Assembly device for a slice scanner

Abstract

The application provides an assembling device which is suitable for a pathological section scanner of a section box containing basket, and comprises a rack, a placing cabin and a loading box. The loading box comprises two first side plates, a connecting plate and a first bottom plate. The placing cabin comprises two second side plates, a top plate and a second bottom plate. First magnetic attraction structures are arranged on the two first side plates and the top plate respectively. Second magnetic attraction structures are arranged on the first bottom plate and the second bottom plate respectively. The loading box and the placing cabin are fixed by the first magnetic attraction structures and the second magnetic attraction structures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an assembly apparatus, and more particularly to an assembly apparatus for a slice scanner. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of digital pathology, pathology slide scanners are commonly used. These devices digitize pathology slides to facilitate remote consultations or scientific research. To improve efficiency, these devices typically use storage units capable of holding dozens or even hundreds of slides for batch processing. However, loading the slides one by one is inefficient and labor-intensive. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a slide holder that can hold multiple slides, but the loading process is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Chinese Publication No. CN218189750U Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] To solve the problem of time-consuming and laborious slide loading in pathology slide scanners, the inventors came up with a solution that directly integrates the slide tray storage basket from the staining machine into the pathology slide scanner. However, how to accurately assemble the slide tray storage basket into the pathology slide scanner to ensure the normal operation of the equipment is a problem to be solved.

[0008] In pathological slide scanners, the slide needs to be moved to a predetermined position and distance below the camera for scanning. The predetermined position and distance are precisely calculated based on mathematical relationships. If the position of the slide deviates from the predetermined position, it will not move properly. Therefore, the accuracy of the slide's position is crucial.

[0009] Applying slide tray storage baskets directly to pathology slide scanners requires precise assembly to ensure accurate slide positioning. However, the complex internal structure of pathology slide scanners and the inherent design and manufacturing tolerances of the slide tray storage baskets themselves undoubtedly increase the difficulty of assembly.

[0010] Technical means for solving problems

[0011] This invention addresses the aforementioned problems and aims to provide an assembly device that can precisely assemble a slide box storage basket into a pathological slide scanner, thereby ensuring the accuracy of slide positioning and enabling precise slide delivery in conjunction with a moving device.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention provides an assembly apparatus adapted for a pathology slide scanner with a slide cassette storage basket for accommodating multiple slides, comprising: a frame; a placement chamber fixed to the frame in a manner movable in a first direction; and a loading box detachably disposed within the placement chamber and carrying the slide cassette storage basket. The loading box includes: two first side plates extending along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction, respectively, the two first side plates facing each other in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions; a connecting plate disposed on one side of the two first side plates in the first direction, connecting the two first side plates in a third direction, and forming an opening together with the two first side plates for inserting the slide cassette storage basket; and a first bottom plate connected to the two first side plates on the other side of the first direction. The placement chamber includes: two second side plates extending along the first and second directions, the two second side plates facing each other in a third direction; a top plate connected to the two second side plates on one side of the first direction; and a second bottom plate connected to the two second side plates on the other side of the first direction. On the other side of the two first side plates and the top plate in the second direction, a first magnetic attraction structure is provided respectively. On the other side of the first bottom plate and the second bottom plate in the second direction, a second magnetic attraction structure is provided respectively. The loading box and the placement compartment are magnetically fixed by the first magnetic attraction structure and the second magnetic attraction structure.

[0013] The effects of the invention

[0014] According to the assembly device provided by the present invention, the slide box storage basket used in the staining machine can be directly applied to the pathological slide scanner, and the assembly accuracy of the slide box storage basket can be guaranteed, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the slide position. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the slice box storage basket used in a staining machine.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the installation effect of the slide assembly device for a pathology slide scanner.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the loading box.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the assembly of the loading box and the slice box storage basket.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the placement compartment.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the placement compartment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the loading box.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the second base plate.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the first base plate.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the limiting structure.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the assembly process of the limiting structure.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the second base plate in a modified example.

