Converter device for slice transfer

Abstract

The utility model provides a converter device for transferring slices in a slice box storage basket of a dyeing machine to a slice box for a scanner, and the arrangement mode of the slices in the slice box storage basket of the dyeing machine is different from that of the slices in the slice box for the scanner. The converter device is provided with a moving assembly for driving the slice mounting assembly to move. The slice mounting assemblies are sequentially and alternately provided with at least one first-class slice mounting assembly sequentially comprising a plurality of first supporting plates and a second supporting plate and at least one second-class slice mounting assembly sequentially comprising a third supporting plate and a plurality of fourth supporting plates, the second supporting plates and the third supporting plates are adjacent to each other, and the second-class slice mounting assemblies and the third-class slice mounting assemblies are arranged in a staggered mode through movement of the moving assembly. The second supporting plate and the third supporting plate can be combined into one supporting plate, so that the slice mounting assembly corresponds to the arrangement mode of slices in a slice box storage basket of a dyeing machine, the second supporting plate and the third supporting plate can be separated into independent supporting plates, and the slice mounting assembly corresponds to the arrangement mode of the slices in a slice box for a scanner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a converter device, and more particularly to a converter device for transferring slices from a staining machine slice tray storage basket to a scanner slice tray. Background Technology

[0002] Pathological slide scanning technology is an important medical imaging technique. It converts the tissue structures on pathological slides into digital images, facilitating remote consultations, teaching, research, and case management for doctors. Before being placed into the pathological slide scanner, the slides need to be stained. After staining, the slides are transferred from the staining machine to the scanner. The slide cassettes used in staining machines generally differ in design and specifications from those used in scanners. Figure 1 , 2 As shown, a slide box storage basket can hold, for example, 20 slides, and the longitudinal dimension of the mounting slot for each slide is small; while a scanner slide box has, for example, 3 sets of 10 mounting slots in each set, and the longitudinal dimension of the mounting slot for each slide is large. There is a certain interval between the mounting slots in different sets, and usually two scanner slide boxes are used together in one storage compartment. Utility Model Content

[0003] Technical problem to be solved by the utility model

[0004] Due to the different designs and specifications of slide holders and scanner slide holders, manual transfer of slides one by one is necessary in actual operation. This is especially true for high-throughput scanners that handle a large number of slides (e.g., 360 slides). Manually transferring slides one by one is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive, but also carries the risk of damaging the slides due to human error. Furthermore, positional shifts may occur during slide transfer, making it impossible to guarantee the accuracy of slide placement.

[0005] Technical means for solving problems

[0006] To address the time-consuming and labor-intensive process of loading slides into pathology slide scanners, the inventors devised a converter device for slide transfer. This converter loads the slide cassette from the staining machine into the scanner's slide cassette. By precisely aligning the slide cassette with the converter, the slides are transferred to the converter; then, the scanner's slide cassette is precisely aligned with the converter, transferring the slides to the scanner's slide cassette. This ensures accurate slide placement, enabling batch transfer of slides, improving efficiency, saving time and effort, reducing the workload of medical staff, and decreasing the probability of human error affecting slide quality and integrity.

[0007] This invention is based on the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a converter device that can be used for batch transfer of slices between staining machine slice box storage baskets and scanner slice boxes of different specifications.

[0008] One aspect of this utility model provides a converter device for transferring slices from a staining machine slice tray storage basket to a scanner slice tray, wherein the slices in the staining machine slice tray and the scanner slice tray are arranged differently.

[0009] The converter device includes:

[0010] case;

[0011] A slice mounting assembly, housed within the housing, for slice mounting during transfer; and

[0012] The moving component drives the slice mounting component to move in a predetermined direction.

[0013] The slice mounting assembly is provided with at least one first-type slice mounting assembly and at least one second-type slice mounting assembly alternately in sequence.

[0014] The first type of slice mounting assembly sequentially includes multiple first trays and one second tray.

[0015] The second type of slice mounting assembly sequentially includes a third tray and multiple fourth trays.

[0016] The second tray and the third tray are adjacent to each other.

[0017] By moving the movable component, the second tray and the third tray can be combined into a single tray, thereby aligning the slice mounting assembly with the slice arrangement in the staining machine slice box storage basket.

[0018] Furthermore, by moving the moving component, the second tray and the third tray can be separated into independent trays, thereby the slice mounting component corresponds to the slice arrangement in the scanner slice cassette.

[0019] Effects of the utility model

[0020] The converter device according to this utility model is suitable for efficient batch transfer of slides between staining machine slide box storage baskets and scanner slide boxes of different specifications, and ensures the accuracy of slide position and the quality and integrity of slides. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the slice box storage basket for the staining machine.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing a cassette for a scanner.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall converter device.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the retracted state of the slice-mounted assembly of the converter device.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the transfer of slices between the staining machine's slice box storage basket and the converter device.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the unfolded state of the slice-mounted assembly of the converter device.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transfer of slices between the converter device and the scanner's slice cassette.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transfer of slices between the converter device and the scanner's slice cassette.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the unfolded state of the slice-mounted assembly.

[0030] Figure 10 (a) is a schematic diagram showing the first tray. Figure 10 (b) is a schematic diagram showing the fourth tray.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the side clamps and the top clamp.

