Documenting cut surfaces of histological blocks

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (10; 30; 100) for automatically capturing at least one image of a block (18) comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, the device (10; 30; 100) comprising a receptacle (102) for the block (18), a camera unit (12) having at least one camera (14, 16), and a control unit (104). The camera unit (12) is designed to repeatedly capture an image from the region of the receptacle (102) and to transmit this image to the control unit (104). The control unit (104) is configured to receive and analyze each image. The control unit (104) instructs the camera unit (12), provided the identification code has been recognized, to capture at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18). The invention also relates to a method (200) for automatically capturing (A4, A9, A11, A13) at least one image of a block (18) comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, the method (200) comprising the steps: capturing (A4) an image from the region of the receptacle (102); analyzing (A5) the image from the region of the receptacle (102); repeating the preceding steps until the identification code is recognized (B5a); and capturing (A9) at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18).

Description

Documentation of section surfaces of histological blocks TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The invention relates to the field of automated digital imaging, in particular the field of documenting sectioned surfaces of histological blocks by such imaging. The invention specifically relates to a device and a method for automatically acquiring at least one image of a block comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, as well as a computer program product by which the device can be instructed to carry out the method. BACKGROUND

[0002] Histology is a method used in science and medicine in a variety of ways for the microscopic examination of samples. In this process, a sample is examined. embedded in a block of embedding material, which is usually a tissue sample from a living organism or can be a sample of any material.

[0003] Suitable embedding materials include paraffin or polymers. The embedding material is poured around the sample in liquid form and then solidified. This stabilizes the sample for sectioning. The block is cast in a special embedding cassette, which gives the block its shape and allows it to remain after solidification. The cassette can be labeled with information about the sample, particularly its origin. This information can also be contained in a barcode or identification code affixed to or integrated into the cassette.

[0004] Using a microtome, the user prepares sections, for example, with a thickness of approximately 0.5 to 10 pm, and places them on a microscope slide. After further processing, which may include staining specific tissue areas, the section of the sample can be viewed under a microscope.

[0005] During or after sectioning, sample fragments may be lost from the section, making them invisible when the section is finally examined under a microscope. It is also possible for a section to be assigned to the wrong patient or block. Conclusions drawn from the sample in the section would then be applied to the wrong block or patient. These are fundamental problems in science and medicine, particularly in pathology.

[0006] To counteract this, the cut surface of the block can be visually compared with the section on the slide to determine if the section is complete. This comparison is often only possible using magnified images of the sample, as small losses in the section are difficult or impossible to detect with the naked eye. A comparison can be made manually or by taking images of the cut surface.

[0007] Manually matching the sections with the corresponding block is very time-consuming and labor-intensive, as the block must first be obtained, for example from an archive. Furthermore, this procedure requires the user to be present at their workstation to have physical access to the blocks.

[0008] US 11,257,216 B2 discloses a device for capturing images of blocks and slides, wherein the cut surface and the slide are captured first, and then, if present, a barcode. Using the barcode, the images are then digitally archived and assigned to a patient. The captured images can subsequently be compared automatically. However, capturing images of the block's cut surface is a time-consuming process, especially since a large number of blocks are typically involved and a single block may need to be captured multiple times.

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to eliminate the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art by providing a device that enables a high block throughput with minimal time and effort required by the user. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] According to the invention, the problem is solved by providing a device for the automated acquisition of at least one image of a block comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, wherein the device comprises: a receptacle for the block, a camera unit comprising at least one camera, a control unit, wherein the camera unit is configured to repeatedly acquire an image from the receptacle area and send it to the control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to receive and analyze each image, wherein, if the identification code has been recognized, the control unit instructs the camera unit to capture at least one image of the sample embedded in the block.

[0011] According to the invention, the sample can be any type of material whose microscopic examination is of interest and which is in a sectionable state or has been brought into a sectionable state. Preferably, it is tissue from a living organism.

[0012] In this context, a block or histological block is understood to mean at least the sample embedded in an embedding material for histological purposes. Embedding materials can be paraffin or plastic polymers. The shape of the block is not restricted to a specific form. For example, the block can be cuboid, cube, disc, or spherical, and is preferably cuboid or cube-shaped. However, the shape can also be asymmetrical or irregular.

[0013] The block may also enclose an embedding cassette in which the mounting material is anchored. The embedding cassette may be a commercially available embedding cassette for histological purposes. Such an embedding cassette may have dimensions of approximately 42 mm x 29 mm x 5 mm. The surface of the block where sections were made forms the section surface. The embedded sample is visible at the section surface.

