Full-automatic immunohistochemical staining and sealing integrated machine

The fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine integrates staining, mounting, and scanning functions, solving the problems of cumbersome operation and low efficiency in existing technologies. It achieves fully automated operation, improves equipment efficiency and detection accuracy, and supports 24-hour continuous flow mode.

CN122448602APending Publication Date: 2026-07-24JIAXING QUEST LIFE SCI
View PDF 0 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
JIAXING QUEST LIFE SCI
Filing Date
2026-04-24
Publication Date
2026-07-24

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing staining machines can only complete the staining process in the entire immunohistochemistry procedure on their own. The mounting process needs to be completed manually, which makes the operation cumbersome, inefficient, and prone to cross-contamination. In addition, the existing equipment is cumbersome to clean, has high time costs, and affects the test results.

Method used

Design a fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine that integrates staining, mounting, and scanning functions. It automatically processes slides through a transfer device, including staining, mounting, and scanning modules. It adopts independent staining and support mechanisms, and the interlocking design of the flip-top and base structures to achieve fully automated operation and reduce manual intervention.

Benefits of technology

It achieves a fully automated process from staining to mounting, improving equipment efficiency, reducing manual intervention, enhancing operational accuracy and repeatability, reducing the risk of waste liquid spillage and pollution, supporting 24-hour continuous flow mode, and significantly improving laboratory processing capacity.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN122448602A_ABST
    Figure CN122448602A_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present application belongs to the pathological diagnosis technical field in vitro diagnosis, technical field, automatic dyeing, automatic sealing is integrated into a whole automatic immunohistochemical dye sealing integrated machine. The automatic immunohistochemical dye sealing integrated machine is used for dyeing and sealing treatment of the glass slide with tissue, comprising a shell, a rack, a dyeing device, a sealing device, a sample loading device, a transfer device and a control device, the dyeing device, the sealing device, the sample loading device and the transfer device are all arranged on the rack and are all electrically connected with the control device, covered by the shell, the dyeing device, the sealing device and the sample loading device are arranged in different regions, the transfer device is movably arranged above the dyeing device, the sealing device and the sample loading device, the dyeing device comprises a dyeing module and a reagent module, and the sealing device comprises a sealing module and a slide cleaning module.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of pathological diagnosis technology in in vitro diagnostics, specifically a fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine that integrates automatic staining and automatic mounting. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, staining machines on the market can only complete the staining process in the entire immunohistochemistry process on their own. The mounting process needs to be completed manually or transferred to a dedicated mounting machine.

[0003] Tissue processing in the pathology department requires multiple steps. Although dehydration, staining, and mounting are automated, transfer still requires manual handling. Immunohistochemistry instruments can only support one round of experiments at night, with a utilization rate of only 25%-30%.

[0004] Commercially available staining apparatuses require manual placement of tissue slides and liquid covers before each experiment, and manual removal of slides and cleaning and replacement of liquid covers after each experiment. This process is cumbersome, inefficient, prone to errors, and susceptible to cross-contamination, thus affecting test results. Furthermore, after adding multiple reagents, the waste liquid after staining poses a risk of overflowing and contaminating or corroding the instrument's internal components. Existing staining apparatuses are also cumbersome to clean, time-consuming, and have long overall experimental times, resulting in a low number of samples that can be tested daily.

[0005] After staining, commercially available slides containing sample tissues usually require a coverslip to be placed on top. This serves two purposes: protecting the stained tissue and ensuring clearer scanning and more accurate diagnosis. Common mounting methods are primarily manual, and the coverslips are stacked, which can cause them to stick together. When manually removing and placing the coverslips onto the slide, two coverslips can easily stick together, making the process inconvenient. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the problems and defects of the existing technology, the present invention provides a fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine that is easy to operate and can automatically complete staining, mounting, scanning and other processes.

[0007] This fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine is used to stain and mount slides containing tissue. It includes a casing, frame, staining unit, mounting unit, sample loading unit, transfer unit, and control unit. The staining unit, mounting unit, sample loading unit, and transfer unit are all mounted on the frame and electrically connected to the control unit. Covered by the casing, the staining unit, mounting unit, and sample loading unit are arranged in separate areas. The transfer unit is movable above the staining unit, mounting unit, and sample loading unit. The staining unit includes a staining module and a reagent module. The mounting unit includes a mounting module and a slide cleaning module. Slides containing tissue are placed in the sample loading unit. The transfer unit moves the slides to the staining module, where they are stained with reagents from the reagent module. The transfer unit then moves the stained slides to the slide cleaning module, and finally, the mounting module mounts the stained slides.

[0008] Furthermore, the staining module includes multiple independent staining mechanisms and support mechanisms. The staining mechanisms are mounted on the frame via the support mechanisms. The reagent module includes a reagent area and a needle washing mechanism. The reagent area holds at least one reagent for staining, and the needle washing mechanism is used to clean the reagent needles.

[0009] Furthermore, the staining mechanism includes a flip-top structure and a base structure, which are rotatably connected to each other through a rotating connection structure. The slide is placed on the base structure. The flip-top structure includes a lower cover, an upper cover, and a liquid cover plate. The upper cover is located above the lower cover, and the liquid cover plate is located below the lower cover. The lower surface of the liquid cover plate has a recess. When the flip-top structure and the base structure are assembled, the liquid cover plate covers the slide, and a cavity is formed between the two.

[0010] Furthermore, the flip-top structure also includes a waste liquid needle movable component, one end of which moves sequentially through the upper cover, lower cover, and liquid cover plate, and the other end is connected to the waste liquid tank (not shown in the figure); the base structure includes a base and a hook assembly and a heating assembly disposed on the base, one end of which is movably connected to the base, and the other end is used to engage the flip-top structure with the base structure, and the heating assembly is used to heat the glass slide, with the glass slide placed above the heating assembly.

[0011] Furthermore, the waste liquid needle movable assembly includes a waste liquid needle, a waste liquid needle fixing block, and a waste liquid needle sliding sleeve. The waste liquid needle sliding sleeve is located between the upper cover and the lower cover. The lower end of the waste liquid needle passes through the upper cover, the waste liquid needle sliding sleeve, the lower cover, and the liquid cover plate in sequence, and abuts against the upper surface of the glass slide. The upper end of the waste liquid needle is fixed by the waste liquid needle fixing block.

[0012] Furthermore, the flip-top structure includes a liquid cover plate clamping assembly, which includes a pressure column and a pressure column spring. The pressure column spring is located between the upper cover and the lower cover, and the pressure column is sleeved inside the pressure column spring. The lower end of the pressure column extends out of the lower surface of the lower cover and abuts against the upper surface of the liquid cover plate.

[0013] Furthermore, the base structure also includes a slide clip assembly for fixing the slide by snapping it in place. The slide clip assembly includes a base clip, a spring, and a base slider. The base clip and the base slider are both located on the base, and the spring is located between the base clip and the base slider. All three are located at one end of the slide, and the other end of the slide is provided with a push-in spring. The hook assembly includes a hook, a torsion spring, and a hook pivot. The hook pivot is located on the base, and the hook and the torsion spring are sleeved on the hook pivot. When the flip-top structure and the base structure are pressed together, the hook engages with the lower cover.

[0014] Furthermore, the dyeing module also includes a heat dissipation mechanism located below the heating component. The heat dissipation mechanism includes a cooling fan and an air duct. The cooling fan is located below the air duct and is interconnected with it through the air duct. The cooling fan is electrically connected to the control device.

[0015] Furthermore, the reagent module also includes a mixing mechanism, which delivers different reagents to the mixing mechanism via a reagent needle for mixing to form a new reagent.

