Automated device and method for treating sample-bearing microscope slide with reagent fluid

Abstract

An automated device and method for separately and simultaneously processing a plurality of microscope slides carrying a plurality of samples with a plurality of reagent fluids under user-defined operating parameters in a controlled environment to achieve consistent results without being affected by internal and external operating conditions of the device. A controllable, flexible, efficient, accurate, precise and reliable device and method for treating a microscope slide carrying a sample with a reagent fluid while keeping the components stationary during operation of the device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an "automated apparatus and method for treating a microscope slide carrying a sample using a reagent fluid", and more specifically to a controllable, flexible, efficient, accurate, precise and reliable apparatus and method for controlling the staining process so as to obtain consistent results regardless of internal and external operating conditions of the apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] "Staining" is a technique used in histology, cytology, histopathology, hematology, and cytopathology to identify the presence, quality, quantity, and structure of specific cells, organelles, and tissues in a sample. It is a crucial process for disease diagnosis at the microscopic level. The staining process involves sequentially applying specific types of dyes, reagents, liquids, or fluids to a sample placed on a microscope slide in a specific manner; these dyes, reagents, liquids, and fluids are also referred to as "staining agents."

[0003] Traditional manual staining methods are labor-intensive, prone to human error, inconsistent in results, and time-consuming. They may require skilled workers and have low throughput, which is a disadvantage for laboratories that need to process hundreds of samples in a short period.

[0004] Another typical staining method involves immersing a set of microscope slides carrying the samples into a staining reagent container. This method can lead to dilution and contamination of the reagent fluid because slides immersed in one reagent are then immersed in another before the traces of the first reagent have been completely removed from their surface. This can also lead to cross-contamination of samples, and the samples may shift from one slide to another. When the samples are immersed in liquid reagent, they may disperse into the reagent itself and then be transferred to another batch of microscope slides carrying the samples. These situations can unintentionally lead to misdiagnosis and improper analysis of the samples.

[0005] Alternatively, using fresh reagent fluid in each new operating cycle would unnecessarily increase operating costs due to the use of large quantities of reagent fluid. Furthermore, the reagent containers used in these systems are open and exposed to the atmosphere and external contaminants, which could affect their performance, consistency, accuracy, and reliability—all critical to any scientific process.

[0006] Automated equipment processes the slides in a specific manner during staining and has no manual control over the operation, thus it cannot stain various samples to be analyzed using different reagents.

[0007] In addition, some automated equipment either moves the microscope slide carrying the sample or moves the reagent delivery system, which may cause collisions and damage to the system and the sample.

[0008] This can also cause sample displacement during the process. These systems are large, complex, and very difficult to clean. This leads to increased time and cost for repair and maintenance, which inevitably affects the user's work.

[0009] In some instruments, the microscope slides carrying the samples are placed vertically, resulting in insufficient contact between the staining agent and the sample to be analyzed. On the other hand, horizontal placement does not allow excess reagent to drain. Furthermore, improper placement of the microscope slides during the process can cause unnecessary contact between the staining agent and other surfaces of the slides, which can affect the visibility of the sample on the slides during microscopic observation.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for a simple, user-friendly, research-friendly, and easy-to-use automated device for processing microscope slides carrying samples using reagent fluids, which can eliminate all the above-mentioned problems and can accurately, precisely, reliably, controllably, flexibly, and consistently process microscope slides carrying samples using reagent fluids under all conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The invention disclosed herein is successfully designed to address existing problems and provide an optimal solution for the simultaneous staining of multiple individual microscope slides.

[0012] The main objective of this invention is to provide a flexible, controllable, accurate, precise, reliable, and consistent device for simultaneously staining multiple individual microscope slides, regardless of the number of microscope slides, the type of samples mounted on the microscope slides, or the type of staining reagent required for the process.

[0013] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device that can perform the staining process with high throughput and consistency, regardless of the number of glass slides carrying the sample or the amount of reagents required.

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device that can perform a staining process while keeping the microscope slide carrying the sample and the reagent delivery equipment stationary.

[0015] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device that can perform a staining process using precise and optimal volumes of staining reagent, thereby avoiding waste and reducing operating costs.

[0016] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device that can perform a staining process without cross-contamination between multiple microscope slides carrying samples.

[0017] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device that can perform a dyeing process without dilution and / or contamination of the dyeing reagent fluid.

[0018] The purpose of this invention is to provide microscope slide holding trays of various shapes and sizes to hold microscope slides carrying samples in a specific static position and orientation, thereby avoiding sample displacement, microscope slide damage, system component damage, and cross-contamination of microscope slides.

[0019] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device capable of performing a dyeing process, protecting the system from external contamination and factors that may hinder a clean, accurate, and consistent dyeing process.

[0020] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device capable of performing a staining process, allowing the user to control various operating parameters, including but not limited to the number of microscope slides carrying the sample, the quantity of reagent fluid and its delivery sequence and quantity, and the temperature of the reagent fluid in the system.