[0014] According to the invention, an identification code is understood to be any type of optically readable information by which it is possible to identify the block. The information can be in the form of, for example, a sequence of digits or numbers, a barcode, a QR code, a DataMatrix code, a color code, a color marking, or a similar format. The identification code can be positioned at any location on the block except where the identification code obscures the embedded sample or a part thereof.

[0015] According to the invention, a receptacle for the block is understood to be any structure that can be used as a holder or support for a block. The receptacle can clamp or snap the block into place, or it can simply serve as a position marker on which the block must be placed so that the camera unit can capture an image of it.

[0016] According to the invention, the camera unit comprises at least one camera. For the purposes of this invention, a camera also includes a scanner. The camera is positioned and its optical system is configured such that the camera can capture a sufficiently high-resolution image of the recording area. The image is sufficiently high-resolution if the resolution of the control unit allows both the recognition of an existing identification code and the detection of sample material loss by a healthy human eye when comparing the cut surface of the block with the corresponding section on a microscope slide. Sample material loss from the section can occur, for example, due to individual sections falling out or tearing during cutting or handling of the section. The camera unit can be decentralized, meaning it can have several components that are spatially and / or technically separate from one another.

[0017] The control unit is a technical device, preferably a computer, that has at least one temporary memory, for example, a so-called main memory, and may also have a permanent memory. The control unit also includes a processor (CPU). The control unit can be decentralized, i.e., it can have two or more secondary control units, each with its own CPU. The secondary control units can be spatially and / or technically separated from one another and perform different functions of the control unit or, in other words, control different components of the device.

[0018] The term "capture" here refers to the optical capture or recording of an image, its translation into binary code, and its temporary or permanent storage. Accordingly, the term "image" encompasses both a visible image or photograph and the binary code containing the image information. Temporary storage is defined as storing the image in a memory location. Working memory (or RAM) is understood as memory that is automatically emptied at regular, relatively short intervals. Permanent storage is understood as storage in memory that is not intended to be automatically emptied at regular intervals.

[0019] According to the invention, automated detection means that a user of the device does not perform any steps or actions in connection with the detection, except for placing the block in the receptacle and removing the block from the receptacle.

[0020] The term "analyze" here refers to the application of an algorithm by the control unit that can recognize an identification code in the binary code of the captured image.

[0021] According to the invention, the camera unit captures an image from the recording area and sends it to the control unit. The control unit analyzes the image, and as long as no identification code is recognized during the analysis, the camera unit automatically captures another image from the recording area and sends it back to the control unit for further analysis. This sequence is repeated continuously, at least until an identification code is recognized. It is irrelevant whether a block is present in the recording or not. As soon as a block is placed in the recording, the control unit can recognize the identification code through image analysis. Only when an identification code is recognized is the camera unit instructed by the control unit to capture an image of the embedded sample.

[0022] The image from the recording area comprises at least the area in which the identification code is positioned during the intended use of the device according to the invention, such that it is completely captured. However, the image from the recording area may also include other areas in which neither an identification code or a part thereof, nor the embedded sample or a part thereof, is present during the intended use of the device according to the invention. are positioned, or areas in which, when the device according to the invention is used as intended, the embedded sample or a part thereof is positioned.

[0023] The image of the embedded sample comprises at least the area of ​​the image in which, during intended use of the device according to the invention, the embedded sample is positioned so that it is completely captured. However, the image of the embedded sample may also include other areas in which neither an identification code or a part thereof nor the embedded sample or a part thereof is typically positioned, or areas in which, during intended use of the device according to the invention, the identification code or a part thereof is positioned.

[0024] The present invention completely solves the problem.

[0025] The device according to the invention advantageously reduces the number of operating steps required for documenting the sectioned area of ​​histological blocks, thus simplifying the workflow. When preparing sections with a microtome, the user only needs to place the block in the scanner. All further steps are performed automatically by the device. This allows the user to concentrate more on producing high-quality sections.

[0026] Furthermore, saving the images advantageously allows them to be accessed at any later time and potentially from any location. This, along with the streamlined workflow, reduces the time required by the user for documenting the blocks and later evaluating the sections, and makes the work location more flexible.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the camera unit comprises at least a first camera and a second camera, wherein the first camera is configured to take an image of the to capture identification codes and with the second camera configured to capture an image of the sample embedded in the block.

