 1104 may also include a battery 1108 or other devices such as capacitors, which can store electrical energy (e.g., energy generated by the generator) for later use. Additionally, in further embodiments, such as in the case of an automated ultrathin slicer, power source 1104 may include a wall-mounted plug-in power supply.

[0077] Device 1100 can communicate with external devices, such as sample holder 1118, as shown in path 1122. Path 1122 can include wired or wireless paths (e.g., ...). Figures 4 to 5 The flexible circuit 402 described in the previous reference. The sample holder 1118 may include a light source 1120 and is substantially similar to the previous reference. Figure 1-5 The sample holder 114 and the light source 116 are discussed. In this respect, the current generated by, for example, generator 1106 can be used to power the light source 1120, and the processing circuit 1102 can be used to control the operation of the light source 1120 (e.g., control the brightness or color).

[0078] Figures 12-16B Perspective views of various embodiments of a storage component associated with a sample slicing apparatus such as an ultramicrotome are shown. Typically, Figure 12 A storage component 1200 is shown, designed to store various sample sectioning accessories on an ultramicrotome 1202. The ultramicrotome 1202 can be substantially similar, for example, to the one previously referenced. Figure 1 The ultrathin slicer 100 discussed here is connected to the slicing assembly 110 (e.g., a chuck), therefore, the previous references will be omitted here. Figure 1 The specific features discussed will now be discussed. Instead, various aspects of the relevant storage member 1200 will be discussed. Typically, in one embodiment, the storage member 1200 may be integrally formed within the top of the ultrathin slicer 1202. For example, the storage member 1200 may be a previously referenced... Figure 1 The housing 102 discussed is a portion of the top 106 and is inseparable from it. Typically, the storage member 1200 may include recessed regions 1204A, 1204B, 1204C, 1204D, and 1204E formed within the top (or wall) of the housing of the ultramicrotome 1202. The recessed regions 1204A-1204E may have features suitable for... Figure 13The recessed areas 1204A-1204E can be of any size and shape for receiving and holding ultramicrotome accessories. Typically, the recessed areas 1204A-1204E may have a square or rectangular outline and be sized to accommodate ultramicrotome accessories such as tissue cassettes 1302, slide holders 1304, elongated instruments 1306, etc., which can be placed on top of the ultramicrotome and stored there without falling off. For example, each recessed area 1204A-1204E may include a base 1206 and one or more sidewalls 1208 on which desired ultramicrotome slide accessories can rest, the one or more sidewalls 1208 surrounding the base 1206 and separating one recessed area from another. Each of the base 1206 and sidewalls 1208 of the storage member 1200 may be formed of the same material as the ultramicrotome housing (e.g., plastic, etc.). In some cases, a portion of the recessed regions 1204A-1204E (e.g., base 1206) may be textured, or additionally have a non-smooth surface or include a textured pad to help hold the desired ultrathin slicer attachment therein.

[0079] Figures 14-16B A perspective view of another embodiment of the storage component is shown, which can be used with or in place of storage component 1200. It should be noted that, for ease of explanation, Figures 14-16B Various internal components of the ultramicrotome are omitted; however, these components may also be present. Typically, in this embodiment, the storage member 1400 is a tray-like structure, separate from the ultramicrotome housing and sized to rest on top of the ultramicrotome 1202, for example, as described in the previously referenced... Figures 12-13 The storage member 1200 is discussed within the recessed area or cavity formed by the storage member 1400. The storage member 1400 can be placed on top of the microtome 1202 and can also be removed from the microtome 1202. In this respect, the contents of the storage member 1400 can be moved to a different location from the microtome 1202 (e.g., away to one side of the microtome 1202) while still maintaining the same arrangement and / or position so that the user can easily position each attachment.

[0080] In one embodiment, the storage member 1400 may have a receiving member 1402 and a support member 1408. The receiving member 1402 is designed to store microtome accessories, and the support member 1408 is designed to help hold the storage member 1400 on the microtome 1202 and may also be used for storage. In this respect, the receiving member 1402 may include a storage surface 1404 and a mating surface 1406. The storage surface 1404 may be the top side of the receiving member 1402 (e.g., the side facing away from the microtome) and includes various recessed areas or cavities 1410A, 1410B, 1410C, which are sized to hold microtome accessories (e.g., tissue cassettes, slide holders, slides, elongated instruments, etc.). The mating surface 1406 is formed on the opposite side of the receiving member 1402 and is sized to mate with recesses (e.g., recessed areas 1204A-1204E) formed on the top of the microtome 1202. For example, mating surface 1406 may include a protrusion that complements a recess or cavity along the top of the ultrathin slicer 1202 (e.g., within the storage member 1200) and mates within the cavity to hold the storage member 1400 in place.

[0081] A support member 1408 may extend from the receiving member 1402 and overlap one side of the microtome 1202, as shown, to help hold the storage member 1400 in place. Specifically, the support member 1408 may include: a first portion 1412, which is substantially flat, planar, or curved, and extends from the edge of the receiving member 1402 (e.g., horizontally); and a second portion 1414, which is angled relative to the first portion 1412 such that it extends downward (e.g., vertically) along said side of the microtome 1202. In other words, the second portion 1414 is angled relative to the first portion 1412. For example, the second portion 1414 may be considered to be around the edge of the microtome 1202 and curved downward from the first portion 1412. The support member 1408 may also include a cavity or channel 1416, which may also be used to store microtome accessories along one side of the microtome 1202, as shown. The cavity or channel 1416 may have an elongated profile and extend along a portion of the side of the ultrathin slicer 1202.