[0021] The purpose of this invention is to provide an automated device capable of performing staining processes, allowing users to control process parameters, a variety of reagent fluids that can be used, and multiple microscope slides carrying samples that can be processed separately and simultaneously. The invention is also intended for use in various experiments and studies, with the aim of investigating the effects of reagent fluids with specific chemical and physical properties on specific types of samples, and further developing specific types of reagent fluids with specific chemical and physical properties, as well as new procedures for processing various types of samples to obtain better and faster results. Invention Overview At least in some embodiments of the invention, an apparatus is provided for the controlled treatment of multiple microscope slides using a variety of reagent fluids, comprising a housing (102) that houses components of the apparatus, and a door (103) connected to the housing (102) that provides access to a staining region (209) within the housing (102) for treating multiple microscope slides using a variety of reagent fluids. The housing (102) is thermally insulated from the external environment to eliminate heat transfer between the apparatus (101) and the surrounding environment, thereby providing a controlled environment for the apparatus (101) to operate with optimal efficiency without external influences. The housing (102) protects the system from external contamination and factors that may hinder a clean, accurate, and consistent staining process.

[0023] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the invention, the housing (102) is provided with a drain outlet (106) that transfers the used reagent fluid to a drain reservoir; a vent with a filter (107) for clean filtered airflow to keep the components of the device (101) well ventilated; and a controller (108) connected to the housing (102) to enable the user to control various parameters of the process and to serve as a communication interface between the user and the device (101).

[0024] In some embodiments of the invention, the staining regions (209) within the housing (202) have multiple arrangement patterns to simultaneously accommodate a slide tray platform (211), a slide tray (210) for holding microscope slides carrying samples, a support structure (212), and a collection tray (213) in a specific configuration, thereby enabling the device (201) to operate at an optimal level.

[0025] Furthermore, in some embodiments of the present invention, the device is provided with a plurality of slide trays (210) having a variety of arrangement patterns for separating and simultaneously holding a plurality of microscope slides in a flat horizontal groove, or tilting a horizontal groove, depending on the configuration of the slide trays (210) used, thereby tilting them throughout operation; and is provided with a slide tray platform (211) having a variety of arrangement patterns, thereby enabling the separation and simultaneous holding of a plurality of slide trays (210).

[0026] In another embodiment of the invention, the slide tray (310) has an opening on one side for inserting and removing a microscope slide from the slide tray (310), and a narrow opening on the side opposite to the first opening, positioned at a height lower than the first opening to allow reagent fluid flowing over the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide to drain. The slide tray (310) also has a gripping space, which allows operation and access to the slide tray (310) without contacting any surface of the microscope slide carrying the sample, and the slide tray (310) is detachable.

[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, the slide tray platform (211) has spaced openings for allowing used reagent fluid discharged from the slide tray (210) to drain, and is provided with gripping spaces that allow operation and access to the slide tray platform (211) without contacting any surface of the microscope slide carrying the sample, and the slide tray platform (211) is removable. The slide tray platform (211) may also include mechanisms for collecting and transferring used reagent fluid to the drain outlet (206).

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, a collection tray (213) is provided below the slide tray platform (211) to collect all used reagent fluid that flows across the surface of the microscope slide carrying the sample and through the discharge openings in the slide tray (210) and the slide tray platform (211). The collection tray (213) includes walls to prevent used reagent fluid from flowing outside the collection tray (210) and to guide the flow toward the discharge outlet (206).

[0029] In some embodiments of the invention, the device is provided with the support structure (212) which can position multiple slide tray platforms (211) within the staining area (209) from a horizontal position to any tilt angle, depending on the process and user requirements, and also on the configuration of the slide trays (310) used, thereby keeping them stationary throughout operation. The support structure (212) is also capable of placing the collection tray (213) at a specific angle and position within the staining area (209) in a stationary position.

[0030] In another embodiment of the invention, the reagent container (204) contains various types of reagent fluids required for multiple operating cycle cycles. The reagent container is removable, refillable, and even replaceable by the user when needed, thus providing operational efficiency and flexibility. The reagent container (204) is equipped with a filter to prevent any contaminants or solid particles from entering the reagent fluid delivery system (414). The reagent container (204) is connected to a smart sensor and indicator that acquires information about the volume of reagent fluid present in the reagent container (204), the type of reagent fluid in the reagent container (204), and its chemical and physical properties, and transmits this information to the controller (208) so that the user can take subsequent actions. Furthermore, a conduit (205) is connected to the reagent container (204) to enable the reagent fluid to be transferred within the reagent fluid delivery system (414).

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, the device is equipped with a motor pump (415) to deliver the reagent fluid from the reagent container (204) to the inlet of a subsequent manifold (416) within the reagent fluid delivery system (414). A manifold (416) is provided to guide the reagent fluid received from the reagent container (204) through a combination of multiple detachable manifolds (416) within the reagent fluid delivery system (414), preventing the reagent fluid from flowing backward or in the reverse direction. A final reagent fluid delivery manifold (417) is provided to distribute the reagent fluid separately and simultaneously at precise points on the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide while keeping the microscope slide and all components of the reagent fluid delivery system (414) stationary and fixed. The manifolds (416, 417) of the device (101) are detachable, and the number of manifolds (416, 417) and their corresponding inlets and outlets can vary according to the requirements of the process cycle.

[0032] In one embodiment of the invention, the device is provided with a controller (108) connected to multiple sensors of various types for detecting necessary parameters, including but not limited to temperature, pressure, fluid flow rate, running time, reagent fluid volume in the reagent fluid delivery system (414) at each manifold (416) stage, reagent fluid type and chemical and physical properties in the reagent container (204), discharge flow rate, manifold (416, 417) type detection, motor pump (415), fluid distribution rate, number of microscope slides placed in the staining area (209) and number of slide trays (310) placed in the system (101, 201), and the position of the slide trays (210) on the slide tray platform (211).