[0028] The presence of at least two cameras advantageously makes it possible to adjust the resolution of the image from the recording area, which captures at least the area of ​​the recording in which the identification code is positioned during the intended use of the device according to the invention, so that it is fully captured, and of the image of the embedded sample in such a way that only the minimum necessary amount of data is generated in each case.

[0029] The image of the embedded sample typically requires a higher resolution to clearly show the sample, its outlines, and any internal structures, even at magnification. Therefore, the second camera preferably captures the image of the embedded sample at a higher resolution than the first camera. Furthermore, a lower resolution image from the first camera minimizes the amount of data sent to and analyzed by the control unit, thus increasing processing speed.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second cameras are positioned at an angle of approximately 180° to each other, i.e., they are aligned opposite each other and capture an image of two substantially opposite sides of the block. Advantageously, this allows the use of commercially available embedding cassettes, which are typically marked with an identification code on the side opposite the cut surface (i.e., on the back).

[0031] Two substantially opposite sides of a block are understood to be two sides of the block whose surfaces are substantially parallel to each other. The two surfaces do not necessarily have to be absolutely parallel. For example, the surfaces could be opposite sides of a cuboid or cuboid-like structure. Alternatively, the surfaces could be adjacent sides of a cuboid-like structure, where the surfaces do not meet at a 90° angle, but at a smaller angle.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment, the control unit is configured to instruct the camera unit to capture the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block only if the detected identification code is not identical to the most recently detected identification code.

[0033] The identification code recognized most recently is understood to be the identification code that the control unit recognized when analyzing the image from the recording area that was analyzed by the camera unit immediately before the image in whose analysis the control unit recognized the identification code.

[0034] This advantageously allows for control over the image acquisition of the embedded sample, as only one image of the embedded sample is captured, and only when a new block is placed in the frame. This avoids unnecessary repeated image acquisition of the embedded sample, thereby reducing the amount of data to be sent from the camera unit to the control unit, thus reducing the control unit's memory requirements and increasing operating speed.

[0035] In a further preferred embodiment, the control unit is further configured to discard the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block if the identification code detected after acquiring the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block is not identical to the identification code detected before acquiring the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block, or if no identification code is detected after acquiring the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block, or if an artifact or contamination is detected in the image after acquiring the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block.

[0036] It can happen that the block is removed or replaced after its identification code has been recognized and before the image of the embedded sample has been acquired. In these cases, the image does not show the embedded sample, but either no sample at all or a sample that is incorrect with respect to the identification code. Furthermore, it can happen that a contamination or other artifact is present in the image and may obscure part of the sample. Discarding such an image of the embedded sample advantageously serves as a quality control measure. This prevents a potentially faulty image from being permanently stored. Furthermore, this advantageously reduces the memory requirements of the control unit.

[0037] An "artifact" is an object visible in a captured image, but whose visibility is undesirable, for example, because the object obscures part of the sample or the identification code. An artifact could be, for example, contamination by dust, fragments that have detached from the mounting material, or a human finger.

[0038] In another preferred embodiment, the device is configured to emit an acoustic or visual signal when the identification code detected after capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block is identical to the identification code detected before capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block.

[0039] Advantageously, an acoustic or visual signal allows the user to be informed when an image of the embedded sample has been successfully acquired and when he can replace the block in question with another block.

[0040] In another preferred embodiment, the device further comprises a lighting unit configured to illuminate the recording area.

[0041] Lighting has the advantage of improving image quality. The lighting unit can have diffuse and / or directional light sources.

[0042] In another preferred embodiment, the lighting unit has exclusively diffuse light sources.

[0043] Paraffin as an embedding material is both translucent and reflective. Excessive one-sided illumination, which could cause translucency and / or reflections, can be avoided by designing the light sources as diffuse light sources. However, a lighting unit according to this embodiment is also suitable for other embedding materials, such as plastic polymers.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the illumination unit comprises a first light source which is provided to illuminate the identification code, or the identification code and the embedded sample, and a second light source which is provided to illuminate the embedded sample.

[0045] Separate illumination of the embedded sample by a second light source advantageously allows for optimization of the image quality of the image of the embedded sample compared to the image from the recording area.

[0046] A light source can be a bar light. In this context, a bar light is understood to be a light source whose visible light-emitting surface is bar-shaped, i.e., rectangular.

