Clamping device configured for clamping at least one glass slide

Abstract

A gripping device (150) configured for gripping at least one slide (168) is disclosed herein. The clamping device (150) comprises: at least one first clamping element (110), wherein the first clamping element (110) comprises at least one first contact surface (112) for clamping the slide (168); at least one second clamping element (134), where the second clamping element (134) comprises at least one second contact surface (136) for clamping the slide (168), where the second clamping element (134) further comprises at least two projections (160), each extending substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface (136), wherein the at least two protrusions (160) are located on opposite ends (162) of the second contact surface (136), wherein the at least two protrusions (160) are configured for centering the slide (168) during gripping of the slide (168) via the gripping device (150); wherein the first clamping element (110) and the second clamping element (134) are linearly movable relative to each other, and wherein the first contact surface (112) of the first clamping element (110) and the second contact surface (136) of the second clamping element (134) face each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a clamping device configured to clamp at least one slide, a slide transfer device, a method for clamping at least one slide, a method for releasing at least one slide, a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device, and a method for imaging a plurality of slides. Herein, the slide imaging device can preferably be used for digital pathology; however, other uses are also possible. Background Art

[0002] A slide imaging device includes an imaging device configured to generate an image of a sample placed on a slide. The images generated by modern imaging devices are usually digital images, and thus such images can be referred to as "digital slides". Generally, the sample placed on the slide is a biological sample, such as a tissue sample. Generally, the slide is a glass slide. Generally, the slide imaging device is used for digital pathology, which can be understood as an image-based information environment that enables the management of information generated from digital slides.

[0003] The imaging device can generate such an image, for example, by using a scanning method, which can cover most or the entire surface of the slide, and the corresponding slide imaging device can be referred to as a "whole slide imaging" device. The slide imaging device can use a 2D (two-dimensional) camera or a line scan detector to generate an image of the sample placed on the slide. Examples of slide imaging devices are described, for example, in EP 00534247B1, EP 0245089 A2, US 6118582 A, US 6522774 B1, US6640014B1, US 6711283 B1, US 7682573 B1, WO 2013 / 017855, US 8712116B2, and US 9116035B2.

[0004] Generally speaking, the imaging device has the ability to process 1 to 1,000 slides simultaneously. Usually, a distinction can be made between an imaging device with low throughput (which involves processing less than 10 slides simultaneously) and an imaging device with high throughput (which means processing more than 100 slides simultaneously), where an imaging device configured to process 10 to 100 slides simultaneously can thus be represented as an imaging device with medium throughput. To load one or more slides into the imaging device, individual slides are usually manually inserted into a slide storage repository (especially selected from a slide tray or a slide rack), and then the slide storage repository is introduced into the imaging device to generate the required image of the sample placed on the slide.

[0005] However, it is desirable to be able to insert the slide into the slide receiver included in the imaging device in an automated manner, particularly by using a suitable supply device. To this end, the supply device may be or may include a gripping device that is generally designed to perform a specific gripping task. With respect to the disclosure herein, the specific gripping task particularly includes transferring the slide to the slide receiver of the imaging device in a tight manner so as to avoid instability or loss of the slide during transportation.

[0006] WO 2021 / 191410 A1 describes a slide imaging device and a method for imaging a plurality of slides. The slide imaging device includes at least one imaging device configured to generate an image of a sample placed on a slide. The imaging device includes at least one operation button. Further, the slide imaging device includes a storage device that can be loaded with a plurality of slides and is configured to store the slides. Further, the slide imaging device includes a supply device configured to supply the slides from the storage device to the imaging device. The supply device is configured to press the operation button.

[0007] EP 3308129 A1 describes a machine for preparing and analyzing one or more slides according to immunofluorescence techniques. The machine includes a loading station adapted to accommodate one or more containers for holding test liquid and / or product samples. Further, the machine includes a positioning station for one or more slides. Further, the machine includes a receiving station for one or more slide coverslips. Further, the machine includes an analysis station that includes a microscope for digitally acquiring images at one or more magnifications. Further, the machine includes a component that can move within the area defined by the machine and is controlled to move through the stations in such a way that one or more slides can be prepared according to a predefined protocol and the slides can be arranged in the corresponding analysis station for subsequent acquisition of one or more digital images. Further, the machine includes one or more coverslips sized such that they can be applied to cover each slide arranged in a seat. Further, the machine includes a container for accommodating one or more of the coverslips. After completion of the sample pre-dilution phase, the component is further controlled to operate the removal of the coverslip and arrange the coverslip within the container.

[0008] US2007 / 059205 A1 describes an automated microplate handling apparatus for removing a microplate from within a plurality of vertically stacked microplates and transferring the removable microplate to a receiving area. A vertical storage apparatus for storing a plurality of vertically stacked microplates creates a vertical clearance space between the vertically stacked microplates. A lift plate slides into the vertical clearance space beneath the microplate being removed. The lift plate then removes the microplate from the vertical storage apparatus and places the microplate at a transfer station. A gripper then grasps the microplate from the transfer station and transfers the microplate to the receiving area. In a preferred embodiment, the automated microplate handling apparatus is controlled via a computer network.

[0009] WO 2012 / 040433 A1 describes that a pathological sample slide is accurately positioned on a tray and picked up and placed by an automatic loader. The tray is received in a rack in a layered form, and each layer is accessed by the automatic loader, which moves the slide between the tray and a digital imaging microscope. The tray may have rows of receptacles for the slides, where a spacer structure spaces the slides above the bottom of the tray. The lateral and end partitions defining the receptacles are inclined inwardly relative to each other for guiding the slides to a predetermined positioning on the tray. The automatic loader has a manipulator that grasps the end of the slide presented in the previous row and can move over the previous row to grasp one or more rows of slides other than the previous row. The manipulator lifts the slide between the inclined surfaces of the partitions, loads the slide and then retrieves the slide from the microscope and replaces the slide back into the holder.

[0010] CN 110482219 A describes a machine vision-based medical glass slide transfer system and method. The system relates to a robotic arm, a mobile vehicle and a vision positioning module, where the robotic arm is arranged on the mobile vehicle, the vision positioning module communicates with the robotic arm, the robotic arm communicates with the mobile vehicle, the mobile vehicle drives the robotic arm to move to a first positioning, the vision positioning module is used to collect the positioning information of the glass slide tray and send the collected positioning information to the robotic arm, and the robotic arm clamps the glass slide tray according to the received positioning information.

[0011] WO 2022 / 123944 A1 describes a microscope slide conveying device, which includes: an arm member that is movably provided in a first direction in a plane and has a first contact member at its tip that contacts a first end surface of the microscope slide; a support plate that has a second contact member and is used to support the microscope slide from below, and the second contact member contacts a second end surface opposite to the first end surface of the microscope slide in the first direction; a driving unit that is used to movably drive the arm member in the first direction; and a pushing member that is provided between the driving unit and the arm member, wherein when the arm member has moved to a position where the first contact member and the second contact member simultaneously contact the microscope slide, the pushing member pushes the arm member in the first direction.

[0012] US2010 / 0303600 A1 describes a device for mechanically grasping and placing impact-sensitive sheets of various formats on at least one stacking assembly for scheduling, and the device has the following features: a) a control device in the form of a multi-axis robotic arm is connected to a gripper device and a device for mechanically gripping the sheet; b) the gripper device is hinged to the control device in a gently inclined manner and suspended on the control device through an adjustable damping device; c) the gripper device has a sliding section for relative displacement of the device for mechanically gripping the sheet; d) the gripper device has a device for determining the geometric dimensions of the sheet to be grasped and determining its placement position; e) the gripper device has a device for determining the exact positioning coordinates of the placement position; f) the gripper device has a device for smoothly feeding and placing the sheet at the placement position.

[0013] US2004 / 086368 A1 describes a grasping mechanism, a gripper device / system, and related methods. A grasping mechanism is provided that includes a stop, a support surface, and a height-adjustable surface to determine the three translational axis positions of the grasped object. In addition, a grasping mechanism elastically coupled to other gripper device components is also described.

[0014] US2012 / 002277 Al describes a slide storage device, which includes: a supply tray that has a supply holding space determined by an upper limit of the longer side allowed by the longer side of the slide glass and an upper limit of the shorter side allowed by the shorter side of the slide glass, and slides to be supplied to a processing unit operable to perform a predetermined process are placed on the supply tray; a take-out tray that has a take-out holding space determined by a longer side longer than the upper limit of the longer side and a shorter side longer than the upper limit of the shorter side, and slides that have been processed in the processing unit and are about to be taken out are placed on the take-out tray; and a support unit that supports the supply tray and the take-out tray.

[0015] JP 2017021275 A describes an image acquisition device for acquiring image data of a slide glass. The image acquisition device includes: a first imaging unit; a first holding mechanism; a second imaging unit having a second holding mechanism and imaging the slide glass held by the second holding mechanism; a slide glass storage unit storing a plurality of slide glasses; and a control unit. The first holding mechanism takes out a slide glass from the slide glass storage unit and transports the slide glass to a predetermined position of the first imaging unit. The first imaging unit images the slide glass held by the first holding mechanism, and the first holding mechanism transports the slide glass to the second holding mechanism. The second holding mechanism adjusts the position of the slide glass, and the second imaging unit images the slide glass held by the second holding mechanism.