[0027] Symbol Explanation

[0028] 1… Loading box; 2… Placement compartment; 3… Slice box storage basket; 4… Frame; 5… Glass slide; 6… Limiting block; 111… First left side plate; 112… First right side plate; 113… First side; 114… Second side; 115… Third side; 12… Connecting plate; 13… First base plate; 131… First mounting plate; 14… First recess; 15… Second recess; 17… Slot; 18… Slide; 181… First sliding surface; 182… Second sliding surface; 19… Identification slot; 211… Second left side plate; 21… 2……Second right side plate; 22……Top plate; 221……Stop block; 221a……Screw; 23……Second bottom plate; 231……Baffle; 231a……Metal sheet; 232……Bottom surface; 233……Second mounting plate; 24……Magnet; 25……Guide rail; 251……First inclined surface; 252……Transition surface; 253……Second inclined surface; 26……Limiting structure; 261……Spring; 262……Rotating shaft; 263……Snap-on; 264……Rod; 27……Auxiliary inclined surface; 28……Communication slot; 1A……Loading box; 25A……Guide rail. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The assembly apparatus according to the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the description of the drawings, the same or equivalent parts are given the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0030] In the accompanying drawings, for ease of understanding, the height direction (vertical / horizontal) of the assembly device is designated as the first direction D1. The length direction (front / backward) of the assembly device is designated as the second direction D2. The width direction (left / right) of the assembly device is designated as the third direction D3. The first direction D1, the second direction D2, and the third direction D3 are approximately perpendicular to each other.

[0031] This invention provides a slide mounting device for a pathology slide scanner that is compatible with a slide holder storage basket. The slide holder storage basket 3 is a loading structure manufactured by Sakura Corporation for mounting slides 5. Figure 1 As shown, the slice box storage basket 3 includes multiple rows inside (in) Figure 1 The slots (20 rows in the middle) are used to insert slide 5, allowing slide 5 to pass through from... Figure 1 Insert it into the opening on the right side. The slice box storage basket 3 is located near the top and bottom edges. Figure 1 On the right side (near the opening), there are holes for inserting hooks (not shown). The hooks can be used to lift the slice box storage basket 3 into the staining machine for staining.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the slide assembly device for the pathology slide scanner comprises two parts: a loading box 1 and a placement chamber 2. The placement chamber 2 is fixed to the frame 4 of the pathology slide scanner and can move up and down along the first direction D1 on the frame 4 to push different slides. The placement chamber 2 is equipped with the loading box 1 for carrying the slide box storage basket 3. The loading box 1 is externally adapted to the placement chamber 2 and internally adapted to the slide box storage basket 3. The loading box 1 can be easily placed into or removed from the placement chamber 2.

[0033] like Figure 3 As shown, the loading box 1 includes a first left side plate 111, a first right side plate 112, a connecting plate 12, and a first bottom plate 13. The first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 extend along a first direction D1 and a second direction D2, respectively. The first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 face each other in a third direction D3. The first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 have a symmetrical structure. The connecting plate 12 connects the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 along the third direction D3, and together with the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112, forms an opening for inserting the slice box storage basket 3. In other words, the connecting plate 12 is used to connect the sides of the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 located in the same direction (denoted as the second side 114), wherein the connecting plate 12 is disposed at the top of the side of the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 (the second side 114) (i.e., one side in the first direction D1), and the rest is hollowed out. The side opposite to the connecting plate 12 (i.e., the side opposite to the second side 114, denoted as the third side 115) is an open design, allowing the glass slides 5 contained in the slide box storage basket 3 to extend out. The first base plate 13 is connected to the bottom of the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112. In other words, the first base plate 13 is connected to the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 on the other side of the first direction D1. The connection methods between the connecting plate 12 or the first base plate 13 and the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 include, but are not limited to, screwing, welding, etc.

[0034] like Figure 4 As shown, the loading box 1 is a cavity formed by the first left side plate 111, the first right side plate 112, and the first bottom plate 13, used to accommodate the slice box storage basket 3. See also... Figure 3 The first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 each have a pair of first sides 113 on the side facing the first direction D1, a pair of second sides 114 on the side facing the second direction D2, and a pair of third sides 115 on the other side facing the second direction D2. On the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112, one side of the connecting plate 12 is higher than the other side; that is, the height of the second side 114 is greater than the height of the third side 115, and the height of the first side 113 gradually transitions from the height of the second side 114 to the height of the third side 115. After the slide box storage basket 3 is placed in the loading box 1, its height is basically the same as or not much different from the height of the third side 115, and the connecting plate 12 is located above the slide box storage basket 3, so it will not interfere with the pushing of the slides 5 inside the slide box storage basket 3. The second side 114 is provided with a smooth first recess 14, which is recessed towards the other side facing the second direction D2. When loading the loading box 1 into or removing it from the placement compartment 2, the hand grips the second side 114 of the loading box 1. The design of the first recess 14 is more ergonomic, improving grip comfort. Similarly, the first side 113 is provided with a smooth second recess 15, which is recessed to the other side in the first direction D1. When loading or removing the slice box storage basket 3 from above the loading box 1, the second recess 15 provides operating space for the hand gripping action, while the smooth design improves comfort. In addition, the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 are provided with a slot 17 on the side where the third side 115 is located, for securing it to the placement compartment 2.