[0047] A light source can be a ring light. In this context, a ring light is understood to be a ring-shaped light source that can be positioned around the lens of a camera.

[0048] A light source can be a light-emitting diode (LED).

[0049] In a further preferred embodiment, the shortest distance between two points of the outer boundary of the part of the device, which includes at least the receiver and the camera unit, is less than 40 cm, preferably less than 35 cm, and more preferably less than 28 cm.

[0050] According to the invention, the device is designed to be as compact as possible. This advantageously allows the device to be placed in a space-saving manner at the workstation. User. A maximum extension of up to 40 cm for the part of the device that includes at least the receiver and the camera unit has proven to be sufficiently compact.

[0051] The control unit and / or the lighting unit may, but do not have to, be located outside this compact part of the device.

[0052] In another preferred embodiment, the device has a mirror system reflecting the recording area, towards which the camera unit is aligned.

[0053] The mirror system has at least one mirror.

[0054] A mirror system has the advantage that the number of cameras can be reduced and / or the positioning of the cameras relative to the block can be changed. Both of these advantages allow for a more compact design of the device.

[0055] According to the invention, the problem is further solved by a method for automatically acquiring at least one image of a block comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, wherein the method comprises the following steps in this order: acquiring an image from the area of ​​acquisition, analyzing the image from the area of ​​acquisition, repeating the preceding steps at least until the identification code is recognized, and acquiring at least one image of the sample embedded in the block.

[0056] According to the invention, the image from the recording area is captured and analyzed in a loop, a so-called analysis loop. If an identification code is recognized in the image from the recording area, a so-called acquisition loop is initiated, during which an image of the sample embedded in the block is captured. The analysis loop can be repeated continuously and automatically after the acquisition loop has been initiated, at least until the identification code has been recognized.

[0057] A "loop" is understood to mean the continuously repeated execution of a defined sequence of process steps.

[0058] According to the invention, each loop can be interrupted by a termination command, which the user can give manually or which is initiated by the control unit after a defined time has elapsed.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the method is carried out by the device according to the invention. Here, the entire method can run in a loop, a so-called process loop. After capturing the image of the embedded sample, further processing or archiving of the image(s) can take place, or one or more additional images can be captured. Processing can, for example, include image processing or image recognition to detect artifacts in a captured image. Once all desired steps have been completed, the method is repeated, starting with the analysis loop.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment, the step of capturing at least one image of the sample embedded in the block is only carried out when an identification code is detected that is not identical to the identification code that was detected most recently.

[0061] In this embodiment, the analysis loop is extended to include a novelty check. Entry into the detection loop only occurs if a new identification code, i.e., one different from the last one detected, has been recognized.

[0062] The most recently recognized identification code is understood to be the identification code that the control unit recognized in the most recently performed analysis loop.

[0063] This advantageously allows only one image of the embedded sample to be acquired, and only when a new block has been placed in the image. This avoids unnecessary repeated acquisition of the image of the same embedded sample. This reduces the amount of data that the camera unit has to send to the control unit, thus reducing the memory requirements of the control unit and increasing its operating speed.

[0064] In a further preferred embodiment, the method, after the step of capturing at least one image of the sample embedded in the block, comprises the following steps: capturing an image from the area of ​​acquisition, analyzing the image from the area of ​​acquisition, discarding the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block unless the same identification code is recognized again or an artifact is detected.

[0065] In this embodiment, the acquisition loop is extended to include a quality control step. The at least one acquired image of the block is only not discarded if, immediately after the acquisition of the at least one image of the block is completed, an identification code is recognized during the subsequent acquisition and analysis of an image from the same area that is identical to the identification code recognized in the last analysis loop.

[0066] If the identification code detected in a newly acquired image of the embedded sample, taken after the initial image capture, is not identical to the identification code from the previous analysis loop, then the image of the embedded sample (u.ll.) does not show the embedded sample, but rather a sample that is incorrect with respect to the identification code. Discarding such an image of the embedded sample has the advantage of performing quality control.

[0067] Discarded images can be reproduced. For example, before completing his work, the user of the device according to the invention can manually check the images stored by the control unit and may encounter missing images. He can then selectively reproduce these.

[0068] As an alternative to a manual check for missing images, the identification code, which is recognized as new but whose associated image of the embedded sample is missing, can be used. The discarded block is stored in a separate location so that the user can have this block recaptured at a later time, thus eliminating the need for the user to actively search for missing images.