[0016] CN 112269029 A describes a manipulator for facilitating the grasping of a slide glass. The manipulator includes a frame, a placement block, an upper clamping block, a lower clamping block, an elastic clamping piece, and an anti-corrosion and anti-slip sheet material, wherein the upper clamping block and the lower clamping block are connected to the placement block; the elastic clamping piece is connected to the upper clamping block, and a lower end portion of the elastic clamping piece protrudes from a lower end portion of the upper clamping block; and the anti-corrosion and anti-slip sheet material is arranged at an upper end portion of the lower clamping block. When grasping the slide glass, the placement block moves vertically and horizontally relative to the frame, the upper clamping block and the lower clamping block move relatively or in opposite directions to clamp or release the slide glass, and the lower end portion of the elastic clamping piece elastically contacts the slide glass, so that the slide glass can be firmly grasped and damage to the slide glass due to excessive grasping force can be avoided; and the anti-corrosion and anti-slip sheet material can prevent the slide glass from slipping off the lower clamping block and prevent the lower clamping block from being corroded.

[0017] Although the known methods and devices have advantages, there are still several technical challenges. Specifically, during the transportation of the slide glass, the clamping may become loose. Further, in a slide glass tray, the space for clamping the slide glass may be limited.

[0018] Problems to be Solved

[0019] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a clamping device configured to clamp at least one slide glass, a slide glass transfer device, a method for clamping at least one slide glass, a method for releasing at least one slide glass, a method for transferring at least one slide glass from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device, and a method for imaging a plurality of slide glasses, which methods allow for reliable transfer of the slide glass. Summary of the Invention

[0020] The above problems are solved by a clamping device configured to clamp at least one slide, having the features of the independent claims, a slide transfer device, a method for clamping at least one slide, a method for releasing at least one slide, a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device, and a method for imaging a plurality of slides. Advantageous embodiments that may be implemented separately or in any arbitrary combination are listed in the dependent claims.

[0021] As used hereinafter, the terms "having", "including", or "comprising" or any grammatical variants thereof are used in a non-exclusive manner. Thus, these terms can refer both to a situation where no other features are present in the entity described in this context in addition to the features introduced by these terms, and to a situation where one or more other features are present. As an example, the expressions "A has B", "A includes B", and "A comprises B" can refer both to a situation where no other elements are present in A in addition to B (i.e., a situation where A consists of B alone and uniquely); and to a situation where one or more other elements (such as element C, elements C and D, or even other elements) are also present in entity A in addition to B.

[0022] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one", "one or more", or similar expressions indicating that a feature or element may be present once or more than once are generally used only once when introducing the corresponding feature or element. Hereinafter, in most cases, when referring to the corresponding feature or element, the expressions "at least one" or "one or more" are not repeated, even though the corresponding feature or element may be present only once or multiple times.

[0023] Furthermore, as used hereinafter, the terms "preferably", "more preferably", "particularly", "more particularly", "specifically", "more specifically", or similar terms are used in conjunction with optional features without restricting the possibilities of alternatives. Thus, the features introduced by these terms are optional features and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the present invention can be carried out by using alternative features. Similarly, features introduced by "in one embodiment of the present invention" or similar expressions are intended to be optional features, without any limitation to alternative embodiments of the present invention, without any limitation to the scope of the present invention, and without any limitation to the possibility of combining the features introduced in this way with other optional or non-optional features of the present invention.

[0024] The terms "first" and "second" may be regarded merely as nomenclature, without numbering or ordering the named elements, without specifying an order and without excluding the possibility that there may be several first or second elements. Further, there may be additional elements, such as one or more third elements.

[0025] As used herein, the term "slide" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a substrate designated for placing a sample on the surface of the slide. As used herein, the term "sample" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a biological sample, such as a tissue sample. However, other kinds of samples may also be feasible.

[0026] Particularly for the purpose of carrying the sample without any change during the processing of the slide, the substrate is mechanically stable and may thus include any material providing sufficient mechanical stability. Particularly for the purpose of carrying a biological sample, the substrate may preferably present a surface configured to be compatible with the biological material. For example, the slide is a glass slide because it is known that glass provides sufficient mechanical stability on the one hand and has high compatibility with biological materials on the other hand. However, other kinds of materials for the slide are also feasible.

[0027] Further, the slide may in particular have such a form that it enables imaging of the sample placed on the slide. For the purpose of generating a desired image of the sample, the slide may preferably be a plate having a 2D extension and a certain thickness, wherein the 2D extension of the plate may preferably present a rectangular form or a circular form, and wherein the thickness of the plate may be small compared to the dimensions of the extension, preferably 20%, more preferably 10%, particularly 5%, or less than a measure of the linear extent of the 2D extension of the plate. Further, the slide may include at least one spring piece, particularly at least one plastic spring piece, which is configured to interact with a clamping device, which will be described in more detail below.

[0028] Exemplarily, the slide may have a length of 76 mm, a width of 25 mm and a thickness of 1 mm. However, other dimensions may also be feasible.

[0029] A glass slide, especially a plurality of glass slides, can be received in a glass slide tray, such as for storage, sample preparation, or imaging. As used herein, the term "glass slide tray" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an element configured to hold at least one glass slide or glass slide holder, especially during the scanning of at least one glass slide in an imaging device. The glass slide tray can specifically include a plurality of receiving portions. The receiving portions can be configured to receive one glass slide, especially a single glass slide. The receiving portions can each include a frame configured to hold the glass slide, especially to hold the glass slide in a horizontal orientation.

[0030] In a first aspect of the present invention, a clamping device for clamping at least one glass slide is disclosed. The clamping device includes at least one first clamping element. The first clamping element includes at least one first contact surface for clamping the glass slide. Further, the clamping device includes at least one second clamping element. The second clamping element includes at least one second contact surface for clamping the glass slide. The second clamping element further includes at least two protrusions extending substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface respectively. The at least two protrusions are located at opposite ends of the second contact surface. The at least two protrusions are configured to center the glass slide during clamping of the glass slide via the clamping device. The first clamping element and the second clamping element are linearly movable relative to each other. The first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element face each other.

[0031] As used herein, the term "clamping device" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a mechanical element that is generally designed to grasp an object, transfer it to a desired position, and release the object at the desired position. Regarding the disclosure herein, a particular clamping device can thus be configured to clamp a glass slide to transfer the glass slide in a tight manner to a glass slide receiver of a device such as an imaging device, thereby avoiding instability or loss of the glass slide during transportation, and is configured to release the glass slide, preferably into a glass slide tray.

[0032] As used herein, the term "clamping element" is a broad term and should be given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and should not be limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a component or part of a clamping device. The component can be disposed independently, or can be coupled, connected or integrated to achieve at least one common function. As described above, the clamping device includes the first clamping element and the second clamping element. The first clamping element and the second clamping element can be used as pliers for clamping the slide respectively. Further details of the first clamping element and the second clamping element are given in more detail below.

[0033] As described above, the first clamping element includes the first contact surface, and the second clamping element includes the second contact surface. As used herein, the term "contact surface" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, any surface configured to be in direct contact with an object, especially in direct contact with the surface or a part of the surface of the object. Thus, the object can be configured to lie loosely on the contact surface. The first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element can be substantially planar.

[0034] The slide can include at least one sample surface configured to receive at least one sample and at least one opposite rear surface. The first contact surface of the first clamping element can be configured to contact the rear surface. The second contact surface of the second clamping element can be configured to contact the sample surface.

[0035] The slide can specifically have a rectangular basic shape with two longitudinal sides and two end faces. The slide can be an elongated element extending along a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal sides can extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the end faces can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The clamping device can be configured to clamp the slide on one of the end faces of the slide.

[0036] Specifically, when the slide is clamped by the clamping device, the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be substantially parallel to the sample surface and the opposite rear surface of the slide, respectively. Thus, the term "substantially parallel" can refer to the property of the first contact surface and the second contact surface being parallel to the sample surface and the opposite rear surface of the slide. Exemplarily, the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be precisely parallel to the sample surface and the opposite rear surface of the slide. However, small deviations may be feasible. Specifically, the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be arranged at an angle of + / -20°, preferably + / -10°, more preferably + / -5° with respect to the sample surface and the opposite rear surface of the slide, respectively.

[0037] The first contact surface and the second contact surface can be in direct contact with only a part of the sample surface and the opposite rear surface of the slide, respectively. Thus, the area of the sample surface covered by the sample may not be in contact with the second contact surface.

[0038] As described above, the first clamping element and the second clamping element are linearly movable relative to each other. Specifically, the first clamping element and the second clamping element are only linearly movable relative to each other. Exemplarily, when the second part moves, the first clamping element can be stationary. Alternatively, the first clamping element can move and the second clamping element can be stationary. In addition, the first clamping element and the second clamping element can move separately. The term "linearly movable" can specifically refer to the property of an element designed to provide free movement in one direction, particularly in a straight line. Specifically, it refers to an element that can move in a straight line.