[0035] The specific structure of loading box 1 has been introduced above. The structure of placement compartment 2 and the cooperation structure between loading box 1 and placement compartment 2 will be introduced below.

[0036] like Figure 5As shown, the placement compartment 2 includes a second left side panel 211, a second right side panel 212, a top plate 22, and a second bottom plate 23. The second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212 extend along a first direction D1 and a second direction D2, respectively. The second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212 face each other in a third direction D3. The second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212 have a symmetrical structure. The top plate 22 connects the top of the second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212, and the second bottom plate 23 connects the bottom of the second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212. In other words, the top plate 22 connects the second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212 on one side of the first direction D1, and the second bottom plate 23 connects the second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212 on the other side of the first direction D1. The cavity formed by the second left side panel 211, the second right side panel 212, the top plate 22, and the second bottom plate 23 is used to accommodate the loading box 1. The front and rear sides of the second left side panel 211 and the second right side panel 212 are open-style, providing space for the loading box 1 to be placed and the glass slide 5 to be pushed.

[0037] like Figure 6 As shown, the top plate 22 has two blocks 221 on the rear side of the placement compartment 2 (i.e., the other side in the second direction D2), with the two blocks 221 respectively positioned near the second left side plate 211 and the second right side plate 212. The second bottom plate 23 has a baffle 231 on the rear side of the placement compartment 2. The baffle 231 rises from the bottom of the second bottom plate 23 towards one side in the first direction D1. Magnets 24 are provided on the blocks 221 and the baffle 231. Metal parts are provided on the loading box 1 at positions corresponding to the magnets 24. These metal parts include screws or metal sheets, etc. Specifically, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112 are provided with metal screws 221a on the rear side of the loading box 1, and the first bottom plate 13 is provided with a metal sheet 231a on the rear side of the loading box 1. The metal sheet 231a and the first bottom plate 13 can be fixed with screws. The magnet 24 provided on the stop 221 and the metal screws 221a form a first magnetic attraction structure. The magnet 24 provided on the stop 231 and the metal sheet 231a form a second magnetic attraction structure. After the loading box 1 is inserted into the placement compartment 2, the metal screws 221a and the metal sheet 231a on the rear side of the loading box 1 can be fixed with the magnets 24 on the rear side of the placement compartment 2 through magnetic attraction, ensuring positional stability. In other words, the loading box 1 and the placement compartment 2 can be magnetically fixed by the first magnetic attraction structure and the second magnetic attraction structure.

[0038] like Figure 8 As shown, a second mounting plate 233 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the second base plate 23, which is used to connect the second left side plate 211 and the second right side plate 212. The second mounting plate 233 can be connected to the second left side plate 211 or the second right side plate 212 by screws.

[0039] The spacing on one side of the second direction D2 between the two second mounting plates 233 is larger than the spacing on the other side of the second direction D2, meaning the opening on the front side of the two second mounting plates 233 is larger, facilitating the insertion of the loading box 1 into the placement compartment 2. Furthermore, a guide rail 25 is provided on the bottom surface 232 of the second base plate 23. The guide rail 25 extends along the second direction D2. The guide rail 25 serves as a guide and slide rail for the installation of the loading box 1. The guide rail 25 protrudes from the bottom surface 232 towards the first direction D1 and includes a first inclined surface 251, a transition surface 252, and a second inclined surface 253.

[0040] like Figure 9 As shown, a first mounting plate 131 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the first base plate 13, for connecting the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112. The first mounting plate 131 can be connected to the first left side plate 111 or the first right side plate 112 by screws. A slide rail 18 is provided on the portion of the first base plate 13 corresponding to the guide rail 25. The slide rail 18 extends along the second direction D2. The slide rail 18 includes a first sliding surface 181 and a second sliding surface 182.