[0069] According to the invention, the problem is further solved by a computer program product which contains program code means which, when executed on a computer, in particular a control unit, cause the control unit to carry out the method for capturing at least one image of a block which has a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code.

[0070] Further advantages and features will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawing. It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0071] The following are non-limiting examples of embodiments explained in detail with reference to the drawing. The drawing shows:

[0072] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a device for the automated acquisition of at least one image of a block containing a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code;

[0073] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a device for the automated acquisition of at least one image of a block comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, wherein the device comprises a mirror system;

[0074] Fig. 3 shows a device for automatically capturing at least one image of a block containing a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code as an exploded view; and

[0075] Fig. 4 shows a flowchart of a method for the automated acquisition of at least one image of a block containing a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a device 10 for the automated acquisition of at least one image of a block containing a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code. The device 10 comprises a receiver (not shown) for a block 18, a camera unit 12, and a control unit (not shown).

[0077] Block 18 contains a sample (not shown) embedded in an embedding material 20. The sample can be any type of sample whose microscopic examination is of interest and which is in a sectionable state or has been prepared for sectioning. Preferably, it is tissue from a living organism. The embedded sample is visible in a section 24 of block 18. The embedding material 20 can be paraffin or a plastic polymer, preferably paraffin.

[0078] Furthermore, block 18 includes an embeddable cassette 22, which forms the reverse side 26 of block 18. The embeddable cassette 22 is optional.

[0079] Block 18 is equipped with an identification code (not shown) by which the block 18 can be identified. The identification code can be any type of optically readable information. The information can be, for example, a sequence of digits or numbers, a barcode, a QR code, a color code, or a similar format. The identification code can be positioned anywhere on the block except where the identification code obscures the embedded sample or part thereof. Preferably, the identification code is positioned on the back side 26 of block 18.

[0080] The block 18 can have any regular, symmetrical, asymmetrical, or irregular shape. For example, the block 18 can be cuboid, cube-shaped, disc-shaped, or spherical, and is preferably cuboidal or cube-shaped. The shape of the block 18, in particular the shape of the back surface 26 of the block 18, can be determined by the optional embedding cassette 18. The back surface 26 of the block 18 can be flat or have a relief.

[0081] Block 18, for example, has a spatial dimension axbxc of 42 mm x 29 mm x 5 mm, where the thickness c of the block decreases as cuts are made and a thickness of 5 mm represents the minimum thickness.

[0082] The camera unit 12 of the device 10 is configured to repeatedly or continuously capture an image from the area of ​​the recording (not shown) where the block 18 is placed during normal use of the device 10. The camera unit 12 comprises a first camera 14 and a second camera 16, wherein the first camera 14 is configured to capture an image of the identification code and wherein the second camera 16 is configured to capture an image of the sample embedded in the block 18. For this purpose, the first camera 14, more precisely its lens or light entry window, is directed at the identification code (i.e., the rear surface 26 of the block 18), while the second camera 16, more precisely its lens or light entry window, is directed at the embedded sample (i.e., the cut surface 24 of the block 18).

[0083] In device 10, the cameras 14 and 16, more precisely their lenses or light entry windows, are arranged at an angle of approximately 180° and aligned with each other.

[0084] In other preferred embodiments, however, the cameras 14 and 16 can be arranged at any angle that allows both cameras to capture a sufficiently resolved image of the identification code or the embedded sample.

[0085] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a device 30 for capturing at least one image of a block 18 containing a sample embedded for histological purposes and a has an identification code, wherein the device 30, in contrast to the device 10, has a mirror system 34.

[0086] The mirror system 34 comprises at least one mirror. The mirror system 34 of the device 30 comprises three mirrors 36, 38, and 40 and reflects the rear surface 26 of the block 18 into the lens or the light entry window of the first camera 14. The rear surface 26 of the block 18 has an inclined surface 32 relative to the rest of the rear surface 26 of the block 18. This inclined surface is formed by a side face of the substantially cuboid block 18, the side face being arranged at an angle of more than 90° to the rear surface 26 of the block 18 and at an angle of less than 90° to the cross-sectional surface 24 of the block 18. Under these conditions, the side face is referred to in this document as the inclined surface 32 of the rear surface 26 of the block 18.

[0087] The inclined surface 32 of the back 26 of the block 18 is reflected by means of the mirror 38 and the remaining back 26 of the block 18 is reflected by means of the mirror 36 onto the mirror 40, on which the first camera 14, more precisely its lens or light entry window, is aligned.