[0039] The first contact surface and the second contact surface can be oriented substantially parallel to each other. Thus, the term "substantially parallel" can refer to the property of the first contact surface being parallel to the second contact surface. Exemplarily, the first contact surface can be precisely parallel to the second contact surface. However, small deviations may be feasible. Specifically, the first contact surface can be arranged at an angle of + / -20°, preferably + / -10°, more preferably + / -5° with respect to the second contact surface. Before the slide is clamped by the clamping device, the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be arranged at a distance from each other that is greater than the thickness of the slide, particularly at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times. When the slide is clamped by the clamping device, the slide can be arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface. Thus, the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be arranged at a distance from each other that can be substantially equivalent to the thickness of the slide.

[0040] The first clamping element can move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface of the second clamping element. The second clamping element can move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface of the first clamping element. The term "substantially perpendicular" can include a slight deviation from a perpendicular arrangement, such as an arrangement that deviates from the perpendicular arrangement by no more than 10 degrees, preferably no more than 5 degrees.

[0041] Further, the clamping device can include at least one actuator for driving the relative movement of the first clamping element and the second clamping element. As further used herein, the term "actuator" refers to any element configured to move or control a mechanism or system. The actuator can be operated by an energy source (usually electric current or mechanical pressure) and can convert energy into motion. The actuator can be optionally selected from the group consisting of: mechanical actuators, electromagnetic actuators, pneumatic actuators. However, other types of actuators can be applied.

[0042] The actuator can be configured to perform a predetermined movement sequence to successively bring the first clamping element and the second clamping element into at least two positions, specifically into a closed position and an open position. Further, the actuator can be configured to stop moving in one of the at least two positions. The open position can refer to the position of the first clamping element and the second clamping element relative to each other, where the first contact surface and the second contact surface are arranged at a distance from each other that is greater than the thickness of the slide, especially at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times. The open position can specifically refer to the position before the slide is clamped. The closed position can refer to the position of the first clamping element and the second clamping element relative to each other, where the first contact surface and the second contact surface are arranged at a distance from each other that is substantially equal to the thickness of the slide. In the closed position, the slide can be arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0043] As described above, the first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element face each other. The first contact surface and the second contact surface can be arranged opposite to each other. As will be described in further detail below, the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be shaped differently. Thus, the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be arranged opposite to each other with an offset.

[0044] The first contact surface of the first clamping element may have a rectangular basic shape. Specifically, the first contact surface may have a rectangular shape. The term "rectangular basic shape" generally refers to any shape, at least part of which may be rectangular. However, the shape may also include other features at the same time, such as exemplary rounded corners. The first contact surface of the first clamping element may have a length and a width. The length may exceed the width by at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times, and most preferably at least 2.5 times. Exemplarily, the first contact surface may have a length of 8 mm to 20 mm, preferably 10 mm to 17 mm, and most preferably 14 mm. Further, exemplarily, the first contact surface may have a width of 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably 4 mm to 6 mm, and most preferably 5 mm. Exemplarily, the first contact surface may have a length of 14 mm and a width of 5 mm. However, other dimensions may also be feasible.

[0045] The first clamping element may include at least one first contact member having the first contact surface and at least one first guiding member configured to guide the first contact member. The first contact member and the first guiding member may be attached to each other, preferably bonded in material. The first contact member and the first guiding member may be manufactured as a single piece. The first contact member may be rigidly connected to the first guiding member. Thus, movement of the first contact member relative to the first guiding member, such as rotational movement or translational movement, may be impossible.

[0046] As used herein, the term "member" is a broad term and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a part or region of any object.

[0047] As further used herein, the term "guiding element" is a broad term and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, any element configured to support the movement of a member in a desired direction. The first guiding member may be configured to be attached to at least one actuator, the at least one actuator being configured to effect a linear movement of the first clamping element.

[0048] As further used herein, the term "contact element" is a broad term and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to those of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, any element configured to directly contact another object. Thus, the contact element may have at least one contact surface, and the at least one contact surface may be used as a support surface for an object.

[0049] The first guiding member may be an elongate element, and the first contact surface may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member. The term "substantially perpendicular" may include a slight deviation from the perpendicular arrangement, such as an arrangement deviating from the perpendicular arrangement by no more than 10 degrees, preferably no more than 5 degrees.

[0050] The first clamping device may have an L-shape. The first guiding member may correspond to the longer arm of the L, which may also be referred to as the vertical arm of the L. The first contact member may correspond to the shorter arm of the L, which may also be specifically referred to as the horizontal arm of the L. The first clamping device may have an L-shape in a side view. In the side view, the longer side of the contact surface having a rectangular basic shape may extend along the extension axis of the shorter arm of the L. Further, in the side view, the shorter side of the contact surface having a rectangular basic shape may extend substantially perpendicular to the extension axis of the shorter arm of the L.

[0051] The first contact member may include at least one surface opposite to the first contact surface. This surface may also be referred to as the rear surface. This surface may be arranged at an angle less than 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member. This surface may be specifically arranged at an angle of 80° to 89° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member. Thus, guiding the first contact member under the slide in the slide tray can be facilitated.

[0052] The first guiding member may include at least one hole, specifically at least one drilled hole. The hole may extend along the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member. The hole may extend along at least 20% of the length of the first guiding member, preferably along at least 30%, and most preferably along at least 40%. Further, the diameter of the hole may correspond to at least 20% of the average diameter of the first guiding member, preferably at least 30%, and most preferably at least 40%. The hole may be configured for strengthening the first guiding element.

[0053] The first contact member may include at least one first end and at least one second end. The first guiding member may be attached to the first contact member at the second end. The thickness of the first contact member may gradually decrease from the second end to the first end. The connection region between the first contact member and the first guiding member may include at least one rounded corner. Thus, guiding the first contact member under the slide in the slide tray can be facilitated.

[0054] The first clamping element may include at least one additional contact surface. The additional contact surface may be a surface of the first guiding member. The additional contact surface may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface. The term "substantially perpendicular" may include a slight deviation from the perpendicular arrangement, such as an arrangement deviating from the perpendicular arrangement by no more than 10 degrees, preferably no more than 5 degrees. The additional contact surface may be configured to provide a reaction force for the slide. The first guiding member may taper in the region of the additional contact surface.

[0055] The second contact surface may extend in a plane defined by axes x and y arranged perpendicular to each other. The second contact surface may include at least one first region and at least one second region. The first region and the second region may have different lengths along axes x and y respectively. The first region and the second region may each have a substantially rectangular shape. The first region and the second region may merge seamlessly with each other. The first region and the second region may extend along the same plane. The second region may be centrally aligned with the first region. The second region may be configured to distribute a holding force on the slide.

[0056] The second contact surface may be substantially T-shaped. The first region may correspond to the horizontal arm of the T. The second region may correspond to the vertical arm of the T.

[0057] The first region may have a length l along axis x 11 and a length l along axis y 12 , and the second region may have a length l along axis x 21 and a length l along axis y 22 . The length l 21 may be greater than the length l 11 , specifically at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 1.7 times, most preferably at least 1.9 times. The length l 12 may be greater than the length l 22 , specifically at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times, most preferably at least 5 times. The length l 12 may be greater than the length l 11 , specifically at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times, most preferably at least 3.5 times. The length l 21 may be greater than the length l 22 , specifically at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times, most preferably at least 2.5 times. The length l 12 may be substantially equal to the width of the slide. Exemplarily, the length l 11 may be 3 mm to 15 mm, preferably 5 mm to 10 mm, and most preferably 6 mm. Further, exemplarily, the length l 12can be from 25 mm to 27 mm, preferably from 25.1 mm to 25.8 mm, and most preferably 25.5 mm. Further, by way of example, the length l 21 can be from 5 mm to 20 mm, preferably from 8 mm to 15 mm, and most preferably 10 mm. Further, by way of example, the length l 22 can be from 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably from 4 mm to 6 mm, and most preferably 5 mm. By way of example, the length l 11 can be 6 mm, the length l 12 can be 25.5 mm, the length l 21 can be 10 mm, and the length l 22 can be 5 mm. However, other dimensions may also be feasible.

[0058] As described above, the first contact surface of the first clamping element may have a rectangular basic shape with a length and a width. The length may be greater than the width. The longer side of the first contact surface of the first clamping element may extend along the axis x. The longer side of the first contact surface of the first clamping element may be substantially parallel to the side of the first region having a length l 11 and may be substantially parallel to the side of the second region having a length l 21 The shorter side of the first contact surface of the first clamping element may extend along the axis y. The shorter side of the first contact surface of the first clamping element may be substantially parallel to the side of the first region having a length l 12 and may be substantially parallel to the side of the second region having a length l 22 When the slide is clamped by the clamping device and arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, the longer side of the slide may extend along the axis x. The longer side of the slide may be substantially parallel to the side of the first region having a length l 11 and may be substantially parallel to the side of the second region having a length l 21 and may be substantially parallel to the longer side of the first contact surface of the first clamping element. Further, when the slide is clamped by the clamping device and arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, the longer side of the slide may extend along the axis x. The longer side of the slide may be substantially parallel to the side of the first region having a length l 12 and may be substantially parallel to the side of the second region having a length l 22 and may be substantially parallel to the shorter side of the first contact surface of the first clamping element.