[0082] Figure 15A A perspective view of another embodiment of the storage component is shown. Figure 15A The storage member 1500 shown is substantially similar to the storage member 1400, except that in this embodiment, the cavities 1410A-1410C are arranged differently along the receiving member 1402. Figure 15BA perspective view of the storage component 1500 is shown, with the microtome accessory removed, allowing a clearer view of the cavities 1410A-1410C. Specifically, this view reveals, for example, that the recessed region or cavity 1410B includes a plurality of slots 1502, sized to receive and hold microscope slides within the cavity 1410B. Typically, the slots 1502 may have walls evenly spaced apart from each other and forming cavities (approximately the distance between slides), sized to hold microscope slides adjacent to each other on their sides, and in some cases, slightly angled. Cavities 1410A and 1410C may further be formed by recessed regions defined by sidewalls 1504.

[0083] Figure 16A and Figure 16B A perspective view of another embodiment of the storage component is shown. Representatively, Figure 16A A perspective view of another embodiment of a storage component that can be used with or in place of storage component 1200 is shown, and Figure 16B The image shows the top of the ultrathin slicer. Figure 16A The storage member 1600 is, typically, a tray-like structure sized to rest on top of the microtome 1202, for example, within a recessed area or cavity formed by the storage member 1200. The storage member 1600 may include: a receiving member 1602 designed to store microtome accessories; and a support member 1608 designed to help hold the storage member 1600 on the microtome 1202 and may also be used for storage.

[0084] The receiving member 1602 may include a storage surface 1604 and a mating surface 1606. The storage surface 1604 may be the top side of the receiving member 1602 (e.g., the side facing away from the microtome) and includes various recessed areas or cavities 1610A, 1610B, 1610C, sized to hold microtome accessories (e.g., tissue cassettes, slide holders, slides, elongated instruments, etc.). The mating surface 1606 is formed on the opposite side of the receiving member 1602 and is sized to mate with a recess formed on the top of the microtome 1202. For example, the mating surface 1606 may include a protrusion that complements a recess or cavity along the top of the microtome 1202 (e.g., within the storage member 1200) and fits within the cavity to hold the storage member 1600 in place.

[0085] In some embodiments, cavity 1610C may have a slot to hold slide 1620 therein (see Figure 16B(e.g., slot 1502 as previously discussed) and also includes an opening 1612 to allow liquid to drip through the storage member 1600. For example, the cavity 1610C can be formed for use with an ultramicrotome accessory—e.g., a slide 1620 (see...) Figure 16B The drying rack—the slide 1620 may contain a liquid component (e.g., water), which drains from the slide when it is in the rack. Opening 1612 allows liquid to drain through member 1600 without collecting in the bottom of cavity 1610C, where it could, for example, be a source of bacterial growth and contaminate the slide. Additionally, as… Figure 16B As shown, the cavity 1610A can be sized to receive accessories such as container 1622 (e.g., tissue box, slide container, etc.).

[0086] In some embodiments, the liquid absorption member 1614 may be further positioned between the storage member 1600 and the surface of the ultramicrotome 1202, for example, in a recessed region of the storage member 1200. In this regard, when the storage member 1600 as... Figure 16B When placed inside component 1200, any liquid flowing through opening 1612 is collected and absorbed by liquid-absorbing component 1614. Liquid-absorbing component 1614 can be any type of liquid-absorbing component, such as tissue paper, napkin, paper towel, a piece of cloth, etc.

[0087] Additionally, the storage component 1600 may also include a support component 1608, which extends from the receiving component 1602 and overlaps with one side of the ultrathin slicer 1202, such as... Figure 16B As shown, this helps to hold the storage member 1600 in place. The support member 1608 may include a cavity or channel 1616, which can also be used to store microtome accessories along one side of the microtome 1202, as shown, and as previously referenced. Figure 14 Other similar features discussed in storage component 1400.

[0088] As from Figure 16A and Figure 16B It can also be seen that the ultrathin slicer 1202 may include a knob 1618 to control the operation of the light source 116, as shown in the previous reference, for example. Figures 1 to 5 The subject of discussion.

[0089] Figures 17A-18 A perspective view of the waste removal component for a sample slicing apparatus is shown. (Refer to...) Figures 17A-17B The waste removal component 1700 can be configured to facilitate the removal of waste, such as paraffin fragments, that falls onto the surface of the microtome 100 during the cutting operation. The microtome 100 can be, for example, substantially similar to the microtome 100 described with reference to the preceding figures. Therefore, although in Figures 17A-18Specific details of the ultrathin slicer 100 are not described and / or shown, but it should be understood that they may be included.

[0090] The waste removal assembly 1700 can be positioned on the base member 104 of the microtome 100, below the cutting mechanism 112 and the sample holder 114. In this respect, when the cutting mechanism 112 cuts the sample 126, the sample slice remains on the front side of the cutting mechanism 112 (e.g., the side away from the base member 104), and any waste falls onto the waste removal assembly 1700 behind the cutting mechanism 112. Typically, any waste or debris falling into this area of ​​the microtome 100 is difficult to remove because it is located between the cutting mechanism 112, the front side of the microtome, and the sample holder 114, making it difficult for the user to reach.