[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, after the loading box 1 and the slide box storage basket 3 are assembled, the slide 5 is exposed behind the loading box 1. Therefore, during movement, the slide 5 is at risk of falling off from behind the slide box storage basket 3. To ensure that the slide 5 does not fall off, the present invention designs the guide rail 25 as a sloped guide rail. Figure 8 As shown, the transition surface 252 is substantially parallel to the bottom surface 232. The two ends of the transition surface 252 are connected to the first inclined surface 251 and the second inclined surface 253, respectively, and the height of the transition surface 252 in the first direction D1 is higher than the height of the first inclined surface 251 and the first inclined surface 253 in the first direction D1. Viewed from the side, the cross-section of the guide rail 25 is generally trapezoidal. Both the first inclined surface 251 and the second inclined surface 253 slope from one end closer to the transition surface 252 to the other end. Figure 9 As shown, the slide rail 18, in conjunction with the guide rail 25, is recessed towards the first direction D1. The first sliding surface 181 connects with the second sliding surface 182, and the recess is greatest at the junction of the first sliding surface 181 and the second sliding surface 182. Viewed from the side, the cross-section of the slide rail 18 is triangular overall. Both the first sliding surface 181 and the second sliding surface 182 are inclined from one end closer to the other towards the other.

[0042] Thus, when the loading box 1 is placed into the placement chamber 2, it basically goes through three stages. In the first stage, the first sliding surface 181 of the loading box 1 slides on the first inclined surface 251; in the second stage, the first sliding surface 181 slides on the transition surface 252; and in the third stage, the first sliding surface 181 slides on the second inclined surface 253. In the first stage, the loading box 1 initially enters the placement chamber 2, requiring it to be angled at a certain angle so that the first sliding surface 181 is basically parallel to the first inclined surface 251 for smooth sliding. That is, the rear end of the loading box 1 needs to be raised to allow it to slide in smoothly, thus avoiding the risk of the slide 5 falling off from the rear end. In the second stage, the first sliding surface 181 is basically parallel to the transition surface 252. At this time, the rear end of the loading box 1 falls back slightly, with a lower angle compared to the first stage, but it is still in an elevated state. In the third stage, the first sliding surface 181 is basically parallel to the second inclined surface 253. At this time, the first sliding surface 181 falls back to a state basically the same as when it is laid flat, and the loading box 1 is successfully loaded. The second sliding surface 182 cooperates with the first sliding surface 181. When the second sliding surface 182 enters the placement chamber 2, the first sliding surface 181 is in the second or third stage. At this time, the second sliding surface 182 and the first inclined surface 251 are in basically the same direction of inclination, and can slide in smoothly. When the installation is completed, the second sliding surface 182 is basically parallel to the first inclined surface 251, and becomes the same as when it is laid flat.

[0043] The loading box 1 is removed from the placement chamber 2, and the process proceeds through three stages in roughly the reverse order of the three stages described above: first the third stage, then the second stage, and finally the first stage. Throughout the entire loading and unloading process, the glass slide 5 inside the loading box 1 remains safe and will not fall out.

[0044] Because the rear end of the loading box 1 needs to be raised in the first stage, the two first mounting plates 131 of the loading box 1 are also in a different state than when it is laid flat, that is, the two first mounting plates 131 will also be tilted at a certain angle. Therefore, in order to further improve the convenience of installation, auxiliary inclined surfaces 27 are also provided on both sides of the bottom surface 232 of the second base plate 23, on both sides of the first inclined surface 251. The height of the other side of the auxiliary inclined surface 27 in the second direction D2 is higher than the height of the side in the second direction D2. In other words, the height of the rear side of the auxiliary inclined surface 27 is higher than the height of the front side. When the rear end of the loading box 1 is raised so that the first sliding surface 181 is basically parallel to the first inclined surface 251, the two first mounting plates 131 are also basically parallel to the auxiliary inclined surface 27 they face, so that the loading box 1 can enter or slide out more smoothly.

[0045] See also Figure 8 The bottom surface 232 is also provided with communication slots 28 on both sides of the second inclined surface 253. A signal triggering device can be installed in the communication slots 28, such as a pressure-triggered signal triggering device. When the loading box 1 is loaded, pressure is applied to it, which can trigger a signal to indicate that the loading box 1 has been loaded.