[0059] The second clamping element may include at least one second contact member having the second contact surface and at least one second guiding member configured to guide the second contact member. Regarding the terms "contact member" and "guiding member", reference is made to the above description. The second contact member and the second guiding member may be attached to each other, preferably bonded in terms of material. The second contact member and the second guiding member may be manufactured as a single piece. The second contact member may be rigidly connected to the second guiding member. Thus, movement of the second contact member relative to the second guiding member, such as rotational movement or translational movement, may be impossible.

[0060] The second guiding member may be configured to be attached to at least one actuator, and the at least one actuator is configured to effect a linear movement of the second clamping element.

[0061] The second guiding member may be an elongate element. The second guiding element may include at least one first end and at least one opposite second end, and the second contact surface may be disposed at the first end of the second guiding element. The second guiding member may taper from the first end to the second end.

[0062] The second contact surface may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second guiding member. The term "substantially perpendicular" may include a slight deviation from a perpendicular arrangement, such as an arrangement deviating from a perpendicular arrangement by no more than 10 degrees, preferably no more than 5 degrees.

[0063] As described above, the second clamping element includes at least two protrusions extending respectively substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface. Specifically, the second clamping element includes two protrusions extending respectively substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface. The at least two protrusions are located at opposite ends of the second contact surface. The at least two protrusions are configured to center the slide during clamping of the slide via the clamping device. As used herein, the term "protrusion" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, at least one element protruding outward from at least one surface of an element (especially perpendicular to the surface of the element). The term "substantially perpendicular" may include a slight deviation from a perpendicular arrangement, such as an arrangement deviating from a perpendicular arrangement by no more than 10 degrees, preferably no more than 5 degrees.

[0064] The protrusions may each have a substantially rectangular shape. The term "substantially rectangular shape" generally refers to any shape, at least part of which may be rectangular. However, the shape may also include other features at the same time, such as exemplary rounded corners. The protrusions may each have a first length and a second length. The first length may specifically correspond to the length l of the first region 11Exemplarily, the first length may be from 3 mm to 15 mm, preferably from 5 mm to 10 mm, and most preferably 6 mm. Further, exemplarily, the second length may be from 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably from 2 mm to 4 mm, and most preferably 3 mm. Exemplarily, the first length may be 6 mm and the second length may be 3 mm. However, other dimensions may also be feasible.

[0065] The distance between the at least two protrusions may be substantially equal to the width of the slide. The term "substantially equal" may mean that the distance between the at least two protrusions is equal to the width of the slide. Further, the term may mean that the distance between the at least two protrusions is slightly greater than the width of the slide.

[0066] The at least two protrusions may be located at opposite ends of the first region of the second contact surface. The length of the protrusion may correspond to the length l of the first region. 11 The protrusion may extend along an axis z perpendicular to axis x and axis y.

[0067] The first guiding member of the first clamping element and the second guiding member of the second clamping element may be arranged parallel to each other. The first guiding member and the second guiding member may be arranged at a distance from each other. The first guiding member and the second guiding member may extend in the same direction. The first guiding member and the second guiding member may extend along axis z respectively. The second region of the second contact surface of the second clamping element may be arranged between the first guiding element and the first region of the second contact surface of the second clamping element.

[0068] In a second aspect of the present invention, a slide transfer device is disclosed. The slide transfer device includes at least one storage device. The storage device may be loaded with a plurality of slides and configured to store the slides. Further, the slide transfer device includes at least one receiving device. The receiving device is configured to receive the slides transferred from the storage device. Further, the slide transfer device includes at least one transfer device. The transfer device is configured to transfer the slides from the storage device to the receiving device. The transfer device includes at least one robotic arm. At least one clamping device as described above or as will be further described in more detail below is arranged at the robotic arm. The clamping device may be specifically arranged at the robotic arm by placing the clamping device on the robotic arm or by forming the clamping device at the robotic arm.

[0069] As used herein, the term "device" is a broad term and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an apparatus having multiple components as more specifically disclosed below. As used herein, the term "slide transfer device" is a broad term and will be given its ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, any device configured to actively transport any slide from one location to another location or vice versa.

[0070] The terms "storage device" and "receiving device" as used herein are broad terms and are given their ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art, and are not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, such a slide repository that is designated to receive individual slide holders, or alternatively to receive more than one slide holder at the same time, where each slide holder is configured to hold more than one slide. In a preferred embodiment, the storage device can include at least two compartments, where each compartment is configured to store a portion of the slides. Herein, a compartment can include at least two rows placed adjacent to each other, and thus, the slides are stored adjacent to each other. Specifically, the storage device can be selected from a slide tray or a slide rack, however, other types of storage devices may also be feasible. However, other types of arrangements of the slides and / or slide holders in the storage device may also be feasible. Thus, the storage device can preferably be manually loaded with multiple slides, however, automatic loading of the storage device is also conceivable.

[0071] As used herein, the term "transfer device" is a broad term and is given its ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a device configured to transfer slides from a storage device to at least one receiving device. For this purpose, the transfer device includes a robotic arm.

[0072] In this text, as used herein, the term "robotic arm" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or customized meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a programmable mechanical unit having the form of at least one of a hand or an arm, and configured to move in a manner similar to a hand or an arm using an electric drive and / or a pneumatic drive, including but not limited to gripping at least one object, particularly a slide or a slide holder, and transferring it to a defined destination. The robotic arm may be a multi-axis robotic arm. Thus, the robotic arm may be configured to move the gripping device in a linear direction along axis x, axis y, and axis z. Further, the robotic arm may be configured to perform a tilting movement of the gripping device.

[0073] The transfer of the slide from the storage device to the at least one receiving device is preferably performed in an automated manner. As used herein, the terms "in an automated manner" and "automatically" are broad terms and are given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and are not limited to a special or customized meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a method that, based on an algorithm configured to perform the slide transfer without manual intervention by a user, performs the method without direct interaction of a user of the slide transfer device.

[0074] In a third aspect of the present invention, a slide imaging device is disclosed. The slide imaging device includes at least one slide transfer device as described above or as will be further described in more detail below. Further, the slide imaging device includes at least one imaging device configured to generate an image of a sample placed on a slide. The imaging device may be a part of the receiving device as described above, or may refer to a separate device.

[0075] As used herein, the term "imaging" or "generating an image" is a broad term and is given the ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art, and is not limited to a special or customized meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, providing a 2D two-dimensional representation of at least one property of a sample, the two-dimensional representation also being represented by the term "image", which can generally be processed and displayed on a screen for viewing by a viewer through the eyes, preferably without any further aids other than the viewer's glasses. For this purpose, an imaging device as disclosed in more detail above is generally used.

[0076] As used herein, the term "imaging device" is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art and should not be limited to a special or custom meaning. The term can specifically refer to, but is not limited to, a device designated to generate a 2D representation of at least one visual property of a sample. In particular, the imaging device can be selected from a 2D camera or a line scan detector. However, other types of imaging devices may also be feasible. Thus, the slide imaging device according to the present invention can include one, two, three, four, five, six or more individual imaging devices, where at least one individual imaging device can be separately processed by a supply device as disclosed in more detail below. Herein, additional imaging devices can in particular be maintained as additional backup options in the case of a failure of more than one imaging device.

[0077] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method for holding at least one slide is disclosed.

[0078] The method includes the following steps, which can specifically be performed in a given order. Further, one or more method steps can be performed once or repeatedly. Further, two or more method steps can be performed simultaneously or in a timely coincidence manner. The method can include other method steps not listed.

[0079] The method for holding at least one slide includes:

[0080] a) providing at least one holding device as described above or as will be further described in more detail below, wherein the first contact surface of the first holding element and the second contact surface of the second holding element are arranged at a distance from each other;

[0081] b) moving the holding device such that the slide is arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface; and

[0082] c) holding the slide via the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0083] In step a), the distance between the first contact surface of the first holding element and the second contact surface of the second holding element can be greater than the thickness of the slide, specifically, at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times.

[0084] In step b), the holding device can be moved via the robotic arm. Further details regarding the robotic arm refer to the description above.

[0085] Before performing step b), the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be horizontally aligned respectively, and can be kept horizontally aligned during the performance of step b). Therefore, in step b), only a combination of horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be performed. This scenario may be particularly advantageous when there is sufficient space for the clamping device to move such that the slide is arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface. Specifically, there may be sufficient free space around the end face of the slide.

[0086] Alternatively, in step b), at least one tilting movement of the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be performed. In addition, horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be performed. This scenario may be particularly advantageous when there is only limited space for the clamping device to move such that the slide is arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface. Specifically, the slide can be arranged in a slide tray, and the slide can be received in the receiving portion of the slide tray, and there can be free space between the frame of the slide tray and one of the end faces of the slide.