[0033] In one embodiment of the invention, the controller (108) stores a plurality of preset parameter configurations for user selection and additionally enables the user to set the parameters according to their preferences to allow for optimal results under conditions where the type of reagent fluid, the quantity of reagent fluid, qualitative and quantitative variations of the reagent fluid, the type of sample on the microscope slide, the number of microscope slides, the number of slide trays (210) and their positions within the device (101, 201), and the technical procedures for a particular process that the user wishes to perform using the device (101, 201) vary.

[0034] In one embodiment of the invention, the controller (108) performs an operation check in which the controller (108) turns on all electronic components of the system (101) for a period of time to check whether they operate smoothly according to the parameters set by the user for a specific process cycle.

[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, the controller (108) enables the device (101, 201) to pause and resume its operation in the event of any unexpected interruption, such as when a user opens the door (103), or when power is cut off, and provides an automatic switching mechanism in which the device (101, 201) switches its operation from direct power supply to a backup power source such as a battery, making the device (101, 201) portable.

[0036] In one embodiment of the invention, the time required to process multiple microscope slides carrying samples remains constant, regardless of the number of microscope slides, thereby achieving high throughput under all conditions.

[0037] In one embodiment of the method of the present invention, multiple microscope slides carrying multiple samples can be processed separately and simultaneously using a variety of reagent fluids under user-controlled process cycle parameters.

[0038] In one embodiment of the method of the present invention, user-controllable parameters include, but are not limited to, the type of reagent fluid, the quantity of reagent fluid, the order in which the reagent fluid is dispensed, the flow rate of the reagent fluid in the reagent fluid delivery system (414), the duration of dispensing the reagent fluid, the waiting time between dispensing two consecutive reagent fluids, the number of microscope slides to be processed, the number of reagent containers (104) selected for a particular cycle, the running time of a particular set of motor pumps (415), the amount of reagent fluid to be dispensed onto the microscope slides carrying the sample, the selection of a particular configuration of the slide tray (210) and the position of the microscope slides carrying the sample within the staining area (209), the type of manifolds (416, 417) for a particular process and the order of the manifolds (416), the configuration of multiple manifold (416) combinations, the drainage flow rate, etc.

[0039] In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, an automatic cleaning cycle cleans the reagent fluid delivery system (414) from any residue of the reagent fluid used in the previous process. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of an automated apparatus for controlled processing of multiple microscope slides using various reagent fluids, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an automated apparatus for controlled processing of multiple microscope slides using various reagent fluids, according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the stained area (209).

[0042] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of a slide tray (310) having a flat horizontal groove for placing microscope slides according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 3B This is an isometric view of a slide tray (310) having an inclined horizontal groove for placing microscope slides according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a reagent fluid delivery system (414) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the final reagent fluid delivery manifold (417) and slide tray (510) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The present invention is illustrated by the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote corresponding parts in each drawing.

[0047] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of an automated apparatus for controlled processing of multiple microscope slides using various reagent fluids, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the apparatus (101) includes a housing (102) that houses the various components of the apparatus (101) to provide specific space for performing the process without external interference. In some specific embodiments, the housing (102) includes a heat insulation layer to eliminate heat transfer between the housing (102) and the external environment, thereby maintaining a controlled internal environment of the apparatus (101) for optimized efficiency. The housing (102) includes a door (103) for access to the slide tray platform (211). The housing (102) includes a vent with a filter (107) for clean airflow, thereby maintaining good ventilation for the components of the apparatus (101). The apparatus (101) may include a controller (108) connected to the housing (102) for user operation.

[0048] A reagent container (104) containing various types of reagent fluids required for the multiple process cycles is positioned outside the staining area (209), allowing it to be disassembled, refilled, or even replaced by the user as needed. Furthermore, smart sensors and indicators are connected to the reagent container (104) to obtain information about the volume of reagent fluid present in the container (104), the type and properties of the reagent fluid, and transmit this information to the controller (108) so that the user can take subsequent actions. For example, if the sensor detects that the type of reagent fluid required for the selected process cycle is absent, or that its quantity is insufficient to complete the process cycle, it sends this information to the controller (108), which then instructs the user to take appropriate action via its display or any other form of user interface, such as refilling the reagent fluid or connecting the reagent container (104) containing the required reagent fluid, depending on the requirements of the selected process cycle. This feature enables the system (101) and the user to perform multiple process cycles using a variety of reagent fluids, thereby improving the efficiency, flexibility, controllability and throughput of the device (101) and saving time and resources.

[0049] The reagent container (104) contains pure, clean, and contaminant-free reagent fluid, which is protected from any external contamination by keeping the reagent container (104) closed and within the controlled environment of the device (101). If any reagent fluid used for experimental purposes contains solid particles, these particles may further impede the flow rate of the reagent fluid at different stages of the reagent fluid delivery system (414) and may fail to provide reliable results. Therefore, in order to ensure that the device (101) provides reliable, accurate, and consistent results using various types of reagent fluids, the reagent container (104) may also be equipped with a filter to prevent any contaminants or solid particles from entering the reagent fluid delivery system (414). Thus, no blockage event of the reagent fluid delivery system (414) will occur at any point in the flow.

[0050] The conduit (105) connected to the reagent container (104) facilitates the transfer of reagent fluid from the reagent container (104) to a subsequent destination within the reagent fluid delivery system (414).