[0016] Furthermore, the sealing module includes a fixed base and a coverslip storage mechanism, a coverslip picking and placing mechanism, and a sealing liquid adding mechanism fixed on the fixed base, with the fixed base fixed to the frame.

[0017] Furthermore, the coverslip storage mechanism includes a coverslip box containing a certain number of coverslips that moves in the Y direction; the coverslip handling mechanism includes an X-direction moving structure, a Y-direction moving structure, and a Z-direction sealing head structure; the sealing and liquid adding mechanism includes a sealing structure, a UV curing structure, and a UV constant temperature structure; the coverslip box and the sealing structure both move horizontally in the Y direction via the Y-direction moving structure; the UV curing structure is fixed on a fixed base and located above the sealing structure; the Z-direction sealing head structure moves horizontally in the X direction via the X-direction moving structure; and the UV constant temperature structure is fixed on a fixed base.

[0018] Furthermore, the Z-direction sealing head structure includes a Z motor, a Z base plate, a suction cup assembly, a rotary R motor, a first transmission assembly, and a second transmission assembly. The rotary R motor is fixed on the Z base plate and connected to the suction cup assembly through the first transmission assembly. The Z motor is connected to the Z base plate through the second transmission assembly.

[0019] Furthermore, the first transmission assembly includes a rotating block, a second connecting rod, and a support block. The rotating block and the support block are sleeved on the output end of the rotary R motor. One end of the second connecting rod is rotatably connected to the rotating block, and the other end is rotatably connected to the first connecting rod. The second transmission assembly includes a Z-axis lifting bearing, a Z-axis lifting rod, and a Z-axis lifting arm. The Z-axis lifting rod is located on the output end of the Z motor, the Z-axis lifting bearing is located at one end of the Z-axis lifting rod, and the Z-axis lifting arm is connected to the Z-axis lifting bearing.

[0020] Furthermore, the suction cup assembly includes a suction cup, a limiting rod, and a suction cup base. The suction cup is movably fixed to the suction cup base via a rotating shaft. The suction cup base is connected to the first transmission assembly via a first connecting rod. The lower end of the limiting rod abuts against the suction cup base, and the upper end is fixed to a rotary R motor.

[0021] Furthermore, the UV constant temperature structure includes a UV glue needle, a constant temperature base plate assembly, and a heating block assembly. The UV glue needle is fixed by a glue needle fixing block, the heating block assembly is located outside the UV glue needle, and the constant temperature base plate assembly is located outside the heating block assembly.

[0022] Furthermore, the UV curing structure includes a UV lamp, which is fixed to a mounting base by a lamp cover.

[0023] Furthermore, the sealing module also includes a cover glass moisture-proof cover assembly, which is located above the cover glass box when the cover glass is not in use.

[0024] Furthermore, the cover slide module also includes a fragment collection component, which includes a fragment discarding slide, a fragment collection channel, and a collection box. The fragment discarding slide is located on one side of the cover slide box and is inclined. The lower end of the fragment discarding slide is located above the fragment collection channel, and the collection box is located below the fragment collection channel.

[0025] Furthermore, the slide cleaning module includes a cleaning tank and a drying mechanism.

[0026] Furthermore, the sample loading device includes at least two sample slide drawers, each sample slide drawer is provided with several slide holders, and each slide holder holds several tissue slides.

[0027] Furthermore, the one or more sample slide drawers are equipped with spare cover slide boxes.

[0028] Furthermore, the cover slide box includes a cover slide box body and a desiccant box. The cover slide box has symmetrically arranged grooves on two sides, and each groove has a pair of symmetrically arranged protrusions. The desiccant box has several through holes on its side and a desiccant box cover at the top.

[0029] Furthermore, the upper protrusion of the pair of protrusions is a vertically arranged rectangular block, and the lower protrusion is a horizontally arranged rectangular block, or both protrusions are square blocks, or both protrusions are arc-shaped protrusions.

[0030] Furthermore, the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine also includes an online scanning device, which includes a scanner, a slide gripper module, and a scanning storage module. After staining and mounting, the slides are transferred to the scanning storage module through the slide gripper module, and then each slide is scanned and inspected by the scanner to generate an inspection report.

[0031] The transfer device for a fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine includes a first arm group, a second arm group, and a third arm group. The first arm group moves above the reagent module and the staining module. The first arm group is used to move to the staining module to add reagents after the reagent module has drawn the reagents. The second arm group moves above the staining module. The second arm group is used to add system solutions. The third arm group moves above the reagent module, the staining module, and the mounting module. The third arm group is used to clamp and load the slides, enabling the movement and flipping of the slides, and also has the function of switching the staining module on and off.

[0032] Furthermore, the third arm assembly includes an X-axis mechanism, a Y-axis mechanism, and a Z-axis mechanism. The X-axis mechanism is fixed to the frame, the Y-axis mechanism is slidably mounted on the X-axis mechanism and moves in the X direction, the Z-axis mechanism is slidably mounted on the Y-axis mechanism and moves in the Y direction, and the Z-axis mechanism itself moves in the Z direction.

[0033] Furthermore, the Z-axis mechanism includes a Z-axis base plate, a Z-axis motor, a lead screw assembly, and an electric gripper. The output end of the Z-axis motor is connected to the lead screw assembly, and the electric gripper is connected to the lead screw assembly through a slider assembly. The slider assembly includes a Z-axis guide rail and a Z-axis slider. The Z-axis guide rail is fixed to the Z-axis base plate, and the Z-axis slider is slidably disposed on the Z-axis guide rail.

[0034] Furthermore, the electric gripper includes a rotary Z-motor mounted on the Z-axis slider, a gripper assembly, and a drive connection assembly. The gripper assembly includes two symmetrically arranged grippers, a rotary shaft fixed on the Z-axis slider, and a gripper drive. The two grippers are sleeved on the rotary shaft, and each gripper is equipped with a gripper drive block, which is also sleeved on the rotary shaft. The lower end of the gripper drive is connected to the rotary shaft, and the upper end is electrically connected to the control device.

[0035] Furthermore, a push rod is also fitted onto the rotating shaft.

[0036] Furthermore, the electric gripper also includes a first zero-position sensor and a first zero-position plate. The first zero-position plate is sleeved on one end of the rotating shaft, and the first zero-position sensor is located on one side of the first zero-position plate. The drive connection assembly includes a synchronous pulley, a second zero-position sensor, and a second zero-position plate. The second zero-position plate is located on the Z-axis slider, and the second sensor is located on one side of the second zero-position plate. The output end of the rotary Z motor is connected to the input end of the synchronous pulley, and the output end of the synchronous pulley is connected to the rotating shaft. The rotary Z motor, the first zero-position sensor, and the second zero-position sensor are all electrically connected to the control device.

[0037] Furthermore, the ends of the grippers are provided with a first groove and a second groove that are perpendicular to each other. When a glass slide is clamped, the glass slide is held between the two first grooves of the two grippers.

[0038] Furthermore, a barcode scanner is fixedly mounted on the Z-axis slider via a barcode scanner bracket. The barcode scanner is located above the glass slide and is electrically connected to the control device.

[0039] Furthermore, a reflection sensor is provided on the Z-axis slider, located between the two grippers and above the glass slide, and the reflection sensor is electrically connected to the control device.

[0040] Furthermore, one end of the X-axis mechanism is provided with a code disk and a code disk optocoupler that cooperate with each other, the Y-axis mechanism is also provided with a Y-axis zero-position optocoupler and a Y-axis zero-position piece that cooperate with each other, and the Z-axis mechanism is also provided with a Z-axis zero-position optocoupler and a Z-axis zero-position piece that cooperate with each other. The code disk optocoupler, the X-axis zero-position optocoupler, the Y-axis zero-position optocoupler, and the Z-axis zero-position optocoupler are all electrically connected to the control device.