[0032] Figure 12 (a) is a schematic diagram showing the second tray. Figure 12 (b) is a schematic diagram showing the third tray.

[0033] Figure 13 (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing the combination of the second and third trays.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the retracted state of the slice mounting assembly.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram showing the ladder frame of the telescopic structure of the moving component in its retracted initial state.

[0036] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the ladder frame of the telescopic structure of the moving component in its unfolded termination form.

[0037] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing the telescopic ladder frame in its unfolded, terminated state.

[0038] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the ladder frame of the telescopic structure in its retracted initial state.

[0039] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the lever of the moving component.

[0040] Figure 20 (a) is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the pusher claw of the lever. Figure 20 (b) is a schematic diagram showing how the lever is pushed.

[0041] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram showing the second track of the moving component.

[0042] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram showing the interior panel of the converter device.

[0043] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram showing the interior panel of the converter device.

[0044] Symbol Explanation

[0045] 100…Converter device; 200…Staining machine slide box storage basket; 300…Scanner slide box; 1…Housing; 2…Slide mounting assembly; 3…Moving assembly; 4…Side clamp; 5…Upper clamp; 6…Interior panel; 21…First type slide mounting assembly; 22…Second type slide mounting assembly; 23…First tray; 24…Second tray; 25…Third tray; 26…Fourth tray; g1…First interval; g2…Second interval; g3…Third interval; 231…First base plate; 232…First side; 233…First support strip; 234…First opening; 241…Second base plate; 2411…Hollowed portion; 242…Second side; 2421…Thinned portion; 243… …Second support strip; 244…Second opening; 251…Third base plate; 252…Third side; 253…Third support strip; 254…Third opening; 261…Fourth base plate; 262…Fourth side; 263…Fourth support strip; 264…Fourth opening; 27…Threaded hole; 31…Lever; 311…Push claw; 3111…First push claw; 3112…Second push claw; 32…Telescopic structure; 321…Ladder; 322…Pin; 33…Roller; 34…Pulley; 35…First track; 36…Positioning block; 361…First positioning block; 362…Second positioning block; 37…Second track; 38…Slider; 39…Handle; A…First structure; B…Second structure. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The converter device according to this utility model will be described in detail below 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.

[0047] This utility model provides a converter device 100 (see reference). Figure 3 This is a storage basket 200 for storing the staining machine slice box (see reference). Figure 1 Transfer the slices from the slide to the scanner using a slide cassette 300 (see reference). Figure 2 The converter device 100. Wherein, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the arrangement of slices in the staining machine slice tray storage basket 200 is different from that in the scanner slice tray 300.

[0048] Figure 1 Here is an example of a storage basket for a staining machine slice box. Figure 1 The staining machine slide tray storage basket 200 shown contains slides. The basket 200 can be lifted using hooks or similar means and placed into the staining machine for slide staining. The staining machine slide tray storage basket 200 has multiple mounting slots for inserting slides, allowing slides to be inserted from the slide tray... Figure 1 The open end of the right-side opening is inserted into the staining machine slide box storage basket 200. The staining machine slide box storage basket 200 can hold b slides, and the b slides can be divided into m groups (in... Figure 1 In this case, b = 20, m = 2 (meaning 10 slices form one group, for a total of 2 groups). Furthermore, each mounting slot in the staining machine slice box storage basket 200 is relatively small, and each slice is arranged at a first interval g1.

[0049] Figure 2 Here is an example of a cassette for a scanner. Figure 2 The scanner slide cassette 300 shown feeds stained slides into the scanner for scanning. The scanner slide cassette 300 also has multiple mounting slots for inserting slides, from which slides are inserted. Figure 1 The right-side opening is inserted into the scanner slide cassette 300. The scanner slide cassette 300 can hold n sets of slides, each set containing a slides (in... Figure 2 In this configuration, a = 10, n = 3 (meaning 10 slices form one group, with a total of 3 groups). Furthermore, each mounting slot in the scanner slide cassette 300 is relatively large, and each slice in each group is arranged with a second interval g2. There is a certain interval between different groups of mounting slots, and each group of slices in different groups is arranged with a third interval g3. Two scanner slide cassettes 300 can be combined and used within a single storage compartment (not shown).

[0050] In the aforementioned staining machine slide holder 200 and scanner slide holder 300, at least one of b = m*a, m, and n is an even number. The first interval g1, the second interval g2, and the third interval g3 are all different from each other.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the converter device 100 includes: a housing 1; and a slice mounting assembly 2, which is housed in the housing 1 for slice mounting during transfer (in... Figure 3 In the middle, there are 6 sets of slice mounting components 2; and a moving component 3, which drives the slice mounting components 2 to move in a specified direction (i.e., the X direction) so that the slice mounting components 2 can change shape.

[0052] like Figure 4 As shown, by moving the moving component 3, the slice mounting component 2 is brought to a retracted state. The slice mounting component 2 corresponds to the slice arrangement in the dyeing machine slice box storage basket 200. That is, in this configuration, every two sets of slice mounting components 2 are combined to form a first structure A comprising 20 mounting slots (the number of mounting slots can be changed according to actual conditions). The size and positional relationship of these 20 mounting slots are adapted to the size and positional relationship of the 20 mounting slots in the slice box storage basket 200. Continuing as... Figure 4 As shown, the entire converter device 100 forms a total of 3 sets of the aforementioned first structure A, as follows: Figure 5 As shown, in this configuration, the slice box storage basket 200 can be aligned with the first structure A to achieve batch transfer of slices. Specifically, three slice box storage baskets 200 can be prepared and aligned with three sets of the first structure A respectively, and the slices in the three slice box storage baskets 200 can be loaded into the converter device 100 at one time.