[0088] The first camera 14 and the second camera 16 are positioned next to each other and aligned parallel to each other. The second camera 16 is directed towards the cut surface 24 of block 18, and the first camera 14 is directed towards the mirror system 34, more precisely towards mirror 27.

[0089] In other preferred embodiments, the camera unit 12 of the device 30 can have a single camera which is simultaneously directed both towards the cut surface 24 of the block 18 and towards the mirror system 34.

[0090] Fig. 3 shows a device 100 for capturing at least one image of a block 18 which has a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code.

[0091] The device 100 comprises a receptacle 102, a camera unit 12, wherein the camera unit 12 comprises a first camera 14 and a second camera 16, and a control unit 104.

[0092] The device 100 has the basic structure of the device 10 from Fig. 1.

[0093] The device 100 further comprises a housing 106. The housing 106 is in The housing 106 is essentially L-shaped and hollow, comprising a lumen 108, a lower horizontal leg 110, and an upper vertical leg 112. The lower horizontal leg 110 of the L-shaped housing 106 has a substantially flat underside as a base and encloses the first camera 14 within its lumen 108. The lower leg 110 of the L-shaped housing 106 has a receiving opening 114 at its outer tip, which extends to the central region of the upper surface of the lower leg 110 of the L-shaped housing 106 and is partially closed by a shutter 116. The shutter 116 is attached to the housing 106, for example, by a plug-in mechanism.The portion of the recording opening 114 remaining after the shutter piece 116 is inserted is located in the central region of the upper surface of the lower leg 110 of the L-shaped housing 106 and provides the connecting axis between the first camera 14 and the second camera 16. The edges 102a, 102b, and 102c of the portion of the recording opening 114 remaining after the shutter piece 116 is inserted form the recording 102.

[0094] In the receptacle 102, a block 18 is placed during the intended use of the device 100, with the receptacle 102 serving as a support for the block 18. For this purpose, the rectangular area of ​​the receptacle opening 114 is designed to be at least large enough to allow the embedded sample to be completely captured by the first camera and at most large enough to allow a block 18 to rest simultaneously on at least two opposite edges of the receptacle opening 114 after the closure piece 116 has been inserted.

[0095] In another embodiment, the receptacle 102 is round, with the round receiving opening 114 closed by a transparent material (not shown). Here, the edges 102a, 102b, 102c of the receptacle 102 are flush and thus form a rotational symmetry, preferably circular or approximately circular. A recess can be formed between the edges 102a, 102b, and 102c of the receptacle 102, the bottom of which is formed by the transparent material. Alternatively, the transparent material can form a plane with the L-shaped housing 106 towards the block 18. The transparent material can be, for example, glass or a transparent plastic.

[0096] In this embodiment, the block 18 can advantageously be placed in the receptacle 102 in a simplified manner, since the user does not have to take its orientation in the horizontal plane into account.

[0097] In other preferred embodiments, the receptacle 102 can also serve as a holder in which the block 18 is clamped or snapped into place so that the camera unit can capture an image of it.

[0098] The camera unit 12 of the device 100 has the first camera 14 and the second camera 16.

[0099] The first camera 14 of the device 100, for example, is a 5.04 megapixel camera comprising a lens (not shown), a resolution of 2592 px x 1944 px, a minimum object distance of 300 mm, an f / 2.8 aperture (not shown), a light sensor (not shown), a field of view of 80°, and dimensions of 60 mm x 9 mm x 13.6 mm. The minimum object distance of the first camera 14 is arbitrarily adjustable by varying the distance between the lens and the light sensor. A working distance, i.e., a distance between the rear surface 26 of block 18 and the lens (not shown) of the first camera 14, is 27.1 mm. The aforementioned features of the first camera 14 have proven suitable for resolving an identification code consisting of elements approximately 0.34 mm in size.

[0100] In other preferred embodiments, the first camera 14 can have one or more intermediate rings for setting or adjusting the minimum object distance. Furthermore, the camera specifications can be adapted to the type of block 18 and the type of identification code to enable sufficient resolution.