[0041] The beneficial effects of this invention are: The fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting system integrates staining, mounting, and scanning functions through automated slide transfer, increasing the sample loading area capacity and supporting sample loading and unloading at any time, enabling unattended operation overnight. It transforms the traditional batch mode into a continuous flow mode 24 / 7, achieving a more efficient workflow. The equipment's off-duty time is typically 3-4 hours, but in continuous flow mode, it can be extended to more than 12 hours, significantly improving equipment utilization efficiency and greatly increasing the laboratory's processing capacity. The introduction of the integrated staining and mounting concept, combined with the docking of scanning equipment, enables a truly fully automated process from staining to mounting, reducing manual intervention and improving the accuracy and repeatability of operations.

[0042] The staining apparatus uses active suction to drain the liquid, which greatly reduces the risk of waste liquid overflowing and contaminating or corroding the inside of the apparatus. At the same time, compared with existing common staining apparatuses, it is faster to clean and can reduce the overall experimental time.

[0043] Each staining unit in the staining module is independently set up, supporting more different staining procedures in the same round of experiments, and offering greater flexibility in loading tissue slides adapted to different procedures. Individual setups facilitate different tests on different samples. Different detection procedures require different reagent incubation, temperature control, and other steps; independent staining units can be temperature-controlled independently. The support structure facilitates the fixation of the staining units. The quantity and type of staining agents stored in the reagent area can be set according to different detection procedures, improving the compatibility of the integrated staining module. The needle washing mechanism is designed for easy cleaning of reagent needles, which come into contact with different reagents during use and require regular cleaning to ensure detection accuracy.

[0044] The staining mechanism adopts a rotating and flipping design, which enables the entire operation process to be fully automated. The interlocking of the flip-top structure and the base structure can be achieved by a robotic arm. During the staining process, the two are in an interlocking state, and after the staining is completed, the two are in an open state, making it easy to remove the slide from the base structure.

[0045] When the flip-top structure and the base structure are pressed together, the hook engages with the lower cover. When it is necessary to open the flip-top structure, the hook is disengaged from the lower cover by an externally installed mechanical arm. At this time, the flip-top structure flips upward and springs up. Under the action of the torsion spring inside the rotating connection structure, the hook returns to its original position. This flip-top design is convenient to operate and reliable in performance.

[0046] After staining, a small amount of liquid may form a liquid film in the cavity between the liquid cover plate and the slide. Due to the surface tension of the liquid, the slide will stick to the liquid cover plate and cannot be separated by its own weight. The slide clip assembly can prevent the liquid cover plate from sticking to the slide.

[0047] In addressing the issue of coverslips sticking together, the sealing device utilizes a specific motion path and detection method to significantly reduce the probability of two or more coverslips being placed on a single slide at the same time. Furthermore, the inclusion of a coverslip breakage detection mechanism further ensures a higher success rate for complete coverslip placement.

[0048] The mounting medium used in the mounting device can effectively solve these problems. For slides with sample tissue, it can solidify immediately after the coverslip is placed. After solidification, the slide can be viewed and transferred for storage immediately. For the tubing, there is no need to consider the problem of frequent cleaning due to the solidification of the mounting medium. The application of UV glue for mounting achieves the function of instant solidification. After solidification, the sample can be placed vertically, reducing the space required for placement. Moreover, the microscopic observation effect after mounting is consistent with that of neutral resin.

[0049] A mounting device is used in the mounting process of pathological samples after staining on glass slides. It is particularly compatible with immunohistochemical staining machines, enabling fully automated processes including dewaxing, antigen retrieval, staining, dehydration, and mounting. The mounting device includes a mounting base, a coverslip storage mechanism, a coverslip loading and unloading mechanism, a mounting liquid dispensing mechanism, and a control unit, achieving fully automated mounting. Attached Figure Description

[0050] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a top view of a fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine.

[0053] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the staining mechanism.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a side view of the dyeing mechanism.

[0055] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the flip-top structure.

[0056] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the base structure.

[0057] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the staining module.

[0058] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the heat dissipation mechanism.

[0059] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid cover plate.

[0060] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the liquid cover plate and the glass slide.

[0061] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the cover slide box.

[0062] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the sealing module.

[0063] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the X-axis moving structure.

[0064] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the coverslip handling mechanism and the liquid filling mechanism.

[0065] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the Z-axis sealing head structure.

[0066] Figure 16 This is an exploded view of the Z-axis cover head structure.

[0067] Figure 17 This is an exploded view of the Z-axis cover head structure.

[0068] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the UV constant temperature structure.

[0069] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the third arm assembly.

[0070] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the Z-axis mechanism.

[0071] Figure 21 This is an exploded view of the Z-axis mechanism.

[0072] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the gripper structure.

[0073] The component names in the diagram are labeled as follows: 1. Glass slide; 11. Coverslip; 2. Reagent needle; 3. Frame; 4. Staining module; 41. Staining mechanism; 411. Flip-top structure; 4111. Lower cover; 4112. Upper cover; 4113. Liquid cover plate; 4113a. Recess; 4114. Waste liquid needle movable assembly; 4114a. Waste liquid needle; 4114b. Waste liquid needle fixing block; 4114c. Waste liquid needle sliding sleeve; 4115. Liquid cover plate clamping assembly; 4115a. Pressure column; 4115b. Pressure column spring; 412. Base structure; 4121. Base; 4122. Hook assembly; 4122a. Hook; 4122b. Torsion spring; 4122c. Hook pivot; 4123. Heating assembly; 4124. Slide clip assembly; 4124a. 4124b, base clip; 4124c, base slider; 4124d, push-in spring; 413, rotating connection structure; 414, cavity; 42, support mechanism; 43, heat dissipation mechanism; 431, cooling fan; 432, air duct; 5, reagent module; 51, reagent area; 52, needle washing mechanism; 53, mixing mechanism; 6, sealing module; 61, fixing seat; 62, coverslip storage mechanism; 621, coverslip box; 6211, coverslip box body; 6212, desiccant box; 6213, groove; 6214, protrusion; 6215, through hole; 6216, desiccant box cover; 63, coverslip picking and placing mechanism; 631, X-axis moving structure; 632, Y-axis moving structure; 633, Z-axis sealing... Title Block Structure; 6331, Z-Motor; 6332, Z-Base Plate; 6333, Suction Cup Assembly; 6333a, Suction Cup; 6333b, Limiting Rod; 6333c, Suction Cup Seat; 6333d, First Connecting Rod; 6333f, Rotating Shaft; 6334, Rotary R-Motor; 6335, First Transmission Assembly; 6335a, Rotating Block; 6335b, Second Connecting Rod; 6335c, Support Block; 6336, Second Transmission Assembly; 6336a, Z-Directional Lifting Bearing; 6336b, Z-Directional Lifting Rod; 6336c, Z-Directional Lifting Arm; 64, Sealing and Liquid Addition Mechanism; 641, Sealing Structure; 642, UV Curing Structure; 6421, Lamp Cover; 643, UV Constant Temperature Structure; 6431, UV Glue Needle; 64 32. Constant Temperature Base Plate Assembly; 6433. Heating Block Assembly; 6434. Glue Needle Fixing Block; 65. Cover Slide Moisture-proof Cover Assembly; 66. Debris Collection Assembly; 661. Debris Disposal Slide; 662. Debris Collection Channel; 7. Slide Cleaning Module; 8. Third Arm Assembly; 81. X-axis Mechanism; 82. Y-axis Mechanism; 83. Z-axis Mechanism; 831. Z-axis Base Plate; 832. Z-axis Motor; 833. Lead Screw Assembly; 834. Electric Gripper; 8341. Rotary Z-Motor; 8342. Gripper Assembly; 8342a. Gripper; 8342b. Rotating Shaft; 8342c. Gripper Drive; 8342d. Gripper Drive Block; 8342e. Top Rod; 8343. Drive Connection Assembly; 8343a. Synchronous Belt Pulley;8343b, Second zero-position sensor; 8343c, Second zero-position plate; 8344, First zero-position sensor; 8345, First zero-position plate; 835, Slider assembly; 8351, Z-axis guide rail; 8352, Z-axis slider; 9, First arm assembly; 10, Second arm assembly; 12, Sample slide drawer; 121, Slide holder; 13, Scanner; 14, Slide gripper module; 15, Scan storage module; 16, First groove; 17, Second groove; 18, Barcode scanner bracket; 19, Barcode scanner; 20, Reflection sensor; 21, Code disk; 22, Code disk optocoupler; 25, Y-axis zero-position optocoupler; 27, Z-axis zero-position optocoupler. Detailed Implementation