[0053] like Figure 6 As shown, by moving the moving component 3, the slice mounting component 2 is in an unfolded state. The slice mounting component 2 corresponds to the slice arrangement in the scanner slice cassette 300. That is, in this configuration, every three sets of slice mounting components 2 are combined to form a second structure B comprising 30 mounting slots. The size and positional relationship of these 30 mounting slots are adapted to the size and positional relationship of the 30 mounting slots in the scanner slice cassette 300. Continuing as... Figure 6 As shown, the entire converter device 100 forms two sets of the aforementioned second structure B, as follows: Figure 7 , 8 As shown, in this configuration, the scanner slide cassette 300 can be aligned with the second structure B to achieve batch transfer of slides. Specifically, the two sets of the second structure B of the converter device 100 can be aligned with the two scanner slide cassettes 300 respectively, and the slides in the two sets of the second structure B can be loaded into the scanner slide cassette 300 at once.

[0054] like Figure 9As shown, the slice mounting assembly 2 of this utility model can be divided into two types: a first type of slice mounting assembly 21 and a second type of slice mounting assembly 22. In the converter device 100, at least one first type of slice mounting assembly 21 and at least one second type of slice mounting assembly 22 are alternately arranged in sequence.

[0055] The slice mounting assembly 2 includes m*n / 2 pairs of alternately arranged first-type slice mounting assemblies 21 and second-type slice mounting assemblies 22, each capable of accommodating *a* slices. In the retracted state, the slice mounting assembly 2 is shifted to accommodate multiple sets of *b* slices corresponding to the staining machine slice cassette storage basket 200. In the unfolded state, a pair of first-type slice mounting assemblies 21 and second-type slice mounting assemblies 22 can accommodate two sets of *n* sets of slices corresponding to the scanner slice cassette 300. In this embodiment, b = 20, m = 2, a = 10, n = 3. That is, as shown... Figure 9 As shown, each type of slice mounting assembly 2 can be provided in 3 units (the number can be changed according to actual conditions). The first type of slice mounting assembly 21 includes 10 first trays 23 arranged in sequence and a second tray 24 located at the rear end. The second type of slice mounting assembly 22 includes a third tray 25 located at the front end and 10 fourth trays 26 arranged in sequence. The second tray 24 and the third tray 25 are adjacent to each other. Each of the 11 trays of the 10 first trays 23 and 1 second tray 24 of the first type of slice mounting assembly 21 has 10 mounting slots between each pair of trays facing a first side (i.e., the -X direction). Each of the 11 trays of the 1 third tray 25 and 10 fourth trays 26 of the second type of slice mounting assembly 22 has 10 mounting slots between each pair of trays facing a second side (i.e., the +X direction) opposite to the first side (i.e., the -X direction).

[0056] Continue as Figure 9 As shown, when the slicing mounting assembly 2 is in the unfolded state, and every three sets of slicing mounting assemblies 2 form a second structure B, each set of slicing mounting assemblies 2 consists of 11 trays forming 10 mounting slots between each pair. However, when the slicing mounting assembly 2 is in the retracted state, and every two sets of slicing mounting assemblies 2 form a first structure A, each set of slicing mounting assemblies 2 still consists of 11 trays. If two sets of slicing mounting assemblies 2 are simply retracted and combined, 22 trays would form 21 mounting slots between each pair, which does not correspond to the number of mounting slots in the slicing box storage basket 200. Therefore, the inventors designed a special tray structure. By moving the moving component 3, the second tray 24 and the third tray 25 can be merged into one tray, thus realizing the retraction of two sets of slicing mounting assemblies 2 into a structure with 20 mounting slots, which will be described below.

[0057] like Figure 10 As shown in (a), the first tray 23 includes a first base plate 231 and two first side edges 232 located on both sides of the first base plate 231. One end of the first base plate 231 has an open first opening 234, and two first support strips 233 extending from the first base plate 231 are located on both sides of the first opening 234. The first side edges 232 are slightly higher than one side of the first base plate 231. The first base plate 231, the first side edges 232, and the first support strips 233 form a mounting groove for mounting slices. During installation, ten first trays 23 are arranged sequentially in the same manner so that mounting grooves can be formed between adjacent first trays 23 in both retracted and expanded states. Furthermore, a space is left between the first support strips 233 and the first side edges 232 for... Figure 11 The side clamp 4 is shown to pass through a gap. The main function of the first opening 234 is to ensure that when the slice is inserted, only the two edges of the slice contact the first support strip 233, reducing slice wear. Without the opening, the entire surface of the slice would be subjected to friction, which could damage the slice and affect the scanning quality. The first opening 234 also allows for... Figure 11 The upper clamping plate 5 shown passes through. (As indicated) Figure 11 As shown, the converter device 100 also includes an upper clamping plate 5 and two side clamping plates 4. The upper clamping plate 5 and the two side clamping plates 4 can be used to limit the movement of the slice.