[0046] See Figure 9 Furthermore, a discrimination slot 19 can be formed on one of the first mounting plates 131 of the first base plate 13. In conjunction with the signal triggering device within the communication slot 28, at least two types of loading boxes 1 can be distinguished. In other words, a discrimination slot 19 can be provided on either of the first mounting plates 131. The signal triggering device can trigger different signals based on the presence or absence of the discrimination slot 19 to indicate whether the loading box 1 has been loaded. Specifically, the location with the discrimination slot 19 will not exert pressure on the signal triggering device when the loading box 1 is loaded; the signal is triggered from the other side where the slot is not present. By installing signal triggering devices in both communication slots 28, discrimination slots 19 can be formed at different positions on different loading boxes 1. The left or right communication slot 28 can emit a trigger signal, or both communication slots 28 can emit trigger signals, indicating that different loading boxes can be loaded.

[0047] See also Figure 6 Limiting structures 26 are respectively provided on the rear sides of the second left side plate 211 and the second right side plate 212. The limiting structures 26 correspond to the slots 17 on the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112. The latching structures on the limiting structures 26 can extend into the slots 17 to restrict the movement of the loading box 1, further ensuring positional stability. Figure 10 As shown, the limiting structure 26 includes a spring 261, a rotating shaft 262, and a latch 263. One end of the rotating shaft 262 is connected to the latch 263, and the other end is connected to the spring 261 via a rod 264. When the end of the rod 264 away from the rotating shaft 262 is pressed, the spring 261 is stretched, and the other end of the rod 264 drives the latch 263 to spring up via the rotating shaft 262, allowing the latch 263 to move away from the slot 17. When the pressing force disappears, the spring 261 contracts, and the contraction force drives the rod 264 back to its original position. At the same time, the other end of the rod 264 drives the latch 263 to fall back via the rotating shaft 262, allowing the latch 263 to insert into the slot 17.

[0048] like Figure 11 As shown, by setting a limiting block 6 on the frame 4, when the placement compartment 2 moves to the position of the limiting block 6, the latch 263 is pushed up and away from the slot 17, at which point the loading box 1 can be placed or removed. When the placement compartment 2 moves to a position where it is not in contact with the limiting block 6, the spring 261 contracts, the latch 263 falls back and locks into the slot 17, at which point the placement compartment 2 and the loading box 1 are fixed to each other, and the loading box 1 cannot be removed.

[0049] Multiple limiting blocks 6 can be installed at appropriate locations on the frame 4, such as above the frame 4. Loading or unloading of the loading box 1 is performed from above the frame 4. As mentioned earlier, two slots 17 can be provided on the first left side plate 111 and the first right side plate 112, and two limiting structures 26 can be provided at corresponding positions on the second left side plate 211 and the second right side plate 212. Therefore, two limiting blocks 6 can also be provided on the frame 4, used for the insertion or ejection of the two limiting structures 26 within the two slots 17. The positions of the limiting blocks 6 should correspond to the positions of the limiting structures 26 and the slots 17.

[0050] Variations

[0051] As a variation of the present invention, a loading box 1A is also provided, which differs from the loading box 1 of the present invention described above in the configuration of the guide rail.

[0052] The guide rail 25 of the loading box 1 described above includes a first inclined surface 251, a transition surface 252, and a second inclined surface 253. In the modified loading box 1A, as shown... Figure 12 As shown, guide rail 25A may include only the first inclined surface 251 and the second inclined surface 253, excluding the transition surface 252. Specifically, guide rail 25A is disposed on the bottom surface 232 of the second base plate 23, extends along the second direction D2, and protrudes from the bottom surface 232 towards the first direction D1. The first inclined surface 251 and the second inclined surface 253 are connected to each other. Both the first inclined surface 251 and the second inclined surface 253 are inclined from the end they are connected to the other end. At the connection between the first inclined surface 251 and the second inclined surface 253, the protrusion of guide rail 25A towards the bottom surface 232 in the first direction D1 is the greatest. Viewed from the side, the cross-section of guide rail 25A is generally triangular.