[0087] Specifically, step b) may include the following steps:

[0088] b1) Performing at least one first tilting movement of the clamping device such that the slide is arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface; and

[0089] b2) Performing at least one second tilting movement of the clamping device such that the first contact surface and the second contact surface are respectively substantially parallel to the slide, specifically parallel to the sample surface of the slide.

[0090] In step b), the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be respectively arranged at a distance from the slide. The distance between the first contact surface and the second contact surface can correspond to the distance between the first contact surface and the second contact surface in step a).

[0091] In step c), the slide can be clamped between the first contact surface and the second contact surface. In step c), the first contact surface and the second contact surface can be in direct contact with the slide respectively or in direct contact with the slide.

[0092] As described above, the first clamping element may include at least one additional contact surface. The additional contact surface may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface. In step b), the clamping device may be moved such that when the slide is clamped via the first contact surface and the second contact surface in step c), the slide is in direct contact with the additional contact surface.

[0093] Alternatively, in step b), the clamping device may be moved such that when the slide is clamped via the first contact surface and the second contact surface in step c), the slide is arranged at a distance from the additional contact surface. The distance may specifically be 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1.5 mm to 3 mm, and most preferably 2 mm. However, other dimensions may also be feasible.

[0094] Therefore, after performing step c), the following steps may be performed:

[0095] d1) Release the contact between the second contact surface and the slide, specifically by moving the second clamping element;

[0096] d2) Move the clamping device in the direction towards the slide such that when the slide is clamped again via the first contact surface and the second contact surface, the slide is in direct contact with the additional contact surface; and

[0097] d3) Clamp the slide via the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0098] After step c), the slide may be removed from the slide tray via the clamping device.

[0099] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a method for releasing at least one slide is disclosed.

[0100] The method includes the following steps, which may specifically be performed in a given order. Further, one or more method steps may be performed once or repeatedly. Further, two or more method steps may be performed simultaneously or in a timely overlapping manner. The method may include other method steps not listed.

[0101] The method for releasing at least one slide includes the following steps:

[0102] i. Provide at least one clamping device as described above or as will be further described in more detail below, wherein at least one slide is clamped via the first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element;

[0103] ii. Place the slide into the receiving portion of the slide tray;

[0104] iii. Increase the distance between the first contact surface and the second contact surface, specifically by at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times; and

[0105] iv. Remove the clamping device from the slide.

[0106] In steps ii. and iv., the clamping device can be moved via the robotic arm. Further details regarding the robotic arm are referred to the description above.

[0107] In step ii., the slide can be placed in the receiving portion of the slide tray by a combination of only horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. Alternatively, in step ii., the slide can be placed in the receiving portion of the slide tray by at least one tilting movement of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. Further, in addition to the at least one tilting movement, horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface can also be performed.

[0108] In step iv., the clamping device can be removed from the slide by a combination of only horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. Alternatively, in step iv., the clamping device can be removed from the slide by at least one tilting movement of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. Further, in addition to the at least one tilting movement, horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface can also be performed.

[0109] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device is disclosed.

[0110] The method includes the following steps, which can be specifically performed in a given order. Further, one or more method steps can be performed once or repeatedly. Further, two or more method steps can be performed simultaneously or in a timely coincidence manner. The method can include other method steps not listed.

[0111] A method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device includes:

[0112] I. Provide the at least one slide in the storage device;

[0113] II. Clamp the at least one slide via a method for clamping at least one slide as described above or as will be further described in more detail below;

[0114] III. Move the at least one slide from the storage device to the receiving device; and

[0115] IV. Release the at least one slide by a method for releasing at least one slide as described above or as will be described in further detail below.

[0116] In step III., the clamping device can be moved via the robotic arm. Further details regarding the robotic arm refer to the description above.

[0117] In a seventh aspect of the present invention, a method for imaging a plurality of slides is disclosed.

[0118] The method includes the following steps, which can be specifically performed in a given order. Further, one or more method steps can be performed once or repeatedly. Further, two or more method steps can be performed simultaneously or in a timely coincidence manner. The method can include other method steps not listed.

[0119] The method for imaging a plurality of slides includes:

[0120] A. Loading a plurality of slides into a storage device and storing the slides in the storage device;

[0121] B. Transferring the slide from the storage device to a receiving device via a method for transferring at least one slide as described above or as will be described in further detail below;

[0122] And

[0123] C. Generating an image of a sample placed on the slide using an imaging device.

[0124] Further disclosed and proposed herein is a computer program including computer-executable instructions which, when executed on a computer or a computer network, are used to perform one or more of the methods according to the present invention in one or more of the embodiments attached herein. Specifically, the computer program can be stored on a computer-readable data carrier and / or a computer-readable storage medium.

[0125] Thus, specifically, one, more than one, or even all of the following can be performed by using a computer or a computer network, preferably by using a computer program: method steps a) to c) as indicated above, specifically method steps b) and c), the method for clamping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., the method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., the method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., the method for imaging a plurality of slides.

[0126] The present invention further discloses and provides a computer program product having program code means for performing, when the program is executed on a computer or a computer network, more than one or even all of the following: method steps a) to c), specifically method steps b) and c), for gripping at least one slide, as indicated in one or more of the embodiments herein according to the present invention; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., for imaging a plurality of slides. Specifically, the program code means may be stored on a computer-readable data carrier.

[0127] Furthermore, the present invention discloses and provides a data carrier having a data structure stored thereon, which, after being loaded into a computer or a computer network, such as into the working memory or main memory of a computer or a computer network, can perform more than one or even all of the following: method steps a) to c), specifically method steps b) and c), for gripping at least one slide, as indicated in one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., for imaging a plurality of slides.

[0128] The present invention further provides and discloses a computer program product having program code means stored on a machine-readable carrier for performing more than one or even all of the following when the program is executed on a computer or a computer network: method steps a) to c) as indicated above according to one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for gripping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides. As used herein, a computer program product refers to a program as a tradable product. The product can generally exist in any format (such as in a paper format) or on a computer-readable data carrier. Specifically, the computer program product can be distributed over a data network.

[0129] Finally, the present invention provides and discloses a modulated data signal comprising instructions readable by a computer system or a computer network for performing more than one or even all of the following: method steps a) to c) as indicated above according to one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for gripping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides.

[0130] Preferably, with reference to the computer-implemented aspects of the present invention, more than one or even all of the following can be performed by using a computer or a computer network: method steps a) to c) as indicated above according to one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for clamping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides. Thus, generally speaking, any method step including providing and / or manipulating data can be performed by using a computer or a computer network. Generally speaking, these method steps can include any method steps other than those that typically require manual operations (such as certain aspects of providing samples and / or performing actual measurements).

[0131] Specifically, the present invention further discloses:

[0132] - A computer or a computer network, the computer or the computer network including at least one processor, wherein the processor is adapted to perform more than one or even all of the following:

[0133] Method steps a) to c) according to one of the embodiments described in this description, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for clamping at least one slide;

[0134] Method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides,

[0135] - A computer-loadable data structure, the computer-loadable data structure being adapted to perform more than one or even all of the following when the data structure is executed on a computer:

[0136] Method steps a) to c) according to one of the embodiments described in this description, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for clamping at least one slide;

[0137] Method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides,

[0138] - A computer program, which when the program is executed on a computer is adapted to perform more than one or even all of the following: method steps a) to c) according to an embodiment among the embodiments described in this description, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for gripping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides,

[0139] - A computer program, which includes program means that when the computer program is executed on a computer or a computer network is adapted to perform more than one or even all of the following: method steps a) to c) according to an embodiment among the embodiments described in this description, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for gripping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides,

[0140] - A computer program, which includes program means according to the foregoing embodiments, wherein the program means are stored on a computer-readable storage medium,

[0141] - A storage medium, on which a data structure is stored, and wherein the data structure is adapted to perform more than one or even all of the following after being loaded into the main and / or working storage device of a computer of a computer network: method steps a) to c) according to an embodiment described in the description, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for gripping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides, and

[0142] - A computer program product having program code means, wherein the program code means can be stored or is stored on a storage medium and is adapted to perform more than one or even all of the following program means when the program code means is executed on a computer or on a computer network: method steps a) to c) according to an embodiment described in the description, specifically method steps b) and c), a method for gripping at least one slide; method steps i. to iv., specifically method steps ii. to iv., a method for releasing at least one slide; method steps I. to IV., specifically method steps II. to IV., a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and method steps A. to C., a method for imaging a plurality of slides.

[0143] Summarizing and not excluding other possible embodiments, the following embodiments can be envisaged:

[0144] Embodiment 1: A gripping device configured to grip at least one slide, wherein the gripping device comprises:

[0145] · At least one first gripping element, wherein the first gripping element comprises at least one first contact surface for gripping the slide;

[0146] · At least one second gripping element, wherein the second gripping element comprises at least one second contact surface for gripping the slide, wherein the second gripping element further comprises at least two protrusions extending substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface respectively, wherein the at least two protrusions are located at opposite ends of the second contact surface, and wherein the at least two protrusions are configured to center the slide during gripping of the slide via the gripping device;

[0147] wherein the first gripping element and the second gripping element are linearly movable relative to each other, wherein

[0148] The first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element face each other.