[0091] However, the waste removal assembly 1700 addresses this problem by providing a mechanism that facilitates pushing debris from the area to a location more easily removed by the user. For example, the waste removal assembly 1700 may include a first waste member 1702 and a second waste member 1704. In some embodiments, the first waste member 1702 and the second waste member 1704 are plates angled or otherwise inclined relative to each other and to the base member 104, such that they form an inclined surface below the sample holder 114. In this respect, when waste falls on the first and second waste members 1702, 1704, it slides down the surface of the members, or can be easily brushed off the surface by the user, away from the cutting mechanism 112, allowing the user to easily remove it. In one embodiment, the first waste member 1702 and the second waste member 1704 are fixed relative to each other in an inclined configuration, as shown. In other embodiments, the first and second waste members 1702 and 1704 are movable relative to each other and have a modifiable inclination that can be increased or decreased to facilitate debris removal. For example, in some embodiments, first and second waste components 1702 and 1704 are coupled to an actuator that causes components 1702 and 1704 to move relative to each other.

[0092] For example, Figure 17B It shows Figure 17AA cross-sectional side view of the waste removal assembly 1700. This view shows that actuator 1710 is connected to the second waste component 1704 (and also to the first waste component 1702, although not visible in this view). Actuator 1710 may be further connected to the cutting mechanism 112. In this respect, when the cutting mechanism 112 slides along the track 1706, this in turn causes actuator 1710 to slide and causes components 1702, 1704 to move relative to each other, for example, from a first (more horizontal) position to a second (more vertical) position, as shown by the dashed lines. The movement of the cutting mechanism 112, actuator 1710, and / or operation of components 1702, 1704 can be automatic or manual. For example, if the movement of the cutting mechanism 112 is automatic (e.g., in an automated microtome), the movement of actuator 1710 and components 1702, 1704 can be further considered automatic. In other embodiments, the movement of the cutting mechanism 112, actuator 1710, and / or components 1702, 1704 can be performed manually, for example by a user holding one or more of these components and moving (e.g., sliding or rotating) them as needed. (See reference...) Figures 18-20 The operation of actuator 1710 and components 1702, 1704 is described in more detail.

[0093] In some embodiments, the first waste component 1702 and the second waste component 1704 may be metal plates. In some embodiments, the temperature of the metal plates may be controlled to facilitate the removal of waste thereon. For example, a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) 1708 may be optionally coupled to one or both of components 1702 and 1704 to maintain a desired temperature for components 1702 and 1704. For example, it may be desirable to cool components 1702 and 1704 below the melting temperature of paraffin wax so that waste (including paraffin wax) placed on component 1702 does not melt and adhere to components 1702 and 1704. Furthermore, in some embodiments, to further facilitate waste removal, components 1702 and 1704 may have a surface coating (e.g., a non-stick coating such as a fluoropolymer) that makes the surface smoother or otherwise makes it easier for waste to slide off.

[0094] Now for reference Figures 18-20 , Figures 18-20 An embodiment of the operation of a waste removal assembly having movable first and second waste components is shown. Typically, Figure 18The waste removal assembly 1700 is shown in a first position, such as a waste collection position, where the first and second waste components 1702, 1704 have minimal or no inclination, and components 1702, 1704 are both in the same plane. As shown, any waste or debris 1806 from the cutting operation falls onto the first and second waste components 1702, 1704. The first and second waste components 1702, 1704 are respectively connected to the base component 104 (as previously discussed, of the ultramicrotome 100) at opposite edges via hinges 1802, 1804. However, the interface edges 1816, 1818 of the first and second waste components 1702, 1704 are free and movable relative to each other. An actuating member 1710 (e.g., a beam or other elongated structure) including spaced-apart protrusions 1810 is positioned in front of each of the first and second waste components 1702, 1704. Actuating member 1710 slides toward or away from (e.g., horizontally) the first and second waste members 1702, 1704, as indicated by arrow 1812, to change the slope or tilt angle of the first and second waste members 1702, 1704 relative to the base member 104. Specifically, when actuating member 1710 is pushed toward the first and second waste members 1702, 1704, protrusion 1810 slides beneath the first and second waste members 1702, 1704, causing them to rotate away from each other (e.g., outward or vertically), which in turn increases the slope or tilt angle relative to the base member 104 (or horizontally). Figure 19 As shown. Representatively, Figure 19 First and second waste components 1702, 1704 are shown rotated to a second waste removal position, which can be an angle of approximately 90 degrees, as shown by angle 1902. In other words, the first and second components 1702, 1704 can rotate within a rotation angle of approximately 90 degrees (e.g., between 0 and 90 degrees). This, in turn, results in the waste components 1702, 1704 (and the surfaces of the waste components 1702, 1704) having a substantially vertical orientation, so that debris 1806 detaches from the first and second waste components 1702, 1704 and moves away from the cutting mechanism toward the area of ​​the microtome 100, where it can be more easily removed. However, it should be noted that although a rotation angle of approximately 0-90 degrees is disclosed, larger rotation angles, where components 1702, 1704 extend beyond vertical, for example, 0-180 degrees, are also conceivable.

[0095] Once the debris is removed, the actuator 1710 slides away from the first and second waste removal components 1702, 1704, as... Figure 20 As indicated by arrow 2002, they are rotated back to the first waste collection position, where the tilt angle 1814 is much smaller than when they are in the removal position (e.g., angle 1814 is less than 90 degrees).