[0058] In addition, a threaded hole 27 for connecting to the movable component 3 is provided on the first side 232.

[0059] The fourth support plate 26 has a basically the same structure as the first support plate 23, except that the position of the threaded hole 27 is different.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figure 10 As shown in (b), the fourth tray 26 includes a fourth base plate 261 and two fourth side edges 262 located on both sides of the fourth base plate 261. One end of the fourth base plate 261 has an open fourth opening 264, and two fourth support strips 263 extending from the fourth base plate 261 are located on both sides of the fourth opening 264. The fourth side edges 262 are slightly higher than one side of the fourth base plate 261. The fourth base plate 261, fourth side edges 262, and fourth support strips 263 form a mounting groove for mounting the slices. During installation, ten fourth trays 26 are arranged sequentially in the same manner so that mounting grooves can be formed between adjacent fourth trays 26 in both retracted and expanded states. Furthermore, a space is left between the fourth support strips 263 and the fourth side edges 262 for... Figure 11The side clamp 4 is shown to pass through a gap. The main function of the fourth opening 264 is to ensure that when the slice is inserted, only the two edges of the slice contact the fourth support strip 263, reducing slice wear. Without the opening, the entire surface of the slice would be subjected to friction, which could damage the slice and affect the scanning quality. Furthermore, the fourth opening 264 allows for... Figure 11 The upper clamp 5 shown passes through.

[0061] like Figure 12 As shown in (a), the second support plate 24 differs structurally from the first support plate 23. The second support plate 24 also includes a second base plate 241, two second side edges 242, an open second opening 244, and two second support strips 243. A gap is also provided between the second support strips 243 and the second side edges 242 for the side clamping plate 4 to pass through. The second side edges 242 also have threaded holes 27 for connection with the moving assembly 3. The difference is that the second base plate 241 has a hollowed-out portion 2411, and the second side edges 242 have a thinned portion 2421. The second support strips 243 also have a section removed corresponding to the thinned portion 2421; that is, the second support strips 243 are shortened from one end of the second side edge 242 by the amount of the thinned portion 2421. These designs are intended to allow it to be combined with the third support plate 25 to form a single plate.

[0062] like Figure 12 As shown in (b), the third support plate 25 includes a third base plate 251, two third side edges 252, a third opening 254, and two third support strips 253. The third base plate 251 is formed in a manner corresponding to the cutout portion 2411. The portions of the third side edges 252, except for the portions corresponding to the thinned portions 2421 and the portions on which the third base plate 251 is formed, are thinned. The third support strips 253 extend from one end of the third side edge 252 toward the third base plate 251 by the length of the thinned portions 2421.

[0063] In the contracted state, the second support plate 24 and the third support plate 25 are combined together, as follows: Figure 13 As shown in (a) and (b), the third base plate 251 is precisely embedded in the hollow portion 2411 of the second base plate 241, the third side 252 precisely fills the thinned portion 2421 of the second side 242 (i.e., the third side 252 is in contact with the second side 242), and the third support strip 253 precisely fills the section removed from the second support strip 243 (i.e., the third support strip 253 is connected to the second support strip 243), thereby merging the second support plate 24 and the third support plate 25 into a single support plate.

[0064] like Figure 14As shown, after synthesis, one side of the structure forms an installation groove between itself and the adjacent first tray 23, and the other side forms an installation groove between itself and the adjacent fourth tray 26, thereby changing 22 trays and 21 installation grooves into 21 trays and 20 installation grooves, which corresponds to the number of installation grooves in the slice box storage basket.

[0065] The moving component 3 drives the slice mounting component 2 to change its shape between a retracted state and an expanded state. In the retracted state, the slice mounting component 2 is configured such that adjacent second trays 24 and third trays 25 are interlocked into a single tray. Furthermore, all slices in the first type of slice mounting component 21 and the second type of slice mounting component 22, which are grouped together, are arranged at a first interval g1. Thus, the slice mounting component 2 corresponds to the slice arrangement in the staining machine slice cassette storage basket 200. In the expanded state, the slice mounting component 2 is configured such that adjacent second trays 24 and third trays 25 are each independent trays. Furthermore, the slices in each of the first type of slice mounting component 21 and the second type of slice mounting component 22, which are grouped together, are arranged at a second interval g2, and adjacent first trays 23 and fourth trays 26, as well as adjacent second trays 24 and third trays 25, in the first type of slice mounting component 21 and the second type of slice mounting component 22, are arranged at a third interval g3. Thus, the slice mounting component 2 corresponds to the slice arrangement in the scanner slice cassette 300.