[0149] Example 2: The clamping device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the first surface of the first clamping element and the second surface of the second clamping element are substantially planar.

[0150] Example 3: The clamping device according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the slide includes at least one sample surface configured to receive at least one sample and at least one opposite rear surface, wherein the first contact surface of the first clamping element is configured to contact the rear surface, and wherein the second contact surface of the second clamping element is configured to contact the sample surface.

[0151] Example 4: The clamping device according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the distance between the at least two protrusions is substantially equal to the width of the slide.

[0152] Example 5: The clamping device according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first contact surface of the first clamping element has a rectangular basic shape.

[0153] Example 6: The clamping device according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first contact surface of the first clamping element has a length and a width, wherein the length exceeds the width by at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times, and most preferably at least 2.5 times.

[0154] Example 7: The clamping device according to any one of the previous embodiments, wherein the first clamping element includes at least one first contact member having the first contact surface and at least one first guiding member configured to guide the first contact member.

[0155] Example 8: The clamping device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the first contact member and the first guiding member are attached to each other, preferably bonded in material.

[0156] Example 9: The clamping device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the first contact member and the first guiding member are manufactured as a single piece.

[0157] Example 10: The clamping device according to any one of the three previous embodiments, wherein the first guiding member is an elongated element, and wherein the first contact surface is arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member.

[0158] Example 11: The clamping device according to the previous embodiment, wherein the first contact member includes at least one surface opposite to the first contact surface, and wherein the surface is arranged at an angle less than 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member.

[0159] Example 12: The clamping device according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the surface is arranged at an angle of 80° to 89° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member.

[0160] Example 13: The clamping device according to any one of the three foregoing embodiments, wherein the first guiding member includes at least one hole, specifically at least one drilled hole, and the hole extends along the longitudinal axis of the first guiding member.

[0161] Example 14: The clamping device according to any one of the seven foregoing embodiments, wherein the first guiding member is configured to be attached to at least one actuator, and the actuator is configured to effect a linear movement of the first clamping element.

[0162] Example 15: The clamping device according to any one of the eight foregoing embodiments, wherein the first contact member includes at least one first end portion and at least one second end portion, the first guiding member is attached to the first contact member at the second end portion, and the thickness of the first contact member gradually decreases from the second end portion to the first end portion.

[0163] Example 16: The clamping device according to any one of the nine foregoing embodiments, wherein the connection region between the first contact member and the first guiding member includes at least one rounded corner.

[0164] Example 17: The clamping device according to any one of the ten foregoing embodiments, wherein the first clamping element includes at least one additional contact surface, and the additional contact surface is arranged substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface.

[0165] Example 18: The clamping device according to the foregoing embodiment, wherein the additional contact surface is configured to provide a reaction force to the slide.

[0166] Example 19: The clamping device according to any one of the two foregoing embodiments, wherein the additional contact surface is a surface of the first guiding member.

[0167] Example 20: The clamping device according to any one of the three foregoing embodiments, wherein the first guiding member is tapered in the region of the additional contact surface.

[0168] Example 21: The clamping device according to any one of the four foregoing embodiments, wherein the first clamping element is substantially L-shaped.

[0169] Example 22: The clamping device according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the second contact surface is substantially T-shaped.

[0170] Example 23: A clamping device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the second contact surface extends in a plane defined by an axis x and an axis y arranged perpendicular to each other, wherein the second contact surface comprises at least one first region and at least one second region, and wherein the first region and the second region have different lengths along the axis x and the axis y respectively.

[0171] Example 24: A clamping device according to the preceding example, wherein the first region and the second region each have a substantially rectangular shape.

[0172] Example 25: A clamping device according to any one of the two preceding examples, wherein the second region is centrally aligned with the first region.

[0173] Example 26: A clamping device according to any one of the three preceding examples, wherein the second region is configured to distribute a holding force on the slide.

[0174] Example 27: A clamping device according to any one of the four preceding examples, wherein the at least two protrusions are located on opposite ends of the first region.

[0175] Example 28: A clamping device according to any one of the five preceding examples, wherein the first region has a length l along the axis x 11 and a length l along the axis y 12 , wherein the second region has a length l along the axis x 21 and a length l along the axis y 22 .

[0176] Example 29: A clamping device according to the preceding example, wherein the length l 21 is greater than the length l 11 , specifically at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 1.7 times, most preferably at least 1.9 times.

[0177] Example 30: A clamping device according to any one of the two preceding examples, wherein the length l 12 is greater than the length l 22 , specifically at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times, most preferably at least 5 times.

[0178] Example 31: A clamping device according to any one of the three preceding examples, wherein the length l 12 is greater than the length l 11 , specifically at least 2 times, preferably at least 3 times, most preferably at least 3.5 times.

[0179] Example 32: A clamping device according to any one of the four preceding examples, wherein the length l 21 is greater than the length l 22, specifically at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times, most preferably at least 2.5 times.

[0180] Example 33: A clamping device according to any one of the five foregoing examples, wherein the length l 12 is substantially equal to the width of the slide.

[0181] Example 34: A clamping device according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the second clamping element includes at least one second contact member having the second contact surface and at least one second guiding member configured to guide the second contact member.

[0182] Example 35: A clamping device according to the foregoing example, wherein the second contact member and the second guiding member are attached to each other, preferably bonded in material.

[0183] Example 36: A clamping device according to the foregoing example, wherein the second contact member and the second guiding member are manufactured as a single piece.

[0184] Example 37: A clamping device according to any one of the three foregoing examples, wherein the second guiding member is an elongated element, wherein the second guiding element includes at least one first end and at least one opposite second end, and wherein the second contact surface is arranged at the first end of the second guiding element.

[0185] Example 38: A clamping device according to the foregoing example, wherein the second guiding member tapers from the first end to the second end.

[0186] Example 39: A clamping device according to any one of the five foregoing examples, wherein the second contact surface is arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second guiding member.

[0187] Example 40: A clamping device according to any one of the six foregoing examples, wherein the second guiding member is configured to be attached to at least one actuator, the actuator being configured to effect a linear movement of the second clamping element.

[0188] Example 41: A slide transfer device, wherein the slide transfer device includes:

[0189] · At least one storage device, wherein the storage device can be loaded with a plurality of slides and is configured to store the slides;

[0190] · At least one receiving device, wherein the receiving device is configured to receive the slides transferred from the storage device; and

[0191] · At least one transfer device, wherein the transfer device is configured to transfer the slide from the storage device to the receiving device, wherein the transfer device includes at least one robotic arm, and wherein at least one clamping device according to any one of the preceding claims is arranged at the robotic arm.

[0192] Example 42: The slide transfer device according to the preceding example, wherein the robotic arm is a multi-axis robotic arm.

[0193] Example 43: A slide imaging device, wherein the slide imaging device includes:

[0194] · At least one slide transfer device according to any one of the preceding claims; and

[0195] · At least one imaging device configured to generate an image of a sample placed on the slide.

[0196] Example 44: A method for clamping at least one slide, wherein the method includes:

[0197] a) Providing a clamping device according to any one of the preceding claims relating to a clamping device, wherein the first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element are arranged at a distance from each other;

[0198] b) Moving the clamping device such that the slide is arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface; and

[0199] c) Clamping the slide via the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0200] Example 45: The method according to the preceding example, wherein in step a), the distance between the first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element is greater than the thickness of the slide.

[0201] Example 46: The method according to any one of the two preceding examples, wherein before performing step b), the first contact surface and the second contact surface are horizontally aligned respectively and remain horizontally aligned during the performance of step b).

[0202] Example 47: The method according to any one of the three preceding examples, wherein in step b), at least one tilting movement of the first contact surface and the second contact surface is performed.

[0203] Example 48: The method according to the preceding example, wherein step b) includes the following steps:

[0204] b1) Perform at least one first tilting movement of the clamping device such that the glass slide is arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface; and

[0205] b2) Perform at least one second tilting movement of the clamping device such that the first contact surface and the second contact surface are respectively aligned substantially parallel to the glass slide.

[0206] Example 49: A method according to any one of the five foregoing examples, wherein in step b), the first contact surface and the second contact surface are respectively arranged at a distance from the glass slide.

[0207] Example 50: A method according to any one of the six foregoing examples, wherein in step c), the first contact surface and the second contact surface are respectively in direct contact with the glass slide.

[0208] Example 51: A method according to any one of the seven foregoing examples, wherein in step c), the glass slide is clamped between the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0209] Example 52: A method according to any one of the eight foregoing examples, wherein the first clamping element includes at least one additional contact surface, and the additional contact surface is arranged substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface.

[0210] Example 53: A method according to the foregoing examples, wherein in step b), the clamping device is moved such that when the glass slide is clamped via the first contact surface and the second contact surface in step c), the glass slide is in direct contact with the additional contact surface.