[0096] Additionally, in some embodiments, the ultrathin slicer disclosed herein may also include, for example: Figure 21 The handwheel locking mechanism is shown. Specifically, after moving the sample holder (e.g., sample holder 114) using the handwheel 2102 associated with the sample slicing apparatus (e.g., ultramicrotome 100), the locking mechanism 2104 can be engaged to lock the sample holder (e.g., sample holder 114) in the desired position. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 2104 may also be associated with an indicator light or alarm associated with the ultramicrotome, which can be activated to indicate that the handwheel is in the locked position. For example, the locking mechanism 2104 may include a tab 2104B, which is part of the locking latch 2104A, as shown. Figure 21 As shown. In the locked position, when latch 2104A locks wheel 2102 in place (e.g., by latching to wheel spokes or other wheel parts), tab 2104B activates photo switch 2106 to send a signal to controller 2108, which in turn sends a signal to turn on (or off) indicator light 2110 located in front of the microtome.

[0097] Figure 22An embodiment of an indicator light that can be associated with the locking mechanism of a sample slicing apparatus is shown. For example, the sample slicing apparatus may include a control panel 2202 associated with a housing (e.g., mounted to housing 102), which includes an indicator light 2204 (e.g., an LED) indicating that a handwheel is locked, and an indicator light 2206 (e.g., an LED) indicating that the light source 116 (behind the sample block) is on. Additionally, the control panel 2202 may also include indicators 2208 to indicate the color, intensity, wavelength, etc., of the light source 116, as previously discussed. For example, indicator 2208A may indicate a light color, indicator 2208B may indicate light intensity, indicator 2208C may indicate light wavelength, and indicator 2208D may indicate the amount of time the light has been operated, or the status of the light (e.g., the light is burnt out and needs replacement). In other embodiments, each of indicators 2208A-2208D may correspond to, for example, each LED within the light source 116 and indicate the characteristics of that particular LED (e.g., color, intensity, brightness, wavelength, etc.). For example, indicator 2208A can indicate the characteristics of a red LED, indicator 2208B can indicate the characteristics of a blue LED, indicator 2208C can indicate the characteristics of a green LED, and indicator 2208D can indicate the characteristics of a white LED. In other embodiments, indicators 2208A-2208D can be touch-sensitive controllers, buttons, or switches that can receive user input to control different characteristics of light source 116. Furthermore, it is contemplated that although indicator 2206 is described as a light source different from light source 116, in some embodiments, indicator 2206 may be a previously referenced... Figure 1 The light source under discussion is 116.

[0098] Additionally, although reference Figure 21 Mechanical locking mechanisms have been discussed, but in some embodiments, the locking mechanism may be, for example, a permanent magnet electromagnet, a geared motor, or a rotary handle locked by friction or other known methods. In one embodiment, the motor can be used to tighten the chuck when it is not being adjusted. When the microtome determines the position of the sample by adjusting the chuck, or when the user decides to manually adjust the position of the tissue sample by adjusting the chuck, the motor can be signaled to release the chuck to allow adjustment. At other times, when the chuck position is not being adjusted, the motor can be signaled to hold the chuck in a tightened or locked configuration so that the position of the chuck and / or the position of the sample held by the chuck is not unintentionally changed.

[0099] It should be understood that in some embodiments, the sample holder can be any sample holder capable of reorienting the sample surface orientation so that it is parallel or more parallel to the cutting member and / or cutting plane. For example, in some embodiments, the sample holder can be part of a multi-axis workpiece chuck or an electric chuck capable of adjusting the orientation of the sample's cutting surface in two dimensions relative to the cutting member and / or cutting plane. Examples of suitable multi-axis workpiece chucks are described in U.S. Patent 7,168,694 to Xuan S. Bui et al., filed January 22, 2004, and assigned to the assignee of this application, entitled "MULTI-AXISWORKPIECE CHUCK". In one embodiment, the multi-axis chuck may have a mounting assembly that holds the workpiece (e.g., a sample) in a substantially fixed orientation relative to the chuck. The chuck can be manually rotated by an operator using a controller connected to one or more motors, or the ultramicrotome can rotate the chuck automatically. One or more sensors can be used to sense the position of the chuck. According to one embodiment, each axis may have three sensors that detect the intermediate nominal position and the end position of the chuck. The user or ultrathin slicer can control the movement of the chuck by signaling the motors to rotate it to the desired position. The sensors can be used to determine whether the desired position has been reached. In one embodiment, the chuck may include first and second portions rotatable about at least two orthogonal axes. The first portion can rotate about a first axis and independently of the second portion. Rotation of the second portion about a second axis can cause the first portion to also rotate about the second axis. This allows the chuck to rotate in multiple dimensions.

[0100] In some embodiments, a sample cutting or slicing cycle may include: (1) moving a sample block forward horizontally toward the cutting plane a predetermined distance related to the desired slice thickness; (2) moving the sample block vertically (e.g., downwards) toward the cutting member to obtain a slice; (3) moving the sample block backwards or in the opposite horizontal direction away from the cutting plane and / or the cutting member a predetermined distance; and (4) moving the sample block in the opposite vertical direction (e.g., upwards) away from the cutting member. Retracting or moving the sample block backwards horizontally away from the cutting member helps to prevent the sample block from contacting the cutting member during (4) when the sample block is moved away from the cutting member in the opposite vertical direction (e.g., upwards). Typically, the distance the sample block is retracted may correspond to the thickness of the sliced ​​sample. Alternatively, it is conceivable that in some embodiments, this retraction step may be omitted. The slicing cycle may be repeated until the desired number of slices are obtained.