[0066] In the embodiments of this utility model, in order to adapt Figure 1 , 2 The slide box storage basket 200 and scanner slide box 300 shown are designed with 6 sets of slide mounting components 2, in which the first type of slide mounting component 21 and the second type of slide mounting component 22 are designed alternately. However, it should be noted that simple modifications made according to this utility model should also be within the scope of protection. For example, the frontmost support plate of the first type of slide mounting component 21 can be changed to a third support plate 25, and the rearmost support plate of the second type of slide mounting component 22 can be changed to a second support plate 24. In this way, when retracted, any two adjacent sets of slide mounting components 2 can be retracted into one set to adapt to different slide box storage baskets 200. For example, 3 sets of slide mounting components 2 can be retracted into 31 support plates and 30 mounting slots, or 4 sets of slide mounting components 2 can be retracted into 41 support plates and 40 mounting slots, etc. In the unfolded state, it is not limited to 3 sets of slide mounting components 2 as a set; it can also be 4 sets, 6 sets, etc. The number of trays included in each set of slice mounting components 2 can also be changed according to requirements, such as 5 trays (forming 4 mounting slots), 9 trays (forming 8 mounting slots), 13 trays (forming 12 mounting slots) per set; the total number of slice mounting components 2 included in the converter device can also be changed according to requirements, such as being designed to include 8 sets, 10 sets, 12 sets of slice mounting components 2, etc.

[0067] As mentioned above, the transformation of the slice mounting component 2 is achieved by the movement component 3. The structure of the movement component 3 will be described in detail below.

[0068] like Figure 15 , 16 As shown, the moving component 3 includes a lever 31, a telescopic structure 32, a roller 33 mounted on the telescopic structure 32, a pulley 34, a first track 35 mounted on the housing 1, and a positioning block 36 mounted on the moving path of the roller 33. The lever 31 has a pusher 311 for pushing the roller 33. The roller 33 moves along the first track 35 with the pulley 34 and stops at the position of the positioning block 36.

[0069] In this embodiment of the invention, a telescopic structure 32 is installed on each group of slice mounting components 2. For example... Figure 17 , 18 As shown, each telescopic structure 32 includes a central ladder-like structure (or other elastic structure, such as a spring) and two rollers 33 at both ends, each roller 33 having two pulleys 34. The central ladder-like structure includes multiple linked ladder frames 321, which can move as the rollers 33 move. Figure 15 The contraction initiation pattern shown and as Figure 16 The shown unfolding termination forms achieve contraction and unfolding. Each set of ladders 321 is connected to a set of first-type slice mounting components 21 or second-type slice mounting components 22 in the slice mounting assembly 2.

[0070] The ladder frame 321 can be connected to the threaded hole 27 of the support plate on the slice mounting assembly 2 via the pin 322. Thus, when the roller 33 moves, it drives the ladder frame 321, which in turn drives the support plate, achieving the retraction and expansion of the slice mounting assembly 2. When the ladder frame 321 is in the retraction initial state, the intervals within the ladder frame 321 become the first interval g1. When the ladder frame 321 is in the expansion final state, the intervals within the ladder frame 321 become the second interval g2.

[0071] Continue as Figure 15 , 16 As shown, corresponding to the retracted and expanded states of the slice mounting assembly 2, a pair of positioning blocks 36 are provided on both sides of each roller 33. One positioning block 36 corresponds to the positioning position of the roller 33 in the retracted state, and the other positioning block 36 corresponds to the positioning position of the roller 33 in the expanded state. That is, the pair of positioning blocks 36 includes a first positioning block 361 that restricts the movement of the roller 33 to the retraction initiation position, which makes the ladder frame 321 become the retraction initiation form, and / or a second positioning block 362 that restricts the movement of the roller 33 to the expansion termination position, which makes the ladder frame 321 become the expansion termination form.

[0072] Preferably, the roller 33 is made of metal, and the positioning block 36 is made of a magnetic material. The roller 33 and the positioning block 36 are positioned by magnetic attraction. In this way, when the roller 33 moves to the position of the positioning block 36, it can be attracted and stop moving, thus achieving stable positioning.

[0073] Alternatively, in addition to the positioning block, other stable limiting methods can be used, such as a latch (not shown) at the contact point between the lever 31 and the housing 1, which can restrict the lever 31 from moving to the unfolding termination position that causes the ladder frame 321 to reach the unfolding termination form. Furthermore, the limiting method can also be a lock, etc.

[0074] In addition, such as Figure 15 , 16 As shown, preferably, to avoid interference between the movements of two adjacent moving components 3, two sets of moving components 3 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction (i.e., the X direction) (i.e., the Y direction). The two sets of moving components 3 are respectively equipped with a first type of slice mounting component 21 and a second type of slice mounting component 22. In other words, the converter device 100 of this utility model is divided into inner and outer sets, each with a first track 35. Multiple telescopic structures 32 are alternately arranged on these two sets of first tracks 35. The positioning block 36 is set corresponding to the contraction start position and the expansion end position of the telescopic structure 32, so that adjacent moving components 3 will not interfere with each other.

[0075] like Figure 19 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of the lever 31. Figure 20 As shown in (a), the lever 31 can be equipped with pushers 311 that conform to the rollers 33. Two pushers 311 are provided on both sides of each roller 33. One pusher 311 pushes the roller 33 in the retraction direction, and the other pusher 311 pushes the roller 33 in the unfolding direction. That is, the pushers 311 include a first pusher 3111 that pushes the roller 33 towards the ladder frame 321 to its retraction initiation state, and a second pusher 3112 that pushes the roller 33 towards the ladder frame 321 to its unfolding termination state. The first pusher 3111 and the second pusher 3112 are respectively located on both sides of the roller 33. The first pusher 3111 and the second pusher 3112 face each other.

[0076] To avoid interference between the pusher 311 and the positioning block 36, the pusher 311 and the positioning block 36 are designed to be staggered. Specifically, as follows: Figure 20 As shown in (b), the pusher 311 moves above the positioning block 36.