[0053] Thus, when the loading box 1A is placed into the placement chamber 2, it basically goes through two stages. In the first stage, the first sliding surface 181 of the loading box 1A slides on the first inclined surface 251; in the second stage, the first sliding surface 181 slides on the second inclined surface 253. In the first stage, the loading box 1A initially enters the placement chamber 2, and it needs to be angled at a certain angle so that the first sliding surface 181 is basically parallel to the first inclined surface 251 in order to slide in smoothly. That is, the rear end of the loading box 1A needs to be raised to slide in smoothly, thus avoiding the risk of the slide 5 falling off from the rear end. In the second stage, the first sliding surface 181 is basically parallel to the second inclined surface 253. At this time, the first sliding surface 181 falls back to a state that is basically the same as when it is laid flat, and the loading box 1A is successfully loaded. The second sliding surface 182 cooperates with the first sliding surface 181. When the second sliding surface 182 enters the placement chamber 2, the first sliding surface 181 is in the second stage. At this time, the second sliding surface 182 and the first inclined surface 251 are in basically the same direction of inclination, and can slide in smoothly. When the installation is completed, the second sliding surface 182 is basically parallel to the first inclined surface 251, and becomes the same as when it is laid flat.

[0054] The loading box 1A is removed from the placement chamber 2, and the process involves two stages, roughly in the reverse order of the two stages described above: the second stage is performed first, followed by the first stage. Throughout the entire loading and unloading process, the glass slide 5 inside the loading box 1A remains safe and will not fall out.

[0055] According to the above-described embodiments and variations of the present invention, a novel slide assembly device is designed and manufactured. This device has a high-precision assembly structure, which effectively reduces assembly difficulty and improves assembly accuracy, ensuring that each component can be precisely assembled together, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the entire device. Furthermore, a special structure is designed for the slide assembly device, enabling smooth and wear-free installation of the cherry blossom slide box storage basket. The compact design minimizes its space occupation while ensuring functional integrity and improving the overall performance of the equipment. In addition, the placement chamber uses a magnetic suction structure and a limiting structure to fix the loading box, ensuring the accuracy of the loading box's position. Moreover, the placement chamber, by incorporating a sloped guide rail, reduces the risk of slides falling from the rear of the slide box storage basket during movement.

[0056] It should be noted that, in the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0057] In this specification, it should be understood that terms such as “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and “comprising” mean the presence of the stated features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0058] Those skilled in the art should understand that the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "back," "top," and "bottom," etc., used to indicate orientation or positional relationships in the embodiments of the present invention are based on the actual usage state of the pathology slide scanner slide assembly device. These terms are only for the convenience of describing and understanding the technical solutions of the present invention, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or instrument referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention.

[0059] Therefore, those skilled in the art should recognize that although numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described in detail herein, many other variations or modifications conforming to the principles of the present invention can be directly determined or derived from the disclosure of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the scope of the present invention should be understood and construed as covering all such other variations or modifications.

[0060] As can be understood from the description of the above embodiments, this specification includes disclosures in the following ways.

[0061] [Postscript 1]

[0062] An assembly apparatus is provided for use with a pathology slide scanner that accommodates a slide cassette basket for holding multiple slides.

[0063] include:

[0064] frame;

[0065] The placement compartment is fixed to the frame in a manner that allows it to move in a first direction; and

[0066] A loading box, which is detachably disposed within the placement compartment and carries the slice box storage basket,

[0067] The loading box includes:

[0068] Two first side plates are respectively arranged to extend along the first direction and the second direction intersecting the first direction, and the two first side plates are opposite each other in the third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction;

[0069] A connecting plate, disposed on one side of the two first side plates in the first direction, connects the two first side plates along the third direction, and together with the two first side plates forms an opening for inserting the slice box storage basket; and

[0070] A first base plate, which connects the two first side plates on the other side of the first direction.

[0071] The placement compartment includes:

[0072] Two second side plates are arranged extending along the first direction and the second direction, and the two second side plates are opposite each other in the third direction;

[0073] A top plate, which connects the two second side plates on one side in the first direction; and

[0074] The second base plate connects the two second side plates on the other side of the first direction.

[0075] On the other side of the two first side plates and the top plate in the second direction, a first magnetic attraction structure is respectively provided.

[0076] On the other side of the first base plate and the second base plate in the second direction, a second magnetic attraction structure is respectively provided.

[0077] The loading box and the placement compartment are magnetically secured together by the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure.

[0078] [Postscript 2]

[0079] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 1, wherein...