[0211] Example 54: A method according to any one of the two foregoing examples, wherein in step b), the clamping device is moved such that when the glass slide is clamped via the first contact surface and the second contact surface in step c), the glass slide is arranged at a distance from the additional contact surface.

[0212] Example 55: A method according to the foregoing examples, wherein after performing step c), the following steps are performed:

[0213] d1) Release the contact between the second contact surface and the glass slide, specifically by moving the second clamping element;

[0214] d2) Move the clamping device in the direction towards the glass slide such that when the glass slide is clamped again via the first contact surface and the second contact surface, the glass slide is in direct contact with the additional contact surface; and

[0215] d3) Clamp the glass slide via the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0216] Example 56: A method according to any one of the twelve preceding examples, wherein after step c), the slide is removed from the slide tray via the clamping device.

[0217] Example 57: A method for releasing at least one slide, wherein the method comprises:

[0218] i. providing a clamping device according to any one of the preceding claims relating to a clamping device, wherein at least one slide is clamped via the first contact surface of the first clamping element and the second contact surface of the second clamping element;

[0219] ii. placing the slide into a receiving portion of a slide tray;

[0220] iii. increasing the distance between the first contact surface and the second contact surface; and

[0221] iv. removing the clamping device from the slide.

[0222] Example 58: A method according to the preceding example, wherein in step ii, the slide is placed into the receiving portion of the slide tray by a combination of only horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0223] Example 59: A method according to any one of the two preceding examples, wherein in step ii, the slide is placed into the receiving portion of the slide tray by at least one tilting movement of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0224] Example 60: A method according to any one of the three preceding examples, wherein in step iv, the clamping device is removed from the slide by a combination of only horizontal and vertical movements of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0225] Example 61: A method according to any one of the four preceding examples, wherein in step iv, the clamping device is removed from the slide by at least one tilting movement of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0226] Example 62: A method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device, wherein the method comprises:

[0227] I. providing the at least one slide in the storage device;

[0228] II. clamping the at least one slide via a method for clamping at least one slide according to any one of the preceding claims relating to a method for clamping at least one slide;

[0229] III. Move the at least one slide from the storage device to the receiving device; and

[0230] IV. Release the at least one slide by means of a method for releasing at least one slide according to any one of the preceding claims relating to a method for releasing at least one slide.

[0231] Example 63: A method for imaging a plurality of slides, the method comprising the steps of:

[0232] A. Load a plurality of slides into a storage device and store the slides in the storage device;

[0233] B. Transfer the slides from the storage device to a receiving device by means of a method for transferring at least one slide according to a method for transferring at least one slide from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device; and

[0234] C. Generate an image of a sample placed on the slide using the imaging device. Description of the Drawings

[0235] Other optional features and embodiments will be disclosed in more detail in the following description of embodiments, preferably in conjunction with the dependent claims. Wherein, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art, the various optional features can be implemented individually and in any feasible combination. The scope of the present invention is not limited by the preferred embodiments. Embodiments are schematically depicted in the drawings. Among them, the same reference numerals in these drawings refer to the same or functionally equivalent elements.

[0236] In the drawings:

[0237] Figure 1 A preferred embodiment of the first clamping element of the clamping device according to the present invention is schematically shown;

[0238] Figure 2 A preferred embodiment of the second clamping element of the clamping device according to the present invention is schematically shown;

[0239] Figure 3 A preferred embodiment of the clamping device according to the present invention is schematically shown;

[0240] Figures 4A to 4C An exemplary embodiment of a method for clamping a slide according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0241] Figure 1Schematically shows a preferred embodiment of the first clamping element 110 of the clamping device according to the present invention. The first clamping element 110 is shown in perspective view.

[0242] The first clamping element 110 includes at least one first contact surface 112 for clamping a glass slide ( Figure 1 not shown in the figure). The first contact surface 112 may be substantially planar. The first contact surface 112 of the first clamping element 110 may have a rectangular basic shape. The first contact surface 112 may have a length l and a width w, where the length l exceeds the width w by at least 1.5 times.

[0243] The first clamping element 110 may include at least one first contact member 114 having the first contact surface 112 and at least one first guiding member 116 configured to guide the first contact member 114. The first contact member 114 and the first guiding member 116 may be exemplarily manufactured as a single piece.

[0244] The first guiding member 116 may be an elongated element. The first contact surface 112 may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 118 of the first guiding member 116.

[0245] The first contact member 114 may include at least one surface 120 opposite to the first contact surface 112. The surface 120 may be arranged at an angle α less than 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis 118 of the first guiding member 116.

[0246] The first contact member 114 may include at least one first end 122 and at least one opposite second end 124. The first guiding member 114 may be attached to the first contact member 114 at the second end 124. The thickness t of the first contact member 114 may gradually decrease from the second end 124 to the first end 122.

[0247] The first guiding member 116 may be configured to be attached to at least one actuator (not shown), the at least one actuator being configured to effect a linear movement of the first clamping element 110. For this purpose, the first guiding member may include at least one hole 126 for attaching the first clamping element 110 to the actuator.

[0248] The connection region 128 between the first contact member 114 and the first guiding member 116 may include at least one rounded corner 130.

[0249] The first clamping element 110 may include at least one additional contact surface 132. The additional contact surface 132 may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface 112. The additional contact surface 132 may be configured to provide a reaction force for the slide. The additional contact surface 132 may be a surface of the first guiding member 116. The first guiding member 116 may taper in the region of the additional contact surface 132.

[0250] Figure 2 A preferred embodiment of the second clamping element 134 of the clamping device according to the invention is schematically shown. The second clamping element 134 is shown in perspective.

[0251] The second clamping element 134 includes at least one second contact surface 136 for clamping a slide ( Figure 2 not shown). The second contact surface 136 may be substantially planar. Figure 3 A detailed view of the second contact surface 136 is provided.

[0252] The second clamping element 134 may include at least one second contact member 138 having the second contact surface 136 and at least one second guiding member 140 configured to guide the second contact member 138. The second contact member 138 and the second guiding member 140 may be attached to each other, preferably bonded in material.

[0253] The second guiding member 140 may be an elongate element. The second guiding element 140 may include at least one first end 142 and at least one opposite second end 144. The second contact surface 136 may be arranged at the first end 142 of the second guiding element 140. The second guiding member 138 may taper from the first end 142 towards the second end 144.

[0254] The second contact surface 136 may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 146 of the second guiding member 140.

[0255] The second guiding member 140 may be configured to be attached to at least one actuator (not shown), the at least one actuator being configured to effect a linear movement of the second clamping element. For this purpose, the second guiding member 140 may include at least one hole 148 for attaching the second guiding member 140 to the actuator.

[0256] Figure 3 A preferred embodiment of the clamping device 150 according to the invention is schematically shown. The clamping device 150 is shown in perspective. The clamping device 150 includes at least one first clamping element 110 and at least one second clamping element 134. The first clamping element 110 corresponds to the first clamping element 110, as Figure 1 shown. Accordingly, reference is made to the aboveFigure 1 description. The second clamping element 134 corresponds to the second clamping element 134, as Figure 2 shown. Thus, referring to the above Figure 2 description.

[0257] Figure 3 Different views on the first guiding part 116 of the first clamping element 110 are realized. As Figure 3 shown, the first guiding part 116 may include at least one hole 152, specifically at least one drilled hole 154. The hole 152 may extend along the longitudinal axis 118 of the first guiding part 116.

[0258] Furthermore, Figure 3 a detailed view of the second contact surface 136 of the second clamping element 134 is realized. The second contact surface 136 may be substantially T-shaped. The second contact surface 136 may extend in a plane defined by an axis x and an axis y arranged perpendicular to each other. The second contact surface 136 may include at least one first region 156 and at least one second region 158. The first region 156 and the second region 158 may have different lengths along the axis x and the axis y respectively. The first region 156 and the second region 158 may each have a substantially rectangular shape. The second region 158 may be centered with respect to the first region 156. The second region 158 may be configured to distribute a holding force on the slide. The first region 156 may have a length l 11 along the axis x and a length l 12 along the axis y. The second region 158 may have a length l 21 along the axis x and a length l 22 along the axis y. The length l 21 may be greater than the length l 11 , specifically at least 1.9 times. The length l 12 may be greater than the length l 22 , specifically at least 5 times. The length l 12 may be greater than the length l 11 , specifically at least 3.5 times. The length l 21 may be greater than the length l 22 , specifically at least 2.5 times. The length l 12 may be substantially equal to the width of the slide.

[0259] The second clamping element 134 further includes at least two protrusions 160 extending substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface 136 respectively. The protrusions 160 are in Figure 2 and Figure 3As can be seen. At least two protrusions 160 are located on opposite ends 162 of the second contact surface 136. The at least two protrusions 160 are configured to center the slide during clamping of the slide via the clamping device 150. The distance between the at least two protrusions 160 can be substantially equal to the width of the slide. The at least two protrusions 160 can be located on opposite ends 164 of the first region 156. The first region 156 can be connected to the second guiding member 138 via a rod 166 extending transversely to the longitudinal axis 146. Specifically, the ends 164 of the first region 156 can be connected to the second guiding member 140 via the rods 166, respectively.