[0077] To facilitate the movement of lever 31, such as Figure 21As shown, a second track 37 can be provided on the housing 1, and a slider 38 can be provided on the lever 31. The slider 38 can move within the second track 37. Figure 3 As shown, a handle 39 for connecting lever 31 can also be provided on the outside of housing 1. The lever 31 can be easily pulled by the handle 39 to move the moving component 3.

[0078] like Figure 22-23 As shown, an interior panel 6 can be installed on the housing 1. The interior panel 6 is positioned below the slice mounting assembly 2 and provides an opening for the telescopic structure 32, covering the space except for the movement space of the telescopic structure 32. By covering other components, the appearance is improved and protection is provided.

[0079] According to the above embodiments of this utility model, this utility model designs and manufactures a converter device capable of batch transferring slides between staining machine slide trays and scanner slide trays of different specifications. It ensures the accuracy of slide positioning, enables batch transfer of slides, improves efficiency, saves time and effort, reduces the workload of medical staff, and lowers the probability of human error affecting slide quality and integrity.

[0080] Furthermore, the structure of this invention can be finely adjusted to be used for slicing transfer in other slicing box storage baskets, slicing boxes, etc.

[0081] It should be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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 utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0082] 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.

[0083] Those skilled in the art should understand that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer" used in the embodiments of this utility model to indicate orientation or positional relationship are based on the actual usage state of the converter device. These terms are only for the convenience of describing and understanding the technical solution of this utility model, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or device 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 this utility model.

[0084] Therefore, those skilled in the art should recognize that although many 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 present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be understood and recognized as covering all such other variations or modifications.

[0085] As can be understood from the description of the above embodiments, this specification includes disclosures in the following manner.

[0086] [Postscript 1]

[0087] A converter device is disclosed for transferring slides from a staining machine slide cassette storage basket to a scanner slide cassette, wherein the slides in the staining machine slide cassette storage basket and the scanner slide cassette are arranged differently.

[0088] The converter device includes:

[0089] case;

[0090] A slice mounting assembly, housed within the housing, for slice mounting during transfer; and

[0091] The moving component drives the slice mounting component to move in a predetermined direction.

[0092] The slice mounting assembly is provided with at least one first-type slice mounting assembly and at least one second-type slice mounting assembly alternately in sequence.

[0093] The first type of slice mounting assembly sequentially includes multiple first trays and one second tray.

[0094] The second type of slice mounting assembly sequentially includes a third tray and multiple fourth trays.

[0095] The second tray and the third tray are adjacent to each other.

[0096] By moving the movable component, the second tray and the third tray can be combined into a single tray, thereby aligning the slice mounting assembly with the slice arrangement in the staining machine slice box storage basket.

[0097] Furthermore, by moving the moving component, the second tray and the third tray can be separated into independent trays, thereby the slice mounting component corresponds to the slice arrangement in the scanner slice cassette.

[0098] [Postscript 2]

[0099] According to the converter device described in Appendix 1, wherein,

[0100] Each slice in the staining machine's slice tray is arranged at a first interval. The scanner's slice tray divides the slices into multiple groups, with each slice in each group arranged at a second interval, and each group of slices in different groups arranged at a third interval. The first interval, the second interval, and the third interval are different from each other.

[0101] The moving component causes the slice mounting component to change shape between a contracted state and an expanded state.

[0102] In the retracted state, the slice mounting assembly is configured such that adjacent second and third trays engage with each other in a manner that merges them into a single tray, and all slices in the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly are arranged at the first interval.

[0103] In the unfolded state, the slice mounting assembly is configured such that adjacent second and third trays are independent trays, and the slices in each of the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly are arranged at the second interval, and adjacent first and fourth trays, as well as adjacent second and third trays in the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly are arranged at the third interval.

[0104] [Postscript 3]

[0105] According to the converter device described in Appendix 2, wherein,

[0106] The scanner's slide cassette can hold n groups of slides, each group containing a slides. The staining machine's slide cassette storage basket can hold b slides, which are divided into m groups, where b = m * a, and at least one of m and n is an even number.

[0107] The slice mounting assembly includes m*n / 2 pairs of alternately arranged first-type slice mounting assemblies and second-type slice mounting assemblies, each capable of accommodating a slices.

[0108] In the retracted state, the slice mounting assembly is repositioned to accommodate multiple sets of slices corresponding to the b slices in the staining machine slice box storage basket.

[0109] In the unfolded state, a pair of the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly in the slice mounting assembly can accommodate two sets of the n sets of slices corresponding to the scanner slice cassette.

[0110] [Postscript 4]

[0111] The converter device according to any one of Appendices 1-3, wherein,

[0112] The first tray, the second tray, the third tray, and the fourth tray each have a base plate, side edges located on both sides of the base plate, and support strips that are parallel to the side edges and coplanar with the base plate, spaced apart from the side edges.

[0113] The base plate, the side edges, and the support strips form a mounting groove for mounting the slices.

[0114] Each of the plurality of first trays and one of the second trays, which are part of the first type of slice mounting assembly, has a plurality of mounting slots facing the first side between each pair of trays.