[0080] Both the first magnetic attraction structure and the second magnetic attraction structure are composed of metal parts and magnets.

[0081] The metal component includes screws or metal sheets.

[0082] In the first magnetic attraction structure

[0083] The metal component is disposed at the end of the two first side plates on the side facing the first direction.

[0084] The magnet is disposed on a stop block of the top plate near the two second side plates.

[0085] In the second magnetic attraction structure

[0086] The metal component is disposed at the end of the first base plate on the other side in the second direction.

[0087] The magnet is disposed on a baffle that stands upright on the side of the second base plate facing the first direction.

[0088] [Postscript 3]

[0089] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0090] On both sides of the second base plate in the third direction, a second mounting plate is respectively provided.

[0091] The spacing on one side of the second direction between the two second mounting plates is greater than the spacing on the other side of the second direction.

[0092] The second base plate is connected to the two second side plates via the second mounting plate.

[0093] [Postscript 4]

[0094] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0095] A guide rail extending along the second direction is provided on the second base plate.

[0096] The guide rail protrudes to one side in the first direction.

[0097] The guide rail includes a first inclined surface, a transition surface, and a second inclined surface.

[0098] The height of the transition surface in the first direction is higher than the height of the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface in the first direction.

[0099] Both the first inclined plane and the second inclined plane are inclined from one end near the transition surface to the other end.

[0100] [Postscript 5]

[0101] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0102] A slide rail extending along the second direction is provided on the first base plate.

[0103] The slide rail is recessed to one side in the first direction.

[0104] The slide rail includes a first sliding surface and a second sliding surface.

[0105] The concavity is greatest at the junction of the first and second sliding surfaces.

[0106] Both the first and second sliding surfaces are inclined from one end closer to the other.

[0107] [Postscript 6]

[0108] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 4, wherein...

[0109] In the second base plate, auxiliary inclined surfaces are provided on both sides of the third direction of the first inclined surface.

[0110] The height of the other side of the auxiliary inclined plane in the second direction is higher than the height of the side in the second direction.

[0111] [Postscript 7]

[0112] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 4, wherein...

[0113] Communication slots are provided on both sides of the second inclined surface in the third direction of the second base plate.

[0114] A signal triggering device is installed in the communication slot.

[0115] [Postscript 8]

[0116] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 7, wherein...

[0117] On both sides of the first base plate in the third direction, a first mounting plate is respectively provided.

[0118] The first base plate is connected to the two first side plates via the first mounting plate.

[0119] A discrimination slot is provided on any one of the first mounting plates.

[0120] The signal triggering device triggers different signals based on the presence or absence of the discrimination slot to indicate whether the loading box is loaded.

[0121] [Postscript 9]

[0122] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0123] On the opposite side of the two first side plates in the second direction, there are respectively a slot.

[0124] On the opposite side of the two second side plates in the second direction, at positions corresponding to the slots, limit structures are respectively provided.

[0125] The limiting structure includes a buckle, a pivot, and a spring.

[0126] One end of the rotating shaft is connected to the buckle, and the other end of the rotating shaft is connected to the spring via a rod.

[0127] The buckle secures the placement compartment and the loading box to each other in a manner that allows it to extend into the slot.

[0128] [Postscript 10]

[0129] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 9, wherein...

[0130] Multiple limit blocks are provided on the frame.

[0131] The limiting block is configured as follows:

[0132] When the limiting structure moves to a position contacting the limiting block, the latch moves away from the slot, allowing the loading box to be inserted or removed.

[0133] When the limiting structure moves to a position where it does not contact the limiting block, the buckle extends into the slot, and the loading box is fixed.

[0134] [Postscript 11]

[0135] According to the assembly apparatus described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0136] A guide rail extending along the second direction is provided on the second base plate.

[0137] The guide rail protrudes to one side in the first direction.

[0138] The guide rail includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface.

[0139] The first inclined plane and the second inclined plane are connected to each other.

[0140] At the junction of the first inclined plane and the second inclined plane, the guide rail protrudes to its maximum extent towards the side in the first direction.

[0141] Both the first and second inclined planes slope from one end connected to the other.