[0260] Figures 4A to 4C An exemplary embodiment of a method for clamping a slide 168 according to the present invention is shown. As Figures 4A to 4C The clamping device 150 shown corresponds to the clamping device 150 shown as Figure 3 Therefore, refer to the description above Figure 3 for reference.

[0261] As Figure 4A shown, the slide 168 can be received in the slide tray 170. The slide 168 can be received in the receiving portion 172 of the slide tray 170. There may be a gap 174 between the frame 176 of the slide tray 170 and the end face 178 of the slide 168. The slide 169 can have a sample surface 182 and an opposite rear surface 184.

[0262] As Figure 4A further shown, a clamping device 150 is provided, and the first contact surface 112 of the first clamping element 110 and the second contact surface 136 of the second clamping element 134 are arranged at a distance from each other. The clamping device 150 is moved such that the slide 168 is arranged between the first contact surface 112 and the second contact surface 136, specifically via the gap 174. The clamping device 150 can be moved via the robotic arm 180. Specifically, the first contact surface 112 of the first clamping element 110 can be brought below the rear surface 184 of the slide 168 on the end face 178 of the slide 168.

[0263] As Figure 4A shown, at least one first tilting movement of the clamping device 150, specifically, at least one first tilting movement of the first contact surface 112 and the second contact surface 136, enables the slide 168 to be arranged between the first contact surface 112 and the second contact surface 136. The first tilting movement can be performed by the robotic arm 180.

[0264] As Figure 4BAs shown, the clamping device 150 can be moved such that when the slide 168 is clamped via the first contact surface 112 and the second contact surface 136, the slide 168 is arranged at a distance from the additional contact surface 132.

[0265] Thereafter, as Figure 4C shown, the contact between the second contact surface 136 and the slide 168 can be released, specifically, by moving the second clamping element 134, and the clamping device 150 can be moved in the direction towards the slide 168 such that when the slide 168 is clamped again via the first contact surface 112 and the second contact surface 136, the slide 168 is in direct contact with the additional contact surface 132.

[0266] List of Reference Numerals

[0267] 110 First clamping element

[0268] 112 First contact surface

[0269] 114 First contact member

[0270] 116 First guiding member

[0271] 118 Longitudinal axis

[0272] 120 Surface

[0273] 122 First end

[0274] 124 Second end

[0275] 126 Hole

[0276] 128 Connection area

[0277] 130 Fillet

[0278] 132 Additional contact surface

[0279] 134 Second clamping element

[0280] 136 Second contact surface

[0281] 138 Second contact member

[0282] 140 Second guiding member

[0283] 142 First end

[0284] 144 Second end

[0285] 146 Longitudinal axis

[0286] 148 Hole

[0287] 150 Clamping device

[0288] 152 Hole

[0289] 154 Drilled hole

[0290] 156 First region

[0291] 158 Second region

[0292] 160 Protrusion

[0293] 162 End

[0294] 164 End

[0295] 166 Rod

[0296] 168 Slide

[0297] 170 Slide tray

[0298] 172 Receiving portion

[0299] 174 Gap

[0300] 176 Frame

[0301] 178 End face

[0302] 180 Robot arm

[0303] 182 Sample surface

[0304] 184 Rear surface

Claims

1. A clamping device (150) configured to clamp at least one slide (168), wherein the clamping device (150) comprises: · At least one first clamping element (110), wherein the first clamping element (110) comprises at least one first contact surface (112) for clamping the slide (168); · At least one second clamping element (134), wherein the second clamping element (134) comprises at least one second contact surface (136) for clamping the slide (168), wherein the second clamping element (134) further comprises at least two protrusions (160) extending substantially perpendicular to the second contact surface (136), wherein the at least two protrusions (160) are located on opposite ends (162) of the second contact surface (136), wherein the at least two protrusions (160) are configured to center the slide (168) during clamping of the slide (168) via the clamping device (150); Wherein the first clamping element (110) and the second clamping element (134) are linearly movable relative to each other, wherein the first contact surface (112) of the first clamping element (110) and the second contact surface (136) of the second clamping element (134) face each other, wherein the slide (168) comprises at least one sample surface (182) configured to receive at least one sample and at least one opposite rear surface (184), wherein the first contact surface (112) of the first clamping element (110) is configured to contact the rear surface (184), and wherein the second contact surface (136) of the second clamping element (134) is configured to contact the sample surface (182).

2. The clamping device (150) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first clamping element (110) comprises at least one first contact member (114) having the first contact surface (112) and at least one first guiding member (116) configured to guide the first contact member (114), wherein the first contact surface (112) is arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (118) of the first guiding member (116).

3. The clamping device (150) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first contact member (114) comprises at least one surface (120) opposite to the first contact surface (112), wherein the surface (120) is arranged at an angle less than 90° with respect to the longitudinal axis (118) of the first guiding member (116).

4. The clamping device (150) according to any one of the two preceding claims, wherein the first clamping element (110) comprises at least one additional contact surface (132), wherein the additional contact surface (132) is arranged substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface (112), and wherein the additional contact surface (132) is configured to provide a reaction force for the slide (168).

5. The clamping device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second contact surface (136) is substantially T-shaped.

6. The clamping device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second contact surface (136) extends in a plane defined by an axis x and an axis y arranged perpendicular to each other, wherein the second contact surface (136) comprises at least one first region (156) and at least one second region (158), wherein the first region (156) and the second region (158) have different lengths along the axis x and the axis y respectively, wherein the first region (156) and the second region (158) each have a substantially rectangular shape, and wherein the second region (158) is centered with respect to the first region (156).

7. The clamping device (150) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least two protrusions (160) are located at opposite ends of the first region (156).

8. A slide transfer device, wherein the slide transfer device comprises: · at least one storage device, wherein the storage device is loadable with a plurality of slides (168) and is configured to store the slides (168); · at least one receiving device, wherein the receiving device is configured to receive the slides (168) transferred from the storage device; and · at least one transfer device, wherein the transfer device is configured to transfer the slides (168) from the storage device to the receiving device, wherein the transfer device comprises at least one robotic arm, and wherein at least one clamping device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims is arranged at the robotic arm.

9. A slide imaging device, wherein the slide imaging device comprises: · at least one slide transfer device according to the preceding claim; and · at least one imaging device configured to generate an image of a sample placed on a slide (168).

10. A method for clamping at least one slide (168), wherein the method comprises: a) providing at least one clamping device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims relating to the clamping device (150), wherein the first contact surface (112) of the first clamping element (110) and the second contact surface (136) of the second clamping element (134) are arranged at a distance from each other; b) Move the clamping device (150) such that the slide (168) is disposed between the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136); and c) Clamp the slide (168) via the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136).

11. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein in step b), at least one tilting movement of the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136) is performed, and step b) comprises the steps of: b1) Perform at least one first tilting movement of the clamping device (150) such that the slide (168) is disposed between the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136); and b2) Perform at least one second tilting movement of the clamping device (150) such that the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136) are respectively aligned substantially parallel to the slide (168).

12. The method according to any one of the two preceding claims, wherein the first clamping element (110) comprises at least one additional contact surface (132), wherein the additional contact surface (132) is disposed substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface (112), and in step b), the clamping device (150) is moved such that when the slide (168) is clamped via the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136) in step c), the slide (168) is disposed at a distance from the additional contact surface (132), and after performing step c), the following steps are performed: d1) Release the contact between the second contact surface (136) and the slide (168); d2) Move the clamping device (150) in the direction towards the slide (168) such that when the slide (168) is clamped again via the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136), the slide (168) is in direct contact with the additional contact surface; and d3) Clamp the slide (168) via the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136).

13. A method for releasing at least one slide (168), wherein the method comprises: i. Provide a clamping device (150) according to any one of the preceding claims relating to a clamping device (150), wherein at least one slide (168) is clamped via the first contact surface (112) of the first clamping element (110) and the second contact surface (136) of the second clamping element (134); ii. Place the slide (168) into a receiving portion of a slide tray (170); iii. Increase the distance between the first contact surface (112) and the second contact surface (136); and iv. Remove the holding device (150) from the slide (168).

14. A method for transferring at least one slide (168) from at least one storage device to at least one receiving device, the method comprising: I. Providing the at least one slide (168) in the storage device; II. Gripping the at least one slide (168) via the method for gripping at least one slide (168) according to any one of claims 10 to 12; III. Moving the at least one slide (168) from the storage device to the receiving device; and IV. Releasing the at least one slide (168) via the method for releasing at least one slide (168) according to claim 13.

15. A method for imaging a plurality of slides (168), the method comprising the steps of: A. Loading a plurality of slides (168) into a storage device and storing the slides (168) in the storage device; B. Transferring the slides (168) from the storage device to a receiving device via the method for transferring at least one slide (168) according to claim 14; and C. Generating an image of a sample placed on the slide (168) using an imaging device.

Images