[0074] The present invention will be further illustrated below with specific implementation examples. However, these examples are only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0075] Fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine, such as Figures 1-22 As shown, a device for staining and mounting a slide 1 containing tissue includes a housing, a frame 3, a staining device, a mounting device, a sample loading device, a transfer device, and a control device. The staining device, mounting device, sample loading device, and transfer device are all mounted on the frame 3 and electrically connected to the control device. Covered by the housing, the staining device, mounting device, and sample loading device are arranged in separate areas. The transfer device is movable above the staining device, mounting device, and sample loading device. The staining device includes a staining module 4 and a reagent module 5. The mounting device includes a mounting module 6 and a slide cleaning module 7. The slide 1 containing tissue is placed in the sample loading device. The transfer device moves the slide 1 containing tissue to the staining module 4, where it is stained with reagents from the reagent module 5. The stained slide 1 is then moved to the slide cleaning module 7 via the transfer device, and finally, the stained slide 1 is mounted via the mounting module 6. The staining process requires the addition of reagents. After staining, the slide cleaning module 7 needs to clean and dry the slide 1 to prepare for the next step of mounting.

[0076] In this embodiment, the staining module 4 includes sixty independent staining mechanisms 41 and six support mechanisms 42. Every five staining mechanisms 41 are mounted on the frame 3 via a support mechanism 42. The reagent module 5 includes a reagent area 51 and a needle washing mechanism 52. The reagent area 51 holds various reagents for staining, and the needle washing mechanism 52 is used to clean the reagent needles 2. Each staining unit 41 is set up independently to facilitate different tests on different samples. Different test procedures require different reagent incubation, temperature control steps, etc. The independent staining unit 41 can be temperature controlled independently. In this embodiment, there are six rows of staining units 41, each row including ten staining units 41, for a total of sixty staining units 41. Each row of staining units 41 requires a support mechanism 42. The function of the support mechanism 42 is to facilitate the fixation of the staining units 41. The quantity and type of staining agent stored in the reagent area 51 can be set according to different test procedures, so that the integrated staining module 4 has better compatibility. The needle washing mechanism 52 is set up to facilitate the cleaning of reagent needles 2. Reagent needles 2 need to come into contact with different reagents during use. In order to ensure the accuracy of the test, they need to be cleaned regularly. The structural design of the needle washing mechanism 52 can adopt existing technologies on the market, which are already relatively mature technologies.

[0077] In this embodiment, the staining mechanism 41 includes a flip-top structure 411 and a base structure 412, which are rotatably connected to each other by a rotating connection structure 413. The glass slide 1 is placed on the base structure 412. The flip-top structure 411 includes a lower cover 4111, an upper cover 4112, and a liquid cover plate 4113. The upper cover 4112 is located above the lower cover 4111, and the liquid cover plate 4113 is located below the lower cover 4111. The lower surface of the liquid cover plate 4113 has a recess 4113a. When the flip-top structure 411 and the base structure 412 are assembled, the liquid cover plate 4113 covers the glass slide 1, and a cavity 414 is formed between the two. The staining mechanism 41 adopts a rotating and flipping design, which enables the entire operation process to be fully automated. The interlocking of the flip-top structure 411 and the base structure 412 can be achieved through the third arm group 8. During the staining process, the two are in an interlocking state, and after the staining is completed, the two are in an open state, which makes it easy to remove the slide 1 from the base structure 412. The liquid cover plate 4113 can limit the staining area to a certain range of the tissue sample on the slide 1. By controlling the area and depth of the recess 4113a on the liquid cover plate 4113 during the design, the size of the cavity 414 can be controlled, thereby controlling the staining area during the staining process and making the staining effect better. The liquid cover plate 4113 can be used multiple times without needing to be replaced each time.

[0078] In this embodiment, the flip-top structure 411 further includes a waste liquid needle movable assembly 4114. One end of the waste liquid needle movable assembly 4114 moves sequentially through the upper cover 4112, the lower cover 4111, and the liquid cover plate 4113, and the other end is connected to the waste liquid tank (not shown in the figure). The waste liquid needle movable assembly 4114 includes a waste liquid needle 4114a, a waste liquid needle fixing block 4114b, and a waste liquid needle sliding sleeve 4114c. The waste liquid needle sliding sleeve 4114c is disposed between the upper cover 4112 and the lower cover 4111. The lower end of the waste liquid needle 4114a passes sequentially through the upper cover 4112, the waste liquid needle sliding sleeve 4114c, the lower cover 4111, and the liquid cover plate 4113, and abuts against the upper surface of the glass slide 1. The upper end of the waste liquid needle 4114a is fixed by the waste liquid needle fixing block 4114b. The waste liquid needle movable component 4114 is designed to facilitate the removal of waste liquid after reagent incubation. The waste liquid in the cavity 414 is removed by a waste liquid extraction system (not shown in the figure, the technical solution is an existing liquid extraction system on the market, including but not limited to the method of actively suctioning waste liquid using a waste liquid extraction system with negative pressure). The design of the waste liquid needle sliding sleeve 4114c is to facilitate low resistance when the waste liquid needle 4114a moves up and down.

[0079] In this embodiment, the flip-top structure 411 further includes a liquid cover plate pressing assembly 4115, which includes a pressing column 4115a and a pressing column spring 4115b. The pressing column spring 4115b is disposed between the upper cover 4112 and the lower cover 4111, and the pressing column 4115a is sleeved inside the pressing column spring 4115b. The lower end of the pressing column 4115a extends out of the lower surface of the lower cover 4111 and abuts against the upper surface of the liquid cover plate 4113. The pressing column 4115a and the pressing column spring 4115b are used to press the liquid cover plate 4113 downward. When the liquid cover plate 4113 and the glass slide 1 are in contact, the two are more tightly fitted, preventing the liquid added to the cavity 414 from flowing out from the gap between the liquid cover plate 4113 and the glass slide 1.