Claims

1. An assembly apparatus adapted to a pathology slide scanner for holding multiple slides in a slide tray storage basket. in, include: frame; The placement compartment is fixed to the frame in a manner that allows it to move in a first direction; and A loading box, which is detachably disposed within the placement compartment and carries the slice box storage basket, The loading box includes: Two first side plates are respectively arranged to extend along the first direction and the second direction intersecting the first direction, and the two first side plates are opposite each other in the third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction; A connecting plate, disposed on one side of the two first side plates in the first direction, connects the two first side plates along the third direction, and together with the two first side plates forms an opening for inserting the slice box storage basket; and A first base plate, which connects the two first side plates on the other side of the first direction. The placement compartment includes: Two second side plates are arranged extending along the first direction and the second direction, and the two second side plates are opposite each other in the third direction; A top plate, which connects the two second side plates on one side in the first direction; and The second base plate connects the two second side plates on the other side of the first direction. On the other side of the two first side plates and the top plate in the second direction, a first magnetic attraction structure is respectively provided. On the other side of the first base plate and the second base plate in the second direction, a second magnetic attraction structure is respectively provided. The loading box and the placement compartment are magnetically secured together by the first magnetic structure and the second magnetic structure.

2. The assembly device according to claim 1, wherein, Both the first magnetic attraction structure and the second magnetic attraction structure are composed of metal parts and magnets. The metal component includes screws or metal sheets. In the first magnetic attraction structure The metal component is disposed at the end of the two first side plates on the side facing the first direction. The magnet is disposed on a stop block of the top plate near the two second side plates. In the second magnetic attraction structure The metal component is disposed at the end of the first base plate on the other side in the second direction. The magnet is disposed on a baffle that stands upright on the side of the second base plate facing the first direction.

3. The assembly apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, On both sides of the second base plate in the third direction, a second mounting plate is respectively provided. The spacing on one side of the second direction between the two second mounting plates is greater than the spacing on the other side of the second direction. The second base plate is connected to the two second side plates via the second mounting plate.

4. The assembly apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A guide rail extending along the second direction is provided on the second base plate. The guide rail protrudes to one side in the first direction. The guide rail includes a first inclined surface, a transition surface, and a second inclined surface. The height of the transition surface in the first direction is higher than the height of the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface in the first direction. Both the first inclined plane and the second inclined plane are inclined from one end near the transition surface to the other end.

5. The assembly apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A slide rail extending along the second direction is provided on the first base plate. The slide rail is recessed to one side in the first direction. The slide rail includes a first sliding surface and a second sliding surface. The concavity is greatest at the junction of the first and second sliding surfaces. Both the first and second sliding surfaces are inclined from one end closer to the other.

6. The assembly apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, In the second base plate, auxiliary inclined surfaces are provided on both sides of the third direction of the first inclined surface. The height of the other side of the auxiliary inclined plane in the second direction is higher than the height of the side in the second direction.

7. The assembly apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, Communication slots are provided on both sides of the second inclined surface in the third direction of the second base plate. A signal triggering device is installed in the communication slot.

8. The assembly apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, On both sides of the first base plate in the third direction, a first mounting plate is respectively provided. The first base plate is connected to the two first side plates via the first mounting plate. A discrimination slot is provided on any one of the first mounting plates. The signal triggering device triggers different signals based on the presence or absence of the discrimination slot to indicate whether the loading box is loaded.

9. The assembly apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, On the opposite side of the two first side plates in the second direction, there are respectively a slot. On the opposite side of the two second side plates in the second direction, at positions corresponding to the slots, limit structures are respectively provided. The limiting structure includes a buckle, a pivot, and a spring. One end of the rotating shaft is connected to the buckle, and the other end of the rotating shaft is connected to the spring via a rod. The buckle secures the placement compartment and the loading box to each other in a manner that allows it to extend into the slot.

10. The assembly apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, Multiple limit blocks are provided on the frame. The limiting block is configured as follows: When the limiting structure moves to a position contacting the limiting block, the latch moves away from the slot, allowing the loading box to be inserted or removed. When the limiting structure moves to a position where it does not contact the limiting block, the buckle extends into the slot, and the loading box is fixed.

11. The assembly apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A guide rail extending along the second direction is provided on the second base plate. The guide rail protrudes to one side in the first direction. The guide rail includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface. The first inclined plane and the second inclined plane are connected to each other. At the junction of the first inclined plane and the second inclined plane, the guide rail protrudes to its maximum extent towards the side in the first direction. Both the first and second inclined planes slope from one end connected to the other.

Images