[0115] As part of the second type of slice mounting assembly, each of the third tray and the plurality of fourth trays has a plurality of mounting slots between each pair of the third tray and the fourth tray, which are oriented toward a second side opposite to the first side.

[0116] [Postscript 5]

[0117] According to the converter device described in Appendix 4, wherein...

[0118] The bottom plate of the second tray has a hollowed-out portion.

[0119] The second tray has a thinned portion on its side.

[0120] The amount by which the support strip of the second pallet shortens the length of the thinned portion from one end of the side of the second pallet.

[0121] The base plate of the third support plate is formed in a manner corresponding to the hollowed-out portion.

[0122] The portion of the side of the third tray, except for the portion corresponding to the thinned portion and the portion of the base plate on which the third tray is formed, is thinned.

[0123] The amount by which the support strip of the third tray extends the length of the thinned portion from one end of the side of the third tray toward the bottom plate of the third tray.

[0124] When the second tray and the third tray are combined into a single tray, the second tray and the third tray are engaged with each other by the bottom plate of the third tray being embedded in the hollow portion, the side of the third tray being attached to the side of the second tray, and the support strip of the third tray being connected to the support strip of the second tray.

[0125] [Postscript 6]

[0126] According to the converter device described in Appendix 2 or 3, wherein,

[0127] The moving component includes:

[0128] The telescopic structure includes multiple telescopic ladders and rollers with pulleys on both sides of the ladders. Each ladder is connected to a set of the first type of slice mounting assembly or the second type of slice mounting assembly in the slice mounting assembly. The ladders are telescopic between a retracted starting state and an expanded ending state.

[0129] A first track, disposed on the housing, guides the pulley of the roller to slide; and

[0130] A lever having a pusher for actuating the roller.

[0131] [Postscript 7]

[0132] According to the converter device described in Appendix 6, wherein...

[0133] When the ladder frame is in the retracted initial state, the intervals in the ladder frame become the first interval.

[0134] When the moving component drives the slice mounting component to the unfolded state, the ladder is in the unfolded termination state, and the interval in the ladder becomes the second interval.

[0135] [Postscript 8]

[0136] According to the converter device described in Appendix 6, wherein...

[0137] The movable components are arranged in two groups in a direction perpendicular to the specified direction, and the two groups of movable components are respectively equipped with the first type of slice mounting component and the second type of slice mounting component.

[0138] [Postscript 9]

[0139] According to the converter device described in Appendix 6, wherein...

[0140] The moving component also includes:

[0141] The positioning block includes a first positioning block that restricts the movement of the roller to a shrink-initiation position that causes the ladder frame to be in the shrink-initiation configuration, and / or a second positioning block that restricts the movement of the roller to an unfold-out position that causes the ladder frame to be in the unfold-out termination configuration.

[0142] The roller and the positioning block are positioned by magnetic attraction.

[0143] [Postscript 10]

[0144] According to the converter device described in Appendix 9, wherein...

[0145] The pusher claw includes a first pusher claw that pushes the roller toward the ladder frame to form the retracted starting shape, and / or a second pusher claw that pushes the roller toward the ladder frame to form the unfolded ending shape.

[0146] The first pusher and the second pusher are respectively disposed on both sides of the roller.

[0147] The first pusher and the second pusher are oriented opposite each other.

[0148] The pusher is configured to move above the positioning block.

[0149] [Postscript 11]

[0150] According to the converter device described in Appendix 6, wherein...

[0151] The moving component also includes:

[0152] A latch, which is provided on the housing, restricts the movement of the lever to the unfolding termination position that causes the ladder frame to reach the unfolding termination form.

[0153] [Postscript 12]

[0154] According to the converter device described in Appendix 6, wherein...

[0155] The moving component also includes:

[0156] A second track is provided on the housing, and a slider connected to the lever is embedded therein.

[0157] [Postscript 13]

[0158] According to the converter device described in Appendix 6, wherein...

[0159] The lever also has a handle, which is located on the outside of the housing.

[0160] The movable component is moved by pulling the handle.

Claims

1. A converter device for transferring a slice in a dyeing machine slice cassette receiving basket to a scanner slice cassette, wherein, The slice arrangement in the slice cassette receiving basket of the staining machine is different from the slice arrangement in the slice cassette for the scanner, The converter device is provided with: a housing; a slice mounting assembly accommodated in the housing for mounting the slices in transition; and a moving assembly for moving the slice mounting assembly in a specified direction, The slice mounting assembly is sequentially provided with at least one first type of slice mounting assembly and at least one second type of slice mounting assembly alternately, The first type of slice mounting assembly sequentially comprises a plurality of first supporting plates and a second supporting plate, The second type of slice mounting assembly sequentially comprises a third supporting plate and a plurality of fourth supporting plates, The second supporting plate and the third supporting plate are adjacent to each other, Through the movement of the moving assembly, the second supporting plate and the third supporting plate can be combined into one supporting plate, thereby the slice mounting assembly corresponds to the slice arrangement in the slice cassette receiving basket of the staining machine, And through the movement of the moving assembly, the second supporting plate and the third supporting plate can be separated into independent supporting plates, thereby the slice mounting assembly corresponds to the slice arrangement in the slice cassette for the scanner.