[0080] In this embodiment, the base structure 412 includes a base 4121, a hook assembly 4122, and a heating assembly 4123 disposed on the base. One end of the hook assembly 4122 is movably connected to the base 4121, and the other end is used to engage the flip cover structure 411 with the base structure 412. The heating assembly 4123 is used to heat the glass slide 1, and the glass slide 1 is placed above the heating assembly 4123. The hook assembly 4122 includes a hook 4122a, a torsion spring 4122b, and a hook pivot 4122c. The hook pivot 4122c is disposed on the base 4121, and the hook 4122a and the torsion spring 4122b are sleeved on the hook pivot 4122c. When the flip cover structure 411 and the base structure 412 are pressed together, the hook 4122a engages with the lower cover 4111. When the flip cover structure 411 and the base structure 412 are pressed together, the hook 4122a engages with the lower cover 4111. When it is necessary to open the flip cover structure 411, the hook 4122a is moved by the transfer device to disengage from the lower cover 4111. At this time, the flip cover structure 411 flips upward and springs up. Under the action of the torsion spring in the rotating connection structure 413, the hook 4122a returns to its original position. The hook assembly 4122 is mainly used to engage the flip cover structure 411 and the base structure 412. Through the design of the torsion spring 4122b and the hook pivot 4122c, the hook assembly 4122 can be engaged or disengaged under the action of the third arm assembly 8. The heating assembly 4123 is used to heat the glass slide 1.

[0081] In this embodiment, the base structure 412 further includes a slide clip assembly 4124 for fixing the slide 1 by snapping. The slide clip assembly 4124 includes a base clip 4124a, a spring 4124b, and a base slider 4124c. The base clip 4124a and the base slider 4124c are both disposed on the base 4121, and the spring 4124b is disposed between the base clip 4124a and the base slider 4124c. All three are located on the base. One end of the slide 1 and the other end of the slide 1 are provided with a push-in spring 4124d. When the flip cover structure 411 and the base structure 412 are engaged with each other, the base slider 4124c compresses the spring 4124b, and the push-in spring 4124d is used to push the right end of the slide 1 into the base buckle 4124a. When the flip cover structure 411 and the base structure 412 are opened, the spring 4124b returns to its original shape, the base slider 4124c slides out to the left, and the slide 1 slides out of the base buckle 4124a. After staining, a small amount of liquid may form a liquid film in the cavity 414 between the liquid cover plate 4113 and the slide 1. Due to the surface tension of the liquid, the slide 1 will stick to the liquid cover plate 4113 and cannot be separated by its own weight. The slide latch assembly 4124 can prevent the liquid cover plate 4113 from sticking to the slide 1. When the flip structure 411 and the base structure 412 are closed, the spring 4124d is pushed in to push the slide 1 into the base latch 4124a. When it is opened, the base latch 4124a hooks the slide 1, causing the two to separate. When it is opened to a certain angle until it is fully opened, the base slider 4124c pushes the slide out of the base latch 4124a. At this time, the slide 1 can be taken out. The spring 4124b and the base slider 4124c can push the slide 1 back to the initial position.

[0082] In this embodiment, the dyeing module further includes a heat dissipation mechanism 43 located below the heating component 4123. The heat dissipation mechanism 43 includes a cooling fan 431 and an air duct 432. The cooling fan 431 is located below the air duct 432 and is interconnected with each other through the air duct 432. The cooling fan 431 is electrically connected to the control device. Every five adjacent dyeing components 41 share one air duct 432. Two cooling fans 431 are installed in one air duct 432 to dissipate heat from the heating component 4123 and accelerate the temperature drop.

[0083] In this embodiment, the reagent module 5 further includes a mixing mechanism 53, which transports different reagents to the mixing mechanism 53 via the reagent needle 2 for mixing to form a new reagent. Different reagents are required for samples used to detect different items, and some reagents need to be prepared on-site. The mixing mechanism 53 facilitates the preparation of mixed reagents for the staining process. The structure of the mixing mechanism 53 adopts existing mixing mechanisms on the market, such as vibration mixing.

[0084] In this embodiment, the sealing module 6 includes a mounting base 61 and a coverslip storage mechanism 62, a coverslip picking and placing mechanism 63, and a sealing liquid adding mechanism 64 fixed on the mounting base 61. The mounting base 61 is fixed to the frame 3. The main function of the mounting base 61 is to provide a platform for the coverslip storage mechanism 62, the coverslip picking and placing mechanism 63, the sealing liquid adding mechanism 64, and the control device, thereby realizing the sealing process.

[0085] In this embodiment, the coverslip storage mechanism 62 includes a coverslip box 621 that moves in the Y direction and stores a certain number of coverslips 11. The coverslip taking and placing mechanism 63 includes an X-direction moving structure 631, a Y-direction moving structure 632, and a Z-direction sealing head structure 633. The sealing and liquid adding mechanism 64 includes a sealing structure 641, a UV curing structure 642, and a UV constant temperature structure 643. The coverslip box 621 and the sealing structure 641 both move horizontally in the Y direction via the Y-direction moving structure 632. The UV curing structure 642 is fixed on the fixing base 61 and located above the sealing structure 641. The Z-direction sealing head structure 633 moves horizontally in the X direction via the X-direction moving structure 631. The UV constant temperature structure 643 is fixed on the fixing base 61. The Z-direction sealing head structure 633 can move in the X and Z directions to complete the operation of picking up and putting in the coverslip 11. The coverslip box 621 and the sealing structure 641 can move in the Y direction through the Y-direction moving structure 632. The coverslip box 621 can move to the bottom of the Z-direction sealing head structure 633, and the sealing structure 641 can move to the bottom of the UV curing structure 642. The UV constant temperature structure 643 moves horizontally in the X direction, while the sealing structure 641 moves in the Y direction. This allows the UV adhesive in the UV constant temperature structure 643 to be applied to the slide 1 placed on the sealing structure 641. After the UV adhesive is applied, the coverslip box 621 moves along the Y direction to below the sealing head structure 633 in the Z direction. The sealing head structure 633 moves downward along the Z direction to the coverslip box 621 to take a coverslip 11 and place it on the slide 1 with UV adhesive. The UV adhesive makes the slide 1 and the coverslip 11 adhere together. The sealing structure 641 continues to move along the Y direction to below the UV curing structure 642 for curing.

[0086] In this embodiment, the Z-direction sealing head structure 633 includes a Z motor 6331, a Z base plate 6332, a suction cup assembly 6333, a rotary R motor 6334, a first transmission assembly 6335, and a second transmission assembly 6336. The rotary R motor 6334 is fixed on the Z base plate 6332 and is connected to the suction cup assembly 6333 through the first transmission assembly 6335. The Z motor 6331 is connected to the Z base plate 6332 through the second transmission assembly 6336. The suction cup assembly 6333 includes a suction cup 6333a, a limiting rod 6333b, and a suction cup base 6333c. The suction cup 6333a is fixed on the suction cup base 6333c. The suction cup base 6333c is connected to the first transmission assembly 6335 through a first connecting rod 6333d. The lower end of the limiting rod 6333b is connected to the suction cup base 6333c through a rotating shaft 6333f, and the upper end is connected to the Z-base plate 6332. The first transmission assembly 6335 includes a rotating block 6335a, a second connecting rod 6335b, and a support block 6335c. The rotating block 6335a and the support block 6335c are sleeved on the output end of the rotary R motor 6334. One end of the second connecting rod 6335b is rotatably connected to the rotating block 6335a, and the other end is rotatably connected to the first connecting rod 6333d. The second transmission assembly 6336 includes a Z-axis lifting bearing 6336a, a Z-axis lifting rod 6336b, and a Z-axis lifting arm 6336c. The Z-axis lifting rod 6336b is located on the output end of the Z motor 6331. The Z-axis lifting bearing 6336a is located at one end of the Z-axis lifting rod 6336b. The Z-axis lifting arm 6336c is connected to the Z-axis lifting bearing 6336a. The Z-base plate 6332 facilitates the fixation of the suction cup assembly 6333 onto the X-direction moving structure 631, and the Z-direction sealing head structure 633 can move up and down along the Z-direction. The Z-direction sealing head structure 633 adopts the principle of converting the circular rotation of the rotary R motor 6334 into linear motion. When the Z-direction sealing head structure 633 rises, the rotary R motor 6334 rotates, and the Z-direction lifting bearing 6336a drives the Z-direction sealing head structure 633 to rise. When the Z-direction sealing head structure 633 falls, the rotary R motor 6334 rotates, and the Z-direction sealing head structure 633 falls by its own gravity. The rotary R motor 6334 provides different angles for picking up and placing the cover glass 11.