[0051] The device (101) is equipped with a drainage system that transfers all used reagent fluids to the drainage outlet (106), which can then further transfer the discharged fluids to a drainage reservoir or connect to a laboratory waste system.

[0052] The controller (108) provides a user interface and may include any number of microprocessors or microcontrollers, printed circuit boards, any form of user interface, and multiple sensors of various types for detecting necessary parameters, including but not limited to temperature, pressure, fluid flow rate, running time, volume of reagent fluid in reagent container (104), type and chemical and physical properties of reagent fluid in reagent container (104), discharge flow rate, manifold (416, 417) type detection, motor pump (415), fluid dispensing rate, number of microscope slides placed in the staining area (209) and number of slide trays (210) placed in the system (201), and the position of the slide trays (210) on the slide tray platform (211). The controller (108) may include, but is not limited to, specific forms of volatile and non-volatile memory that store multiple preset configurations of parameters for user selection, and additionally enable the user to set parameters according to their preferences to allow for optimal results under conditions of changes in reagent fluid type, reagent fluid quantity, qualitative and quantitative variations of reagent fluid, sample on the microscope slide, number of microscope slides, number of slide trays (210) and their positions within the device (101), and the technical procedures for a specific process that the user wishes to perform using the device (101).

[0053] The controller (108) is connected to the various components of the device (101) to provide the user with control over the components. User-defined parameters include, but are not limited to, the number of reagent containers (104) selected for a particular cycle, the flow rate of the reagent fluid, the running time of a particular set of motor pumps (415), the amount of reagent fluid to be dispensed onto the microscope slide carrying the sample, the order in which the reagent fluid is dispensed, the selection of a particular slide tray (310) and the position of the microscope slide within the staining area (209), the type of manifold (416, 417) used for a particular process and the order of the manifold (416), the drainage flow rate, etc.

[0054] The controller (108) may include a power supply, making the device (101) portable. The controller (108) enables the system to pause and resume operation in the event of any unexpected interruption, such as a user opening the door or a power outage. The controller also provides an automatic switching mechanism, wherein the system (101) switches its operation from direct power supply to a backup power source such as a battery.

[0055] Figure 2This is a perspective view of an automated apparatus for controlled processing of multiple microscope slides using various reagent fluids, according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a staining region (209). The staining region (209) may have various arrangement patterns to specifically configure the slide tray platform (211), the slide tray (210) holding the microscope slides carrying the samples, the support structure (212), and the collection tray (213), thereby enabling the system (201) to operate at an optimal level.

[0056] The slide tray (210) can have any shape, size, configuration, and material composition, and can hold any number of microscope slides in a specific arrangement, such as 1 slide, 5 slides, 10 slides, etc., including but not limited to central, linear, radial, square grid, rectangular grid, grid, etc. The slide tray (210) is provided with a gripping space, which allows the slide tray (210) to be operated and accessed without touching any surface of the microscope slide carrying the sample, thereby eliminating any wear, contamination, or sample movement.

[0057] A removable slide tray platform (211) is provided for accommodating multiple equally removable slide trays (210). The slide tray platform (211) may include gripping spaces for accessing the slide tray platform (211) without contacting any surface of the microscope slides carrying the samples, thereby eliminating any abrasion, contamination, or sample movement. In some embodiments, the slide tray platform (211) may include multiple rows and / or columns to accommodate multiple slide trays (210) carrying multiple microscope slides carrying the samples. The slide tray platform (211) may have any shape, size, configuration, and material composition, and may accommodate any number of slide trays (210) in a specific arrangement, such as 1 slide tray (210), 5 slide trays (210), 10 slide trays (210), etc., including but not limited to central, linear, radial, square grid, rectangular grid, and grid arrangements.

[0058] The slide tray platform (211) is fixed in a static position within the staining area (209) by means of various support structures (212), including but not limited to support brackets, grooves, inserts, etc. Furthermore, the support structures (212) allow the slide tray platform (211) to be positioned from a horizontal position to any angle according to process and user requirements. The slide tray platform (211) also has spaced openings for allowing used reagent fluid discharged from the slide tray (210) to drain. The slide tray platform (211) may also include a mechanism for collecting and transferring used reagent fluid to the drain outlet (206).

[0059] The collection tray (213) is positioned below the slide tray platform (211) to collect all used reagent fluid that flows through the microscope slide carrying the sample and through the drain openings in the slide tray (210) and the slide tray platform (211). The collection tray (213) may have any shape, size, and configuration depending on the arrangement and configuration of the slide tray platform (211) and the slide tray (210). The collection tray (213) is provided with walls to prevent used reagent fluid from flowing outside the collection tray (213) and to guide the flow toward the drain outlet (206). The support structure (212) is provided to secure the collection tray (213) at a specific angle and position within the staining area (209).

[0060] Furthermore, the staining area (209) has multiple arrangement patterns to specifically accommodate any number of slide tray platforms (211), slide trays (210) that hold microscope slides carrying samples, the support structure (212), and the collection tray (213), thereby enabling the system (201) to operate at an optimal level according to specific operating procedures and user requirements.

[0061] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of a slide tray (310) having a flat horizontal groove for placing microscope slides according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 3B This is an isometric view of a slide tray (310) with a tilted horizontal groove for placing microscope slides according to an embodiment of the present invention. The tilted groove for placing microscope slides allows the user to place the microscope slides in an tilted position even before placing them into the system (201) when needed.