2. The converter device according to claim 1, wherein, Each slice in the slice cassette receiving basket of the staining machine is arranged at a first interval, the slices accommodated in the slice cassette for the scanner are divided into a plurality of groups, each slice in each group is arranged at a second interval, and each group of slices in different groups is arranged at a third interval, the first interval, the second interval and the third interval are different from each other, The moving assembly moves the slice mounting assembly between a contracted state and an expanded state, In the contracted state, the slice mounting assembly is configured such that the adjacent second supporting plate and the third supporting plate are engaged with each other in a manner of being combined into one supporting plate, and all the slices in the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly are arranged at the first interval, In the expanded state, the slice mounting assembly is configured such that the adjacent second supporting plate and the third supporting plate are independent supporting plates respectively, and the slices in each of the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly are arranged at the second interval, the adjacent first supporting plate and fourth supporting plate, and the adjacent second supporting plate and the third supporting plate in the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly are arranged at the third interval.

3. The converter device according to claim 2, wherein, The slice cassette for the scanner can accommodate n groups of slices, each group of slices contains a slices, and the slice cassette receiving basket of the staining machine can accommodate b slices, the b slices are divided into m groups, wherein b = m * a, at least one of m and n is even, The slice mounting assembly comprises m * n / 2 pairs of the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly arranged alternately, and the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly can accommodate a slices respectively, In the contracted state, the slide mounting assembly is displaced to be able to accommodate a plurality of groups of slides corresponding to the b slides of the staining machine slide cassette receiving basket, In the expanded state, a pair of the first type slide mounting assembly and the second type slide mounting assembly of the slide mounting assembly are able to accommodate two groups of the n groups of slides corresponding to the scanner slide cassette.

4. The converter device according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, the first, second, third and fourth shelves each have a bottom plate, side edges on both sides of the bottom plate, and support slats parallel to the side edges with a gap therebetween and coplanar with the bottom plate, mounting slots for mounting slides are formed by the bottom plate, the side edges and the support slats, each of the first shelves and the second shelf as the first type slide mounting assembly has a plurality of mounting slots facing a first side between each other, each of the third shelf and the plurality of fourth shelves as the second type slide mounting assembly has a plurality of mounting slots facing a second side opposite to the first side between each other.

5. The converter device according to claim 4, wherein, the bottom plate of the second shelf is provided with a hollowed portion, the side edges of the second shelf are provided with a thinned portion, the support slats of the second shelf are shortened from one end of the side edges of the second shelf by an amount of the length of the thinned portion, the bottom plate of the third shelf is formed in a manner corresponding to the hollowed portion, the side edges of the third shelf are thinned except for a portion corresponding to the thinned portion and a portion where the bottom plate of the third shelf is formed, the support slats of the third shelf are elongated from one end of the side edges of the third shelf toward the bottom plate of the third shelf by an amount of the length of the thinned portion, when the second shelf and the third shelf are combined into one shelf, the second shelf and the third shelf are engaged with each other in a manner that the bottom plate of the third shelf is embedded in the hollowed portion, the side edges of the third shelf are fitted to the side edges of the second shelf, and the support slats of the third shelf are connected to the support slats of the second shelf.

6. The converter device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, the moving assembly comprises: a telescopic structure comprising a plurality of groups of ladders that are telescopable, and rollers provided on both sides of the ladders and connected with pulleys, each group of ladders being connected corresponding to a group of the first type slide mounting assembly or the second type slide mounting assembly of the slide mounting assembly, the ladders being able to telescope between a contracted initial form and an expanded final form; a first track provided on the housing to guide the pulleys of the rollers to slide; and a lever having a pushing claw for pushing the rollers.

7. The converter device according to claim 6, wherein, when the ladders are in the contracted initial form, the intervals in the ladders become the first intervals, When the moving assembly drives the slice mounting assembly to the unfolded state, the ladder frame is in the unfolded end state, and the interval in the ladder frame is the second interval.

8. The converter device of claim 6, wherein, The moving assembly is provided with two groups in a direction perpendicular to the specified direction, and the two groups of moving assembly are respectively provided with the first type of slice mounting assembly and the second type of slice mounting assembly.

9. The converter device of claim 6, wherein, The moving assembly further comprises: a positioning block comprising a first positioning block limiting the movement of the roller to a contraction start position so that the ladder frame is in the contraction start state, and / or a second positioning block limiting the movement of the roller to an expansion end position so that the ladder frame is in the expansion end state, The roller and the positioning block are positioned by magnetic attraction.

10. The converter device of claim 9, wherein, The push claw comprises a first push claw pushing the roller to the contraction start position so that the ladder frame is in the contraction start state, and / or a second push claw pushing the roller to the expansion end position so that the ladder frame is in the expansion end state, The first push claw and the second push claw are respectively arranged on both sides of the roller, The first push claw and the second push claw are oppositely directed, The push claw is arranged to move above the positioning block.

11. The converter device of claim 6, wherein, The moving assembly further comprises: a buckle arranged on the shell and limiting the movement of the lever to an expansion end position so that the ladder frame is in the expansion end state.

12. The converter device of claim 6, wherein, The moving assembly further comprises: a second track arranged on the shell and embedded with a sliding block connected to the lever.

13. The converter device of claim 6, wherein, The lever further has a handle arranged on the outside of the shell, The moving assembly is moved by pulling the handle.

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