[0087] In this embodiment, the UV constant temperature structure 643 includes a UV glue needle 6431, a constant temperature base plate assembly 6432, and a heating block assembly 6433. The UV glue needle 6431 is fixed by a glue needle fixing block 6434. The heating block assembly 6433 is located outside the UV glue needle 6431, and the constant temperature base plate assembly 6432 is located outside the heating block assembly 6433. During the sealing process, after the UV glue is applied and the coverslip 11 is placed on top, the UV glue needs a certain amount of time to diffuse to ensure that the overlapping part of the coverslip 11 and the slide 1 is filled with glue. The temperature of the UV glue affects the diffusion rate of the glue to a certain extent. The UV glue constant temperature structure 643 can heat the UV glue to the optimal temperature.

[0088] In this embodiment, the UV curing structure 642 includes a UV lamp, which is fixed to the mounting base 61 by a lampshade 6421. The UV lamp provides a light environment for the curing of the sealing adhesive, greatly improving the sealing efficiency.

[0089] In this embodiment, the sealing module 6 further includes a coverslip moisture-proof cover assembly 65. When the coverslip 11 is not in use, the coverslip moisture-proof cover assembly 65 is located above the coverslip box 621. When the coverslip 11 is not in use, the coverslip moisture-proof cover assembly 65 can prevent moisture, dust, etc. from falling onto the coverslip 11, and can also protect the coverslip 11 inside the coverslip box 521 from moisture to a certain extent.

[0090] In this embodiment, the cover slide module 6 further includes a fragment collection component 66, which includes a fragment discarding slide 661, a fragment collection channel 662, and a collection box (not shown in the figure). The fragment discarding slide 662 is located on one side of the coverslip box 621 and is inclined. The lower end of the fragment discarding slide 661 is located above the fragment collection channel 662, and the collection box is located below the fragment collection channel 662. The coverslips 11 in the coverslip box 621 may be broken, and broken coverslips 11 may also be generated during the handling of the coverslips 11. In this case, the broken coverslips 11 are unusable and need to be discarded onto the discarding slide 661, sliding into the fragment collection channel 662 by gravity, and finally reaching the collection box.

[0091] In this embodiment, the slide cleaning module 7 includes a cleaning tank and a drying mechanism. The cleaning tank is used to store the slides 1 that need to be cleaned, and after cleaning, they are dried by the drying mechanism to facilitate further sealing.

[0092] In this embodiment, the sample loading device includes two sample slide drawers 12, each sample slide drawer 12 containing six slide holders 121, and each slide holder 121 holding multiple slides 1 containing tissue. One of the sample slide drawers 12 is equipped with a spare coverslip box 621 for later use.

[0093] In this embodiment, the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine also includes an online scanning device, which comprises a scanner 13, a slide gripper module 14, and a scan storage module 15. After staining and mounting, the slides 1 are transferred to the scan storage module 15 via the slide gripper module 14. Then, the scanner 13 scans and inspects each slide 1, generating an inspection report. A scan storage module 15 can also be installed at the mounting device to buffer the mounted slides 1. The online scanning device enables scanning and inspection of the slides 1 after staining and mounting, achieving complete automation.

[0094] The transfer device for a fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and mounting machine includes a first arm group 9, a second arm group 10, and a third arm group 8. The first arm group 9 moves above the reagent module 5 and the staining module 4. The first arm group is used to move to the staining module 4 to add reagents after the reagent module 5 has absorbed the reagents. The second arm group 10 moves above the staining module 4. The second arm group 10 is used to add system liquid. The third arm group 8 moves above the reagent module 5, the staining module 4, and the mounting module 6. The third arm group 8 is used to clamp and load the transport slide 1, enabling the movement and flipping of the slide 1, and also has the function of switching the staining module 4 on and off.

[0095] In this embodiment, the third arm assembly 8 includes an X-axis mechanism 81, a Y-axis mechanism 82, and a Z-axis mechanism 83. The X-axis mechanism 81 is fixed to the frame 3. The Y-axis mechanism 82 is slidably mounted on the X-axis mechanism 81 and moves in the X direction. The Z-axis mechanism 83 is slidably mounted on the Y-axis mechanism 82 and moves in the Y direction. The Z-axis mechanism 83 itself moves in the Z direction. The third arm assembly 8 enables movement in three directions, thereby ensuring the smooth movement and flipping of the slide 1 during staining, mounting, and scanning processes. The X-axis mechanism 81 is supported by double guide rails and driven by a synchronous belt.

[0096] In this embodiment, the Z-axis mechanism 83 includes a Z-axis base plate 831, a Z-axis motor 832, a lead screw assembly 833, and an electric gripper 834. The output end of the Z-axis motor 832 is connected to the lead screw assembly 833. The electric gripper 834 is connected to the lead screw assembly 833 through a slider assembly 835. The slider assembly 835 includes a Z-axis guide rail 8351 and a Z-axis slider 8352. The Z-axis guide rail 8351 is fixed on the Z-axis base plate 831, and the Z-axis slider 8352 is slidably disposed on the Z-axis guide rail 8351. The electric gripper 834 includes a rotary Z-motor 8341 mounted on a Z-axis slider 8352, a gripper assembly 8342, and a drive connection assembly 8343. The gripper assembly 8342 includes two symmetrically arranged grippers 8342a, a rotary shaft 8342b fixed on the Z-axis slider 8352, and a gripper drive 8342c. The two grippers 8342a are sleeved on the rotary shaft 8342b, and each gripper 8342a is equipped with a gripper drive block 8342d, which is also sleeved on the rotary shaft 8342b. The lower end of the gripper drive 8342c is connected to the rotary shaft 8342b, and the upper end is electrically connected to the control device. The Y-axis mechanism 82 is supported by a linear guide rail and driven by a synchronous belt; the Z-axis mechanism 83 is supported by a linear guide rail and driven by a lead screw assembly 833; the rotating shaft 8342b is supported by a splined shaft and driven by a synchronous belt; the electric gripper 834 is used to grip the slide 1 or the cover slide box 621. The rotating Z motor 8341 drives the rotating shaft 8342b to rotate, which in turn drives the two grippers 8342a to rotate. One end of the gripper drive block 8342d is fixed on the gripper drive 8342c, and the other end is sleeved on the rotating shaft 8342b. The two grippers 8342a are driven by the gripper drive block 8342d to perform clamping or releasing actions.

[0097] In this embodiment, a push rod 8342e is also sleeved on the rotating shaft 8342b. The push rod 8342e acts on the upper part of the hook 4122a, allowing the user to open or close the dyeing mechanism 41.

[0098] In this embodiment, the electric gripper 834 further includes a first zero-position sensor 8344 and a first zero-position plate 8345. The first zero-position plate 8345 is sleeved on one end of the rotating shaft 8342b, and the first zero-position sensor 8344 is located on one side of the first zero-position plate 8345. The drive connection assembly 8343 includes a synchronous pulley 8343a, a second zero-position sensor 8343b, and a second zero-position plate 8343c. The second zero-position plate 8343c is located on the Z-axis slider 8352, and the second sensor 8343b is located on one side of the second zero-position plate 8343c. The output end of the rotary Z motor 8341 is connected to the input end of the synchronous pulley 8343a, and the output end of the synchronous pulley 8343a is connected to the rotating shaft 8342b. The rotary Z motor 8341, the first zero-position sensor 8344, and the second zero-position sensor 8343b are all electrically connected to the control device.