[0063] like Figure 3A The slide tray (310) shown can be placed on the slide tray platform (211) so as... Figure 2 The microscope slide is tilted as shown. The support structure (212) also allows the slide tray platform (211) and therefore the microscope slide to be placed horizontally.

[0064] The slide tray (310) has an opening on one side for inserting and removing microscope slides. The slide tray (310) also includes a narrow opening on the opposite side of the first opening, positioned below the height of the first opening to allow reagent fluid flowing over the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide to drain. The microscope slide is placed within a recess in the slide tray (310) with the sample-bearing side facing upwards, thereby receiving the reagent fluid on that surface for further processing.

[0065] By employing various configurations of the slide tray (310) and the slide tray platform (211), and tilting the microscope slide within the staining area (209), the fluid can be evenly distributed on the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide, ensuring the reagent fluid remains in contact with the sample on the microscope slide surface for the required duration. This also allows the used reagent fluid to be completely drained from a narrow opening on the lower side of the slide tray (310). Thus, traces of previous reagent fluid are completely removed from the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide. This is extremely important for properly treating the microscope slide with various reagent fluids according to scientific procedures to obtain accurate results.

[0066] Furthermore, the microscope slide remains in a fixed position and therefore stationary throughout the process. This arrangement of separating and stationary placement of the microscope slide within the device (201) eliminates the risk of cross-contamination between the microscope slide and the sample, and unnecessary contact between reagent fluids and other surfaces of the microscope slide. Since all components of the device (201) remain stationary during the process, and the device (201) does not employ any large, complex components and / or systems for moving parts within the staining area (209), it saves on the costs and time required for repair and maintenance.

[0067] The support structure (212) for the slide tray platform (211) allows the microscope slides to be placed horizontally or tilted, as shown, depending on the configuration of the slide tray (310) used. When using... Figure 3A When using the slide tray (310) shown, the user may wish to tilt the slide tray platform (211), and when using such... Figure 3BWhen using the slide tray (310) shown, the user may wish to place the slide tray platform (211) horizontally.

[0068] The slide tray (310) is detachable and removable, allowing microscope slides to be easily, carefully, and flexibly placed into and removed from the slide tray (310). Furthermore, after processing a batch of microscope slides, the user only needs to replace the slide tray (310) and continue processing another batch of microscope slides using other slide trays (310). This saves time and increases operating speed.

[0069] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a reagent fluid delivery system (414) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The reagent fluid delivery system (414) comprises a reagent container (404), a conduit (105), multiple motor pumps (415) of various types, and multiple manifolds (416) with different numbers of inlets and outlets used at various stages of the reagent fluid delivery system (414). The reagent container (404) is connected to multiple motor pumps (415) and valves, which deliver fluid from the reagent container (404) to the inlet of a subsequent manifold (404) via the conduit (105). The various types of motor pumps (415) that can be used include, but are not limited to, centrifugal pumps, vertical centrifugal pumps, horizontal centrifugal pumps, submersible pumps, fire hydrant pumps, diaphragm pumps, gear pumps, peristaltic pumps, cam pumps, piston pumps, etc. Furthermore, the motor pumps (415) can have any size, shape, and configuration.

[0070] Then, each manifold (416) delivers the fluid to the next manifold (416) in the reagent fluid delivery system (414) according to its number of outlets and the position of the subsequent manifold (416). Therefore, the reagent fluid delivery system (414) may consist of multiple manifolds (416, 417). The number of manifolds (416, 417) and their corresponding number of inlets and outlets may vary according to the requirements of the process cycle. The manifolds (416, 417) may have different shapes, sizes, and configurations without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, each manifold (416, 417) can be disassembled and replaced by the end user, thereby increasing the functionality of the system (201). Each manifold (416, 417) is designed to prevent backward or reverse flow of the reagent fluid through it.

[0071] For example, if a user wishes to perform a process involving the sequential dispensing of three reagent fluids onto the sample-bearing surfaces of five microscope slides, the user can select and directly connect a manifold (416) with three inlets and five outlets to the system (414), and the controller (108) communicates information to the system (401) regarding the timing, sequence, and amount of reagent fluids to be dispensed in the process cycle. The controller (108) then sends instructions to the sensors, motor pump (415), etc., and executes the process as requested by the user. Alternatively, the user can select a first manifold (416) with three inlets and one outlet, and a second manifold (416) with one inlet and five outlets, and obtain the same results as when using the manifolds (416, 417) with three inlets and five outlets.

[0072] It should be noted that the manifold (416) receives the reagent fluid from the reagent container (404) and then transmits the reagent fluid within the reagent fluid delivery system (414) through a combination of multiple manifolds (416) having various inlet and outlet combinations. This allows multiple microscope slides carrying samples to be separated and stained simultaneously, thereby eliminating any cross-contamination of the microscope slides, sample transfer from one microscope slide to another due to dispersion in the reagent fluid, dilution of the reagent fluid, and contamination and cross-contamination of the reagent fluid due to the design of the closed device and the components of the reagent fluid delivery system (414). The reagent fluid delivery system (414), being a static system, also eliminates the disadvantages of large and complex systems that could lead to component collisions and increased repair and maintenance costs. The simple, detachable, and fewer components save user time and significantly reduce the energy consumption of operating the device (101).