[0101] In some embodiments, an ultramicrotome may be able to use different sample travel speeds for different parts of the slicing cycle. For example, in some embodiments, a relatively faster feed drive system and / or sample travel speed may be used during one or more non-slicing portions of the slicing cycle (e.g., when no sample cutting or slicing is being performed), while a relatively slower feed drive system and / or sample travel speed may be used during the slicing portions of the slicing cycle (e.g., when sample cutting or slicing is being performed). Using a relatively slower feed drive system and / or sample travel speed during sample cutting or slicing tends to provide higher quality and / or more consistent slices, while faster processing of one or more other non-slicing portions of the slicing cycle can help increase the overall speed of the slicing cycle and / or allow more slices to be produced in a given amount of time. Thus, the feed drive system and / or sample travel speed can be varied throughout the slicing cycle. For example, a user can control or program the slicing cycle so that the sample block or sample moves vertically (e.g., downwards) toward the cutting member to obtain a slice (e.g., operation (2) in the paragraph above) more slowly than one or more other parts of the slicing cycle (e.g., operations (1), (3), (4) or a combination thereof in the paragraph above).

[0102] In some embodiments, an ultramicrotome may include logic devices for controlling the operation of a light source associated with a sample holder. For example, in some embodiments, the ultramicrotome may include logic devices that allow configuration or programming of configurable or programmable brightness or color selection. For instance, brightness or color may be selected based on the color or other characteristics of the sample. In one example embodiment, the ultramicrotome is operable to allow an operator to specify or indicate the type of sample, a characteristic of the sample (e.g., color), or a characteristic of the embedding medium. The ultramicrotome may include logic devices programmed to select the brightness and / or color of the light to be output based on this information, which has been determined to allow a desired level of contrast between, for example, tissue or tissue features and the embedding medium (e.g., paraffin). In other embodiments, the brightness or color output from the light source may be manually selected by the user.

[0103] In some embodiments, a microtome may include logic devices to allow specifying a configurable or programmable slicing portion of a slicing cycle in which a relatively slow feed drive system and / or sample movement speed will be used. For example, in some embodiments, the microtome may include logic devices that allow configuring or programming configurable or programmable slice lengths. For instance, this length may be selected from multiple predetermined lengths corresponding to different types of cassettes with different sizes. Different types of cassettes have different slice lengths on which slices are made. As an example, the 7019 Paraform® 13mm × 13mm biopsy cassette and the 7020 Paraform® 26mm × 19mm biopsy cassette have different slice lengths and are commercially available from Sakura Finetek USA Inc., Torrance, California. In one example embodiment, the microtome is operable to allow an operator to specify or indicate the slice length. The specification or indication of the slice length can be done in various ways, such as, for example, by specifying a length, selecting a length from multiple predetermined lengths, specifying the type of cassette, selecting the type of cassette from multiple different cassette types, etc. For example, when a user is ready to produce sections from a specific type of cassette, the user can select the specific type of cassette using the control device, and the microtome may have been pre-programmed with a predetermined section length corresponding to that specific type of cassette. During sectioning, the microtome can use a relatively slow feed drive system and / or sample movement speed at the specified section length, and can use a relatively fast movement speed at one or more or substantially all other parts of the sectioning cycle. For example, a relatively fast speed can be used immediately before or immediately after cutting the sample at the specified section length, and immediately after or immediately after cutting the sample at the specified section length.

[0104] In some embodiments, the microtome may include logic devices that initially and automatically remove a given or predetermined portion of the sample. For example, this portion may include paraffin, embedding material, cassette material, or other non-tissue material of a given or predetermined thickness covering or concealing actual tissue material from which sections need to be sliced ​​(e.g., positioned between the cutting surface of the tissue material and the foremost outer surface of the sample that will contact the sensing plate). For instance, the sample may include a piece of tissue placed at the bottom of the cassette, with the cassette and tissue sample embedded in a block of embedding material. In the case of various cassettes manufactured by SakuraFinetek USA, Inc. of Torrance, California, the cassette may include Paraform® cassette material having slicing characteristics similar to those of paraffin, and slicing can be performed through the Paraform® cassette material at the bottom of the cassette.

[0105] In some embodiments, a microtome may include logic that initializes the autonomous removal of a given or predetermined portion of a sample (e.g., a portion of paraffin, embedding material, cassette material, or other non-tissue material covering or concealing the actual tissue material to be sectioned). For example, a microtome may automatically remove the bottom of the cassette to expose or provide access to the actual tissue material of the sample. Typically, in the case of certain cassettes, depending on the thickness of the material constituting the cassette bottom and the section thickness, the microtome may autonomously produce multiple (e.g., from about two to about twenty, typically from about five to about fifteen) sections to remove a predetermined thickness from the cassette bottom. The thickness of the cassette bottom may be known or predetermined by the microtome. For example, a user may directly specify the thickness or select from several different types of cassettes, each with a pre-programmed or otherwise known cassette bottom thickness. In some cases, the operator may control the microtome to perform an automated process, for example, by utilizing user input devices on the control unit (e.g., trim buttons) or otherwise selecting a trimming operation. Advantageously, allowing the microtome to automatically remove a portion of the sample (e.g., the bottom of the cassette) eliminates the need for the operator to do so and / or may be inclined to expedite the removal of a portion of the sample (e.g., the bottom of the cassette). The sectioning cycle can then begin once the actual tissue of the sample is exposed to obtain sections of the tissue (e.g., the operator can press a sectioning button or otherwise cause the microtome to obtain sections from the cut surface of the now exposed tissue sample).