[0099] In this embodiment, the ends of the grippers 8342a are provided with mutually perpendicular first grooves 16 and second grooves 17. When the glass slide 1 is clamped, the glass slide 1 is locked between the two first grooves 16 of the two grippers. The coverslip box 621 includes a coverslip box body 6211 and a desiccant box 6212. The two sides of the coverslip box 621 are provided with mutually symmetrically arranged grooves 6213. Each groove 6213 is provided with a pair of mutually symmetrically arranged protrusions 6214. The upper protrusion 6214 is a vertically arranged rectangular block, and the lower protrusion 6214 is a horizontally arranged rectangular block. The vertical rectangular block is locked into the first groove 16, and the horizontal rectangular block is locked into the second groove 17. The side of the desiccant box 6212 is provided with several through holes 6215, and the upper end is provided with a desiccant box cover 6216. When the electric gripper 834 is used to hold the glass slide 1, the glass slide 1 is held between the two first grooves 16 of the two grippers 8342a. When it is used to hold the cover glass box 621, a pair of protrusions 6214 are held in the first groove 16 and the second groove 17 respectively.

[0100] In this embodiment, a barcode scanner 19 is fixedly mounted on the Z-axis slider 8352 via a barcode scanner bracket 18. The barcode scanner 19 is located above the glass slide 1 and is electrically connected to the control device. The barcode scanner 19 can scan and identify QR codes or barcodes.

[0101] In this embodiment, a reflection sensor 20 is provided on the Z-axis slider 8352, located between the two grippers 8342a and above the slide 1. The reflection sensor 20 is electrically connected to the control device. The reflection sensor 20 is used to detect whether there is a slide 1 on the slide holder 121.

[0102] In this embodiment, one end of the X-axis mechanism 81 is provided with a code disk 21 and a code disk optocoupler 22 that cooperate with each other. The Y-axis mechanism 82 is also provided with a Y-axis zero-position optocoupler 25 and a Y-axis zero-position plate (not shown in the figure) that cooperate with each other. The Z-axis mechanism 83 is also provided with a Z-axis zero-position optocoupler 27 and a Z-axis zero-position plate (not shown in the figure) that cooperate with each other. The code disk optocoupler 22, the X-axis zero-position optocoupler 23, the Y-axis zero-position optocoupler 25, and the Z-axis zero-position optocoupler 27 are all electrically connected to the control device. The code disk optocoupler 22 detects whether the X-axis mechanism 81 has lost synchronization, the X-axis zero-position optocoupler 23 is used to detect whether the X-axis mechanism 81 has returned to the zero position, the Y-axis zero-position optocoupler 25 is used to detect whether the Y-axis mechanism 82 has returned to the zero position, and the Z-axis zero-position optocoupler 27 is used to detect whether the Z-axis mechanism 83 has returned to the zero position.

[0103] In this embodiment, the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine can hold one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten reagents; the pair of protrusions can both be square blocks, or the pair of protrusions can both be arc-shaped protrusions. All of these are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0104] In this embodiment, the control device is mainly a circuit board, which can be one or more boards. The control device controls the entire sealing process of the sealing device as a whole and is electrically connected to the live or signal-carrying components in the sealing device, including but not limited to Z motor, rotary R motor, Z-axis motor, heating block assembly, code disk optocoupler, X-axis zero-position optocoupler, Y-axis zero-position optocoupler, Z-axis zero-position optocoupler, etc.

[0105] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine, used for staining and mounting slides containing tissue, characterized in that... The system includes a housing, a frame, a staining device, a mounting device, a sample loading device, a transfer device, and a control device. The staining device, mounting device, sample loading device, and transfer device are all mounted on the frame and electrically connected to the control device. Covered by the housing, the staining device, mounting device, and sample loading device are arranged in separate areas. The transfer device is movable above the staining device, mounting device, and sample loading device. The staining device includes a staining module and a reagent module. The mounting device includes a mounting module and a slide cleaning module. A slide containing tissue is placed in the sample loading device. The transfer device moves the slide containing tissue to the staining module, where it is stained with reagents from the reagent module. The stained slide is then moved to the slide cleaning module via the transfer device, and finally, the stained slide is sealed by the mounting module.

2. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that... The staining module includes multiple independent staining mechanisms and support mechanisms. The staining mechanisms are mounted on the frame via the support mechanisms. The reagent module includes a reagent area and a needle washing mechanism. The reagent area holds at least one reagent for staining, and the needle washing mechanism is used to clean the reagent needles.

3. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that... The staining mechanism includes a flip-top structure and a base structure, which are rotatably connected to each other via a rotating connection structure. The slide is placed on the base structure. The flip-top structure includes a lower cover, an upper cover, and a liquid cover plate. The upper cover is located above the lower cover, and the liquid cover plate is located below the lower cover. The lower surface of the liquid cover plate has a recess. When the flip-top structure and the base structure are assembled, the liquid cover plate covers the slide, forming a cavity between them.

4. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 3, characterized in that... The flip-top structure also includes a waste liquid needle movable component, one end of which moves sequentially through the upper cover, lower cover, and liquid cover plate, and the other end is connected to the waste liquid tank; the base structure includes a base and a hook component and a heating component disposed on the base, one end of which is movably connected to the base, and the other end is used to engage the flip-top structure with the base structure, and the heating component is used to heat the glass slide, with the glass slide placed above the heating component.

5. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 4, characterized in that... The waste liquid needle movable assembly includes a waste liquid needle, a waste liquid needle fixing block, and a waste liquid needle sliding sleeve. The waste liquid needle sliding sleeve is located between the upper cover and the lower cover. The lower end of the waste liquid needle passes through the upper cover, the waste liquid needle sliding sleeve, and the lower cover in sequence, and abuts against the liquid cover plate. The upper end of the waste liquid needle is fixed by the waste liquid needle fixing block.

6. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 5, characterized in that... The flip-top structure includes a liquid cover plate clamping assembly, which includes a pressure column and a pressure column spring. The pressure column spring is located between the upper cover and the lower cover. The pressure column is sleeved inside the pressure column spring. The lower end of the pressure column extends out of the lower surface of the lower cover and abuts against the upper surface of the liquid cover plate.

7. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 6, characterized in that... The base structure also includes a slide clip assembly for fixing the slide by snapping it in place. The slide clip assembly includes a base clip, a spring, and a base slider. The base clip and the base slider are both located on the base, and the spring is located between the base clip and the base slider. All three are located at one end of the slide, and the other end of the slide is provided with a push-in spring. The hook assembly includes a hook, a torsion spring, and a hook pivot. The hook pivot is located on the base, and the hook and the torsion spring are sleeved on the hook pivot. When the flip-top structure and the base structure are pressed together, the hook engages with the lower cover.

8. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 6, characterized in that... The dyeing module also includes a heat dissipation mechanism located below the heating component. The heat dissipation mechanism includes a cooling fan and an air duct. The cooling fan is positioned below the air duct and is interconnected with it. The cooling fan is electrically connected to the control device.

9. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 2, characterized in that... The reagent module also includes a mixing mechanism, which delivers different reagents to the mixing mechanism via a reagent needle for mixing to form a new reagent.

10. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 1, characterized in that... The sealing module includes a fixed base and a coverslip storage mechanism, a coverslip picking and placing mechanism, and a sealing liquid adding mechanism fixed on the fixed base. The fixed base is fixed on the frame.

11. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 10, characterized in that... The coverslip storage mechanism includes a coverslip box containing a certain number of coverslips that moves in the Y direction. The coverslip handling mechanism includes an X-axis moving structure, a Y-axis moving structure, and a Z-axis sealing head structure. The sealing and liquid adding mechanism includes a sealing structure, a UV curing structure, and a UV constant temperature structure. The coverslip box and the sealing structure both move horizontally in the Y direction via the Y-axis moving structure. The UV curing structure is fixed on a base and located above the sealing structure. The Z-axis sealing head structure moves horizontally in the X direction via the X-axis moving structure. The UV constant temperature structure is fixed on a base.

12. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 11, characterized in that... The Z-axis sealing head structure includes a Z motor, a Z base plate, a suction cup assembly, a rotary R motor, a first transmission assembly, and a second transmission assembly. The rotary R motor is fixed on the Z base plate and connected to the suction cup assembly through the first transmission assembly. The Z motor is connected to the Z base plate through the second transmission assembly.

13. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that... The suction cup assembly includes a suction cup, a limiting rod, and a suction cup base. The suction cup is fixed on the suction cup base, and the suction cup base is connected to the first transmission assembly via a first connecting rod. The lower end of the limiting rod is connected to the suction cup base via a rotating shaft, and the upper end is connected to the Z-base plate.

14. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 13, characterized in that... The first transmission assembly includes a rotating block, a second connecting rod, and a support block. The rotating block and the support block are sleeved on the output end of the rotary R motor. One end of the second connecting rod is rotatably connected to the rotating block, and the other end is rotatably connected to the first connecting rod. The second transmission assembly includes a Z-axis lifting bearing, a Z-axis lifting rod, and a Z-axis lifting arm. The Z-axis lifting rod is located on the output end of the Z motor, the Z-axis lifting bearing is located at one end of the Z-axis lifting rod, and the Z-axis lifting arm is connected to the Z-axis lifting bearing.

15. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 11, characterized in that... The UV constant temperature structure includes a UV glue needle, a constant temperature base plate assembly, and a heating block assembly. The UV glue needle is fixed by a glue needle fixing block. The heating block assembly is located outside the UV glue needle, and the constant temperature base plate assembly is located outside the heating block assembly.

16. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 11, characterized in that... The UV curing structure includes a UV lamp, which is fixed to a mounting base by a lampshade.

17. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 11, characterized in that... The sealing module also includes a cover glass moisture-proof cover assembly, which is located above the cover glass box when the cover glass is not in use.

18. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 11, characterized in that... The cover glass module also includes a debris collection component, which includes a debris discarding slide, a debris collection channel, and a collection box. The debris discarding slide is located on one side of the cover glass box and is inclined. The lower end of the debris discarding slide is located above the debris collection channel, and the collection box is located below the debris collection channel.

19. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 1, characterized in that... The slide cleaning module includes a cleaning tank and a drying mechanism.

20. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that... The sample loading device includes at least two sample slide drawers, each sample slide drawer is provided with several slide holders, and each slide holder holds several slides with tissues.

21. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 20, characterized in that... One or more sample slide drawers are equipped with spare cover slide boxes.

22. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine according to claim 11, characterized in that... The coverslip box includes a coverslip box body and a desiccant box. The coverslip box has symmetrically arranged grooves on two sides, and each groove has a pair of symmetrically arranged protrusions. The desiccant box has several through holes on its side and a desiccant box cover at the top.

23. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 22, characterized in that... The upper protrusion of the pair of protrusions is a vertically arranged rectangular block, and the lower protrusion is a horizontally arranged rectangular block, or both protrusions are square blocks, or both protrusions are arc-shaped protrusions.

24. The fully automated immunohistochemical staining and sealing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that... It also includes an online scanning device, which includes a scanner, a slide gripper module, and a scanning storage module. After staining and sealing, the slides are transferred to the scanning storage module through the slide gripper module, and then each slide is scanned and inspected by the scanner to generate an inspection report.

25. The transfer device for a fully automated immunohistochemical staining and mounting machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that... It includes a first arm group, a second arm group, and a third arm group. The first arm group moves above the reagent module and the staining module. The first arm group is used to move to the staining module to add reagents after the reagent module draws the reagent. The second arm group moves above the staining module. The second arm group is used to add system liquid. The third arm group moves above the reagent module, the staining module, and the mounting module. The third arm group is used to clamp and load the slides, realize the movement and flipping of the slides, and has the function of turning the staining module on and off.

26. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 25, characterized in that... The third arm assembly includes an X-axis mechanism, a Y-axis mechanism, and a Z-axis mechanism. The X-axis mechanism is fixed to the frame, the Y-axis mechanism is slidably mounted on the X-axis mechanism and moves in the X direction, the Z-axis mechanism is slidably mounted on the Y-axis mechanism and moves in the Y direction, and the Z-axis mechanism itself moves in the Z direction.

27. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 26, characterized in that... The Z-axis mechanism includes a Z-axis base plate, a Z-axis motor, a lead screw assembly, and an electric gripper. The output end of the Z-axis motor is connected to the lead screw assembly, and the electric gripper is connected to the lead screw assembly through a slider assembly. The slider assembly includes a Z-axis guide rail and a Z-axis slider. The Z-axis guide rail is fixed to the Z-axis base plate, and the Z-axis slider is slidably mounted on the Z-axis guide rail.

28. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 27, characterized in that... The electric gripper includes a rotary Z-motor mounted on the Z-axis slider, a gripper assembly, and a drive connection assembly. The gripper assembly includes two symmetrically arranged grippers, a rotary shaft fixed on the Z-axis slider, and a gripper drive. The two grippers are sleeved on the rotary shaft, and each gripper is equipped with a gripper drive block, which is also sleeved on the rotary shaft. The lower end of the gripper drive is connected to the rotary shaft, and the upper end is electrically connected to the control device.

29. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 28, characterized in that... A push rod is also fitted onto the rotating shaft.

30. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 29, characterized in that... The electric gripper also includes a first zero-position sensor and a first zero-position plate. The first zero-position plate is sleeved on one end of the rotating shaft, and the first zero-position sensor is located on one side of the first zero-position plate. The drive connection assembly includes a synchronous pulley, a second zero-position sensor, and a second zero-position plate. The second zero-position plate is located on the Z-axis slider, and the second sensor is located on one side of the second zero-position plate. The output end of the Z-axis rotating motor is connected to the input end of the synchronous pulley, and the output end of the synchronous pulley is connected to the rotating shaft. The Z-axis rotating motor, the first zero-position sensor, and the second zero-position sensor are all electrically connected to the control device.

31. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 28, characterized in that... The ends of the grippers are provided with a first groove and a second groove that are perpendicular to each other. When a glass slide is clamped, the glass slide is stuck between the two first grooves of the two grippers.

32. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 27, characterized in that... A barcode scanner is fixedly mounted on the Z-axis slider via a barcode scanner bracket. The barcode scanner is located above the glass slide and is electrically connected to the control device.

33. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 32, characterized in that... The Z-axis slider is equipped with a reflection sensor, located between the two grippers and above the glass slide. The reflection sensor is electrically connected to the control device.

34. The transfer device of the fully automated immunohistochemistry staining and sealing machine according to claim 25, characterized in that... The X-axis mechanism is equipped with a code disk and a code disk optocoupler that work together at one end. The Y-axis mechanism is also equipped with a Y-axis zero-position optocoupler and a Y-axis zero-position plate that work together. The Z-axis mechanism is also equipped with a Z-axis zero-position optocoupler and a Z-axis zero-position plate that work together. The code disk optocoupler, X-axis zero-position optocoupler, Y-axis zero-position optocoupler, and Z-axis zero-position optocoupler are all electrically connected to the control device.