[0073] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a final reagent fluid delivery manifold (517) and a slide tray (510) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The manifold (517) that receives the reagent fluid from the reagent fluid delivery system (414) and dispenses it onto the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide is referred to as the "final reagent fluid delivery manifold (517)". The reagent fluid arrives at the final reagent fluid delivery manifold (517) after passing through a combination of manifolds, and while keeping the microscope slide and all components of the reagent fluid delivery system (414) stationary and fixed, it dispenses the reagent fluid separately and simultaneously at precise points on each microscope slide surface onto the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide.

[0074] The final reagent fluid delivery manifold (517) is designed to dispense small and precise amounts of reagent fluid onto each microscope slide surface. Furthermore, the flow rate and flow time set by the user will help dispense only the required amount of reagent fluid and eliminate any waste or overuse of reagent fluid.

[0075] Reducing waste of reagent fluid lowers costs and resource consumption because the demand for the reagent fluid is reduced, and by applying this invention, high throughput can be achieved with small volumes of reagent fluid.

[0076] The device (101) is designed such that the reagent fluid flows through a closed and clean reagent fluid delivery system (414) from a closed reagent container (404), after filtration, to individual manifolds (416, 417) designed to prevent any backflow or reverse flow of the reagent fluid, then contacts the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide, and is further transferred to the drain outlet (106) after use. When clean and uncontaminated reagent fluid comes into contact with the sample, excellent processing results can be provided according to scientific standard procedures.

[0077] In this embodiment, the user can place the microscope slide carrying the sample into the groove provided in the slide tray (310), with the sample-carrying surface of the microscope slide facing upwards. See now. Figure 2 Subsequently, the slide tray (210) is placed on the slide tray platform (211), which can be accessed after opening the door (203) of the housing (202). The user can place the slide tray (210) containing the microscope slides onto the slide tray platform (211) from outside the device (201), and then place the slide tray platform (211) with the slide tray (210) into the staining area (209). The slide tray platform (211) can be positioned at the desired angle and location using the support structure (212). After successfully placing the slide tray platform (211), the user can close the door (203) and select the parameter configuration required for the process that the user wants the device (201) to perform through the user interface of the controller (208), such as the amount of reagent fluid, the order of dispensing the reagent fluid, the duration of dispensing the reagent fluid, the waiting time between dispensing two consecutive reagent fluids, the number of microscope slides to be processed, etc.

[0078] After the user sets the parameters, the controller (208) checks whether all conditions required for successful execution of the process cycle have been met. The controller (208) may instruct the user on any necessary actions to be taken, such as refilling the reagent fluid in the reagent container (204), connecting or disconnecting any component of the reagent fluid delivery system (414), placing any component in the staining area (209), etc. After all necessary conditions for successful execution of the set process cycle have been met, the device (201) will successfully complete the process through the coordination of the controller (208) with the sensor, the motor pump (415), and the reagent fluid delivery system (414), thereby eliminating any future interruptions to the process cycle. The motor pump (415) will begin to circulate the reagent fluid from the reagent container (204) through the reagent fluid delivery system (414) configured by the user for the set process cycle at the set flow rate and within the set time.

[0079] When the final reagent fluid delivery manifold (417) receives the reagent fluid, it then dispenses the reagent fluid at precise points on the microscope slide onto the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide. After the reagent fluid uniformly covers the sample-bearing surface, it is discharged through a narrow opening at the bottom of a recess in the slide tray (310). The used reagent fluid is then discharged through spaced openings in the slide tray platform (211) to the collection tray (213) located below it and positioned at the desired angle by means of the support structure (212). The collection tray (213) guides the used reagent fluid toward the drain outlet (206), which then discharges the used reagent into the drain reservoir. This reagent fluid circulation process is repeated until all selected reagent fluids have been dispensed in a set order and at set times. At the end of the process, the user is notified of its completion via an alarm and / or display on the controller (208). Therefore, the device (201) can process multiple microscope slides carrying samples separately and simultaneously, under parameters similar to those of the process cycle, for the same duration required for a single microscope slide.

[0080] In one embodiment of the invention, the user may first configure the parameters of the device (201) and the process cycle, allowing the controller (208) to perform an operational check on all components such as the motor pump (415), and then, upon receiving an instruction from the controller (208), place the slide tray platform (211) of the microscope slide tray (210) carrying the sample into the staining area (209). During the operational check, the controller (208) "turns on" all electronic components of the system (201) for a period of time to check whether they operate smoothly according to the parameters set by the user.

[0081] In one embodiment of the invention, after the desired process is completed, the user can run an automated device cleaning cycle to remove any residue of reagent fluid used in the previous process from the reagent fluid delivery system (414). During the cleaning cycle, the controller (208) can remind the user to remove the slide tray platform (211), the slide tray (210), and the microscope slide from the staining area (209). It should be noted that the collection tray (213), the slide tray platform (211), the slide tray (210), and the manifolds (416, 417) are all removable, allowing for external cleaning of the device (201), which saves time and reduces repair and maintenance costs.

[0082] In some embodiments of the invention, the user's control over process parameters, the variety of reagent fluids that can be used, and the microscope slides that can handle multiple samples separately and simultaneously make the invention applicable to a variety of experiments and studies, the purpose of which is to study the effects of reagent fluids with specific chemical and physical properties on specific types of samples, and further to the development of specific types of reagent fluids with specific chemical and physical properties and new procedures for processing various types of samples to obtain better and faster results.