[0106] It should also be understood that references to "one embodiment," "embodiment," or "one or more embodiments" throughout the specification, for example, mean that a particular feature may be included in the practice of the invention. Similarly, it should be understood that in the specification, various features are sometimes combined in a single embodiment, figure, or description therein in order to simplify the disclosure and aid in understanding various aspects of the invention. However, this method of disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the invention requires more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive aspect may lie in fewer than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are expressly incorporated herein, wherein each claim is itself a separate embodiment.

[0107] The invention has been described in the foregoing specification with reference to specific embodiments thereof. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0108] In the foregoing description, numerous specific details have been set forth for illustrative purposes in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that one or more other embodiments may be practiced without some of these specific details. The particular embodiments provided are not intended to limit the invention but rather to illustrate it. The scope of the invention is not determined by the specific embodiments provided above, but only by the following claims. In other instances, well-known circuits, structures, devices, and operations have been shown, either in block diagram form or without detail, to avoid obscuring the understanding of the specification.

[0109] Those skilled in the art will also understand that modifications can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein, such as to the size, shape, configuration, connection, form, function, material, and operation of the components of the embodiments, as well as to their assembly and use. All equivalent relationships shown in the drawings and described in the specification are included in the embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals or the last portion of reference numerals are repeated between the drawings where deemed appropriate to indicate corresponding or similar elements, which may optionally have similar features.

[0110] Various operations and methods have been described. Some methods have been described in basic form, but operations may optionally be added to and / or removed from methods. Furthermore, while a specific order of operations has been described according to the examples, it will be understood that this specific order is exemplary. Alternative embodiments may optionally perform operations in a different order, combine certain operations, overlap certain operations, etc. Many modifications and adjustments can be made to these methods, and such modifications and adjustments are to be expected.

[0111] One or more embodiments include an article of manufacture (e.g., a computer program product) that includes a machine-accessible and / or machine-readable medium. The medium may include a mechanism for providing (e.g., storing) information in a machine-accessible and / or readable form. A machine-accessible and / or machine-readable medium may provide or has stored thereon a series of instructions and / or data structures that, if executed by a machine, would cause or lead the machine to perform and / or enable the machine to perform one or more or a portion of the operations or methods disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the machine-readable medium may include a tangible, non-transitory machine-readable storage medium. For example, a tangible, non-transitory machine-readable storage medium may include a floppy disk, optical storage medium, optical disk, CD-ROM, magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), random access memory (RAM), static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), flash memory, phase-change memory, or combinations thereof. Tangible media may include one or more solid or tangible physical materials, such as semiconductor materials, phase-change materials, magnetic materials, etc.

[0112] It should also be understood that references to "one embodiment," "embodiment," or "one or more embodiments" throughout the specification, for example, mean that a particular feature may be included in the practice of the invention. Similarly, it should be understood that in the specification, various features are sometimes combined in a single embodiment, figure, or description therein in order to simplify the disclosure and aid in understanding various aspects of the invention. However, this method of disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the invention requires more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive aspect may lie in fewer than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are expressly incorporated herein by reference, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of the invention.

Claims

1. A chuck for an ultrathin slicer, comprising: The mounting portion has a mating surface operable to detachably attach the mounting portion to the sample slicing apparatus, and an electrical contact operable to electrically connect the mounting portion to a power source. A sample receiving portion is connected to the mounting portion, the sample receiving portion having a first side and a second side, the first side including a sample receiving surface for positioning a sample thereon, the sample receiving surface having a cavity defined by an opening to the sample receiving surface and a base opposite to the opening, the base defining a depth of the cavity less than the thickness of the sample receiving portion, wherein, when the mounting portion is attached to a sample slicing device, the sample receiving surface remains parallel to the cutting plane of the cutting mechanism of the sample slicing device; A light source is coupled to the sample receiving portion, the light source being disposed in the cavity in a plane defined by the sample receiving surface, such that the light source is positioned between the sample positioned on the sample receiving surface and the sample receiving surface, the light source being operable to emit light from the sample receiving surface, and the light passing through the sample positioned on the sample receiving surface; and A circuit that electrically connects the light source to the electrical contacts of the mounting portion.

2. The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 1, wherein, The light source includes light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

3. The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 1, wherein, The light source is a light-emitting diode (LED) chip comprising multiple LEDs, and the LED chip is mounted to the sample receiving part.

4. The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 1, wherein, The light source is positioned within the cavity of the sample receiving portion, and the cavity includes a depth substantially the same as the thickness of the light source.

5. The chuck of the ultrathin slicer according to claim 1, further comprising a controller operable to modify at least one of the brightness or wavelength of the light emitted by the light source.

6. The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 5, wherein, The controller modifies either the brightness or wavelength of the light based on the characteristics of the sample.

7. The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 1, wherein, The circuit includes a flexible circuit installed between the mounting portion and the sample receiving portion.

8. The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 1, wherein, The electrical contact is a first electrical contact, and the sample slicing device includes a second electrical contact electrically connected to the power supply, wherein when the mounting portion is attached to the sample slicing device, the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are in contact with each other, and the light source is electrically connected to the power supply.

9. The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 1, wherein, The sample slicing device includes a manual microtome, and the power supply for the circuit includes current manually generated by rotating the handwheel of the sample slicing device.

10. An ultrathin slicer, comprising: A cutting mechanism, operable to cut slices from a sample; as well as The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to any one of claims 1-9.

11. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 10, wherein, LED chips can operate to emit light at a first brightness and a second brightness different from the first brightness.

12. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 10, wherein, The LED is a first LED, and the light source also includes a second LED, wherein the first LED and the second LED are capable of operating at different wavelengths.

13. The ultrathin slicer of claim 10 further includes an alarm that is operable to warn a user that the ultrathin slicer is performing a cutting operation.

14. A method for controlling the light source of an ultramicrotome chuck, comprising: To determine the characteristics of a sample held by an ultramicrotome chuck according to any one of claims 1-9; and The characteristics of the light output from the light source of the ultrathin slicer chuck are controlled based on the characteristics of the sample.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The sample includes a biological sample, and the characteristics of the sample include the color of the biological sample, the density of the biological sample, or the biological components of the biological sample.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein, The light source includes a light-emitting diode (LED), and the characteristics of controlling the light output by the light source include changing the intensity of the light output by the LED.

17. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The sample includes a biological sample embedded in paraffin, and the characteristics of the sample include the color of the paraffin or the density of the paraffin.

18. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The sample comprises a paraffin-embedded biological sample and a box, and the sample is characterized by the color of the box.

19. The method of claim 14, wherein, The light source includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with different wavelengths, and the characteristics of controlling the light output from the light source include modifying the intensity of one of the LEDs relative to another LED to achieve the desired light output color.

20. A sample slicing apparatus, comprising: A cutting mechanism, operable to cut slices from a sample; A sample holder operable to move relative to the cutting mechanism, the sample holder having a first side and a second side, the first side including a sample receiving surface facing the cutting mechanism and on which a sample is positioned, and having a cavity in the first side, the cavity being defined by an opening to the sample receiving surface and a base opposite to the opening, the base defining a depth of the cavity less than the thickness of the sample receiving portion, wherein the sample receiving surface remains parallel to the cutting plane of the cutting mechanism; A light source is coupled to the sample holder, the light source being disposed in the cavity such that it is mounted within a plane defined by the sample receiving surface, such that the light source is positioned between the sample positioned on the sample receiving surface and the sample receiving surface, wherein the light source is operable to emit light from a first side of the sample holder, and the light passes through the sample located on the first side; and A generator capable of operating to generate electrical energy to power the light source.

21. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The light source is a light-emitting diode (LED).

22. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The sample holder includes a flexible circuit that is operable to provide an electrical connection between the light source and the electrical energy generated by the generator.

23. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The generator is operable to generate electrical energy to power the light source by converting the mechanical movement of a handwheel used to drive the movement of the sample holder into electrical energy.

24. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The generator is operable to generate electrical energy by converting sunlight into electrical energy to power the light source.

25. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The generator is a piezoelectric generator.

26. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The generator includes a stepper motor.

27. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20 further includes an energy storage device for storing energy generated by the generator for use by the light source.

28. The sample slicing apparatus of claim 20 further includes a controller for controlling one of the brightness or wavelength of the light emitted from the light source.

29. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 28, wherein, The controller modifies the brightness of the light based on the characteristics of the sample.

30. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 29, wherein, The controller modifies the wavelength of the light based on the characteristics of the sample.

31. The sample slicing apparatus of claim 20 further includes an alarm for warning the user when the apparatus performs a cutting operation.

32. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 20, further comprising: A lock, operable to lock the handwheel associated with the cutting mechanism, wherein the light source is illuminated when the handwheel is locked.

33. A sample slicing apparatus, comprising: A cutting mechanism, operable to cut slices from a sample; A sample holder operable to hold a sample, the sample holder having a first side and a second side, the first side facing the cutting mechanism and having a sample receiving surface thereon and having a cavity in the first side, the cavity being defined by an opening to the sample receiving surface and a base opposite to the opening, the base defining a depth of the cavity less than the thickness of the sample holder, wherein the sample receiving surface remains parallel to the cutting plane of the cutting mechanism; A light source is connected to the sample holder, the light source being disposed in the cavity in such a way that it is mounted in a plane defined by the sample receiving surface, such that the light source is positioned between the sample and the sample receiving surface positioned along the sample receiving surface, wherein the light source is operable to emit light from a first side of the sample holder, and the light passes through the sample located on the first side; A handwheel, operable to move the sample holder relative to the cutting mechanism during a cutting operation; and A generator capable of operating to generate electrical energy to power the light source.

34. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 33, wherein, The generator is operable to generate electrical energy by converting sunlight into electrical energy to power the light source.

35. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 33 further includes an energy storage device for storing energy generated by the generator for use by the electronic components.

36. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 33, wherein, The light source includes a light-emitting diode (LED) operable to emit light from the sample holder, and the light passes through the sample on the sample holder, wherein one of the intensity or color of the light is modified.

37. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 33, wherein, The electronic component includes an alarm that can be operated to indicate to the user whether the cutting operation is being performed.

38. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 33, wherein, The light source is a light-emitting diode (LED) chip, and the sample slicing device also includes an alarm that can be operated to warn the user that the sample slicing device is performing a cutting operation.

39. An ultrathin slicer, comprising: An ultrathin slicer housing having a base, a front, and a top; An ultrathin slicer storage component, the ultrathin slicer storage component being associated with the top of the ultrathin slicer housing; and The chuck for an ultrathin slicer according to any one of claims 1-9.

40. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 39, wherein, The ultrathin slicer storage component includes a recess formed within the top of the ultrathin slicer housing, and the recess is sized to receive ultrathin slicer accessories.

41. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 39, wherein, The ultrathin slicer storage component includes a removable tray.

42. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 41, wherein, The removable tray includes: a mating surface sized to mate with the top of the microtome housing; and a storage surface including a recess sized to receive microtome accessories.

43. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 41, wherein, The accessories for the ultrathin slicer include tissue boxes, glass slides, glass slide holders, or slender instruments.

44. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 39, wherein, The ultrathin slicer storage component includes a recess with a square or rectangular cross-section.

45. The ultrathin slicer according to claim 39, wherein, The storage component of the ultrathin slicer is integrally formed with the top of the ultrathin slicer.

46. ​​A sample slicing apparatus, comprising: A housing defined by a front and a top and having a base member including a portion projecting from the front; A cutting mechanism located on the base member and operable to cut slices from the sample; A sample holder is coupled to the front portion of the housing, the sample holder being sized to hold a sample and operable to move relative to the cutting mechanism during a cutting operation, the sample holder having a first side and a second side, the first side facing the cutting mechanism and including a sample receiving surface for positioning a sample thereon and having a cavity in the first side, the cavity being defined by an opening to the sample receiving surface and a base opposite to the opening, the base defining a depth of the cavity less than the thickness of the sample holder, wherein the sample receiving surface remains parallel to the cutting plane of the cutting mechanism; A light source is coupled to the sample holder, the light source being disposed in the cavity such that it is mounted in the plane defined by the sample receiving surface, such that the light source is positioned between the sample positioned on the sample receiving surface and the sample receiving surface, wherein the light source is operable to emit light from a first side of the sample holder, and the light passes through the sample located on the first side; and A waste removal assembly is located on the front portion of the base member, below the cutting mechanism, and between the front portion of the housing and the sample holder. The waste removal assembly has a first member and a second member, the dimensions of which are configured to remove waste generated during the cutting operation. The first component and the second component are each movably connected to the base component and operable to move between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the first component and the second component form a first angle relative to the base component, and in the second position, the first component and the second component form a second angle relative to the base component, wherein the second angle is greater than the first angle.

47. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 46, wherein, The first and second components are operable to move relative to the base component between a first tilt angle and a second tilt angle, wherein the second tilt angle is approximately 90 degrees and greater than the first tilt angle.

48. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 46, wherein, The cutting mechanism is operable to slide relative to the base member, and the sliding of the cutting mechanism causes the first member and the second member to move relative to each other.

49. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 46, wherein, The first component and the second component form an inclined surface below the cutting mechanism and the sample holder.

50. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 46, wherein, In each of the first and second positions, the first component and the second component are fixed relative to each other.

51. The sample slicing apparatus according to claim 46, further comprising: A temperature control component, which is connected to the first component or the second component to control its temperature.

52. A storage tray for an ultrathin slicer, comprising: A receiving member having a mating surface and a storage surface, wherein the mating surface is sized to detachably mate with a surface of an ultramicrotome housing, and the storage surface includes a recess sized to hold an ultramicrotome accessory; and A support member extending from the receiving member, the support member having a first portion connected to the receiving member and a second portion angled relative to the first portion.

53. The storage tray for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 52, wherein, The mating surface includes a shape complementary to the shape of a recess in the top wall of the ultrathin slicer housing, such that the mating surface fits into the recess in the top wall.

54. The storage tray for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 52, wherein, The recessed portion of the storage surface may be either square or rectangular in shape.

55. The storage tray for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 52, wherein, The first portion of the support member is substantially parallel to the storage surface of the receiving member, and the second portion is sized to be curved around the edge of the ultrathin slicer housing, on which the receiving member is positioned.

56. The storage tray for an ultrathin slicer according to claim 52, wherein, The second part of the support member includes an elongated channel for holding the ultrathin slicer attachment.

57. A waste removal component for a sample slicing apparatus, comprising: A first tilting member is connected to the housing of the ultrathin slicer; The second tilting member is connected to the housing of the ultrathin slicer; and An actuator movably coupled to the first tilting member and the second tilting member, wherein the actuator is operable to change the inclination of one of the first tilting member or the second tilting member.

58. The waste removal assembly according to claim 57, wherein, The first inclined member and the second inclined member comprise metal plates.

59. The waste removal assembly according to claim 57, wherein, One of the first or second inclined members includes a plate with an edge that is hinged to the sample slicing device.

60. The waste removal assembly according to claim 57, wherein, The slope of the first tilting member or the second tilting member is a first slope, and the actuator causes the first tilting member or the second tilting member to change to a second slope, wherein the second slope is greater than the first slope.

61. The waste removal assembly according to claim 57, wherein, The actuator causes the inclination of one of the first or second tilting members to vary within a range of 90 degrees relative to the horizontal.

62. The waste removal assembly according to claim 57, wherein, The actuator includes a cutting mechanism for a sample slicing device, wherein sliding of the cutting mechanism causes a change in the inclination of one of the first or second tilting members.

63. The waste removal assembly according to claim 57, wherein, The actuator includes an actuating member and a protrusion, wherein the actuating member slides the protrusion below the first tilting member and the second tilting member to change the inclination.

64. The waste removal assembly according to claim 57, wherein, The actuator is operated manually by the user.

65. The waste removal assembly of claim 57, wherein the actuator is automated.

66. The waste removal assembly of claim 57, further comprising: A thermoelectric cooler (TEC) is connected to the first component or the second component to control its temperature.

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