[0083] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that automated apparatus and methods for treating microscope slides carrying samples with reagent fluids can be implemented using some or all of the features and components without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above embodiments are specific examples of a single, broader invention, the scope of which may exceed any single description disclosed. Many changes may be made to the description without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus for controlled processing of multiple microscope slides using various reagent fluids, comprising: A housing (202) that houses the components of the device; A door (203) connected to the housing (202) provides access to the stained area (209); At least one staining area (209) provides a specific space within the housing (202) for processing the plurality of microscope slides with the various reagent fluids; At least one slide tray (210) having multiple arrangement patterns to separate in a static position within the stained area (209) while simultaneously holding the plurality of microscope slides; At least one slide tray platform (211) has multiple arrangement patterns, which enable it to separate in a static position within the stained area (209) and simultaneously hold multiple slide trays (210); At least one support structure (212) is capable of fixing multiple slide tray platforms (211) carrying the slide trays (210) with microscope slides in a static position within the staining area (209); At least one collection tray (213) is positioned in a static position within the staining area (209) below the slide tray platform (211) to collect all used reagent fluid that flows across the surface of the microscope slide carrying the sample and through the discharge openings in the slide tray (210) and the slide tray platform (211); At least one reagent container (204) is provided outside the staining area (209) to contain various types of reagent fluids required for multiple operating cycles. At least one conduit (205) is connected to the reagent container (204) to enable the reagent fluid to be transferred from the reagent container (204) to a subsequent destination, such as a motor pump (415) or manifold (416) within the reagent fluid delivery system (414); At least one electric pump (415) is provided for conveying the reagent fluid from the reagent container (204) to the inlet of a subsequent manifold (416) within the reagent fluid delivery system (414); At least one manifold (416) is used to guide the reagent fluid received from the reagent container (204) through a combination of multiple manifolds (416) within the reagent fluid delivery system (414) such that the reagent fluid does not flow backward or in the reverse direction. At least one final reagent fluid delivery manifold (417) disposed within the reagent fluid delivery system (414) is used to separate and simultaneously distribute the reagent fluid at precise points on the surface of each microscope slide onto the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide while keeping the microscope slide and all components of the reagent fluid delivery system (414) stationary and fixed. At least one drain outlet (206) provided on the housing (202) is used to transfer the used reagent fluid to the drain reservoir; At least one vent with a filter (207) is provided on the housing (202) for allowing clean filtered air to flow, thereby keeping the components of the device (201) well ventilated; At least one controller (208) is connected to the housing (202), which enables the user to control various parameters of the process and serves as a communication interface between the user and the device (201).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The housing (202) is thermally insulated from the external environment to eliminate heat transfer between the device (201) and the surrounding environment, thereby providing a controlled environment for the device (201) to operate with optimal efficiency without external influence.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The staining area (209) has multiple arrangement patterns to simultaneously accommodate a slide tray platform (211), a slide tray (210) holding a microscope slide carrying a sample, the support structure (212), and the collection tray (213) in a specific configuration, so that the device (201) operates at an optimal level.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray (310) is separated in a flat horizontal groove and simultaneously holds multiple microscope slides carrying samples.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray (310) is separated in an inclined horizontal groove and simultaneously holds multiple microscope slides carrying samples, thereby tilting it throughout the operation.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray (310) has an opening on one side for inserting and removing microscope slides.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray (310) includes a narrow opening on the side opposite to the first opening, and the opening is positioned at a height lower than the first opening to allow reagent fluid flowing through the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide to drain.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray (310) is provided with a gripping space, which allows the slide tray (310) to be operated and accessed without touching any surface of the microscope slide carrying the sample, and the slide tray (310) is removable.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray platform (211) is provided with a gripping space, which allows the slide tray platform (211) to be operated and accessed without contacting any surface of the microscope slide carrying the sample, and the slide tray platform (211) is detachable.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray platform (211) has spaced openings for allowing used reagent fluid discharged from the slide tray (210) to flow out.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The slide tray platform (211) includes a mechanism for collecting and transferring used reagent fluids to the drain outlet (206).

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The support structure (212) for the slide tray platform (211) enables the slide tray platform (211) to be positioned from a horizontal position to any tilt angle according to process and user requirements and the configuration of the slide tray (210) used, thereby keeping it stationary throughout the operation.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The collection tray (213) includes walls to prevent used reagent fluid from flowing outside the collection tray (213) and to guide the flow toward the drain outlet (206).

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The collection tray (213) is fixed at a specific angle and position within the dyeing area (209) by means of the support structure (212).

15. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The reagent container (204) is detachable, refillable, and replaceable by the user when needed, thus providing operational efficiency and flexibility.

16. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The reagent container (204) is connected to a smart sensor and indicator, which acquires information about the volume of the reagent fluid present in the reagent container (204), the type of reagent fluid in the reagent container (204), and its chemical and physical properties, and transmits this information to the controller (208) so that the user can take further action.

17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The reagent container (404) is equipped with a filter to prevent any contaminants or solid particles from entering the reagent fluid delivery system (414).

18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The manifolds (416, 417) are detachable, and the number of manifolds (416, 417) used in a combination of multiple manifolds (416, 417) and their corresponding inlet and outlet numbers can vary according to the requirements of the process cycle.

19. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The controller (208) is connected to multiple sensors of various types for detecting necessary parameters, including but not limited to temperature, pressure, fluid flow rate, running time, reagent fluid volume in the reagent fluid delivery system (414) at each manifold (416, 417) stage, reagent fluid type and chemical and physical properties in the reagent container (204), discharge flow rate, manifold (416, 417) type detection, motor pump (415), fluid dispensing rate, number of microscope slides placed in the staining area (209) and number of slide trays (210) placed in the system (201), and the position of the slide trays (210) on the slide tray platform (211).

20. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The controller (208) stores multiple preset parameter configurations for user selection and additionally enables the user to set the parameters according to their preferences to allow for optimal results under conditions of changes in reagent fluid type, reagent fluid quantity, qualitative and quantitative variations of reagent fluid, type of sample on the microscope slide, number of microscope slides, number of slide trays (210) and their positions within the device (201), and the technical procedures for a particular process that the user wishes to perform using the device (201).

21. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The controller (208) performs an operation check in which it "turns on" all electronic components of the system (201) for a period of time to check whether they operate smoothly according to the parameters set by the user for a specific process cycle.

22. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The controller (208) enables the device (201) to pause and resume its operation in the event of any unexpected interruption, such as when a user opens the door or the power is cut off, and provides an automatic switching mechanism in which the device (201) switches its operation from direct power supply to a backup power source such as a battery, making the device (201) portable.

23. A method for controlled processing of multiple microscope slides using various reagent fluids, comprising: The microscope slide carrying the sample is placed in the groove provided in the slide tray (210), with the sample-carrying surface of the microscope slide facing upwards. When outside the device (201), the slide tray (210) carrying the microscope slide is placed on the slide tray platform (211); The slide tray platform (211) with the microscope slide tray (210) carrying the sample is placed at the desired angle and position by means of the support structure (212) within the staining area (209) accessible through the door (203) on the housing (202); Through the user interface of the controller (208), the user selects the desired parameter configuration for the process that the device (201) wants to perform, such as the type of reagent fluid, the quantity of reagent fluid, the order of dispensing the reagent fluid, the flow rate of the reagent fluid in the reagent fluid delivery system (414), the duration of dispensing the reagent fluid, the waiting time between dispensing two consecutive reagent fluids, the number of microscope slides to be processed, etc. Wait for the controller (208) to check whether all the conditions required for successful execution of the process loop have been met, and to indicate to the user any subsequent actions to be taken; After all the necessary conditions for the successful execution of the set process cycle are met, the device (201) will start the process through the coordination of the controller (208) with the sensor, motor pump (415), and reagent fluid delivery system (414); The electric pump (415) will begin to circulate the filtered reagent fluid from the reagent container (404) through the reagent fluid delivery system (414); Upon receiving the reagent fluid, the final reagent fluid delivery manifold (517) then dispenses the reagent fluid at precise points on the microscope slide onto the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide; The used reagent fluid from the surface of the microscope slide is then drained through a narrow opening at the bottom of the groove in the slide tray (210); The used reagent fluid will then be discharged via a spaced opening in the slide tray platform (211) to the collection tray (213) located below the slide tray platform (211); The collection tray (213) will guide the used reagent fluid toward the drain outlet (206), and then the drain outlet will discharge the used reagent into the drain reservoir or laboratory waste system; At the end of the process cycle, the user is notified of the completion of the process cycle via an alarm and / or display on the controller (208).

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The physical and chemical properties of the reagent fluid, the quantity of the reagent fluid, the amount of reagent fluid dispensed onto the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide, and the order in which the reagent fluid is dispensed onto the sample-bearing surface of the microscope slide will depend on the physical and chemical properties of the sample on the microscope slide and the parameters of the process cycle.

25. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The final reagent fluid delivery manifold (517) separates and simultaneously distributes the reagent fluid onto the sample-bearing surfaces of multiple microscope slides, thereby ensuring that the reagent fluid uniformly covers the sample-bearing surfaces of the microscope slides.

26. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The processing time required for a microscope slide carrying multiple samples is the same as the processing time required for a microscope slide carrying a single sample, thus enabling high throughput under all conditions.

27. The method according to claim 23, wherein, It can process multiple microscope slides carrying multiple samples simultaneously and separately using various reagent fluids under user-controlled process cycle parameters.

28. The method according to claim 23, wherein, User-controllable parameters include, but are not limited to, the type of reagent fluid, the quantity of reagent fluid, the order in which the reagent fluid is dispensed, the flow rate of the reagent fluid in the reagent fluid delivery system (414), the duration of dispensing the reagent fluid, the waiting time between dispensing two consecutive reagent fluids, the number of microscope slides to be processed, the number of reagent containers (404) selected for a specific cycle, the running time of a specific set of motor pumps (415), the amount of reagent fluid to be dispensed onto the microscope slides carrying the sample, the selection of a specific configuration of the slide tray (310) and the position of the microscope slides carrying the sample within the staining area (209), the type of manifolds (416, 417) for a specific process and the order of the manifolds (416, 417), the configuration of combinations of multiple manifolds (416, 417), and the drainage flow rate, etc.

29. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The automatic cleaning cycle removes any residue of reagent fluid used in previous process cycles from the reagent fluid delivery system (414).

30. The method according to claim 23, wherein, It enables the study of the effects of various reagent fluids with specific chemical and physical properties on multiple samples of specific types, in order to further develop specific types of reagent fluids with specific chemical and physical properties, as well as new procedures for using various types of reagent fluids to treat various types of samples to obtain better and faster results.

Images