[0101] The first camera 14 of the device 100 is connected to the control unit 104 via a data interface 118 and a cable 118a, 118b, and is protected from dust by a first camera cover 120. The data interface 118 and the cable 118a, 118b enable communication and data exchange between the control unit 104 and the first camera 14 and ensure a power supply to the first camera 14. The first camera 14 and the first camera cover 120 are fastened in the housing 108 and to the base of the housing 106 by a fastening element, for example, screws 122 and nuts 124. The first camera cover 120 has an opening 126 and encloses the first camera 14, leaving the connecting axis between the first camera 14 and the second camera 16 unobstructed through the opening 126.

[0102] The second camera 16 of the device 100, for example, is a 12-megapixel camera featuring a lens 128 with a focal length of 8 mm and a 1 / 1.7" sensor 132 with a resolution of 4000 px x 3036 px and a pixel size of 1.85 pm x 1.85 pm. The 1 / 1.7" sensor 132 is a light sensor. Furthermore, the second camera 16 has two extension rings 130 with a total thickness of 1 mm. The minimum object distance between the lens 128 and the cut surface 24 of the block 18 is approximately 33.4 mm. A working distance, i.e., a distance of 35.4 mm between the cutting surface 24 of block 18 and the lens 128 of the second camera 16, advantageously provides enough space to ensure, on the one hand, unimpeded placement and accessibility of block 18 in the fixture 102, and on the other hand, to keep the spatial dimensions of the device 100 as small or compact as possible. In addition, the camera-specific minimum and maximum object distance must also be taken into account.Furthermore, the second camera 16 has an aperture (not shown), preferably an f / 8, f / 12 or f / 16 aperture. Each of these preferred apertures has proven suitable to ensure a sufficient depth of field for blocks of thickness c from about 7.87 mm to about 14.81 mm.

[0103] In other preferred embodiments, the camera specifications can be adapted to the type of block 18 and the type of identification code, so that sufficient resolution is enabled.

[0104] The second camera 16 of the device 100 is connected to the control unit 104 via a data interface 134 and a cable 134a, 134b, and is protected by a second camera cover 136. The data interface 134 and the cable 134a, 134b enable communication and data exchange between the control unit 104 and the second camera 16 and ensure a power supply to the second camera 16. The second camera 16 is attached to the housing 106 by a fastening means, for example, screws 138. The second camera cover 136 is hollow, has an opening 140 on its underside facing the receptacle 102, is attached to the housing 106 by fastening means, such as screws 142, and encloses the second camera 16, with the connecting axis between the first camera 14 and the second camera 16 remaining unobstructed through the opening 140.

[0105] In other preferred embodiments, the camera unit 12 can comprise a single camera.

[0106] In other preferred embodiments, a transparent material (not shown) can be located between the camera unit 12 or a part of the camera unit 12, in particular the lens 128 of the camera unit 12, or the first camera 14 and / or the second camera 16, in particular the lens of the first camera 14 and / or the lens 128 of the second camera 16, and the mount 102. This transparent material is positioned and extended such that contamination of the lens 128 or the lenses is prevented or reduced. The transparent material can be part of the mount 102. Contamination can occur, for example, from pieces detaching from the embedding material, dust, or similar substances. The transparent material can be, for example, glass or a transparent plastic.

[0107] Furthermore, the device 100 is equipped with a lighting unit 144, which is configured to illuminate the area of ​​the recording 102. The lighting unit The 144 unit includes a bar light 146 and a ring light 148. The ring light 148 is connected to the control unit 104 via a connector 150 and a cable 150a, 150b. The bar light 146 is connected to the control unit 104 via a connector 152 and a cable 152a, 152b. The lighting unit 144 is powered via the cables 150a, 150b and 152a, 152b and the connectors 150 and 152.

[0108] In other embodiments, the lighting unit 144 may include an LED (not shown) configured to illuminate the identification code.

[0109] The L-shaped housing 106 has a bar-shaped or rectangular bar light opening 154 on the front of its upper, vertical leg 112, and the hollow upper leg 112 of the L-shaped housing is filled by the bar light 146 along its entire length, i.e., from the base to the upper tip. In this way, the bar light 146 illuminates both the cut surface 24 of the block facing the second camera and the rear surface 26 of the block 18 facing the first camera and the lumen 108 of the lower leg 110 of the L-shaped housing 106.

[0110] The ring light 148 is attached to the tip of the upper leg 112 of the L-shaped housing 106. Screws (not shown) can serve as fastening means. In this way, the ring light 148 illuminates the cut surface 24 of the block and thus the sample embedded in the block 18.

[0111] In other preferred embodiments, the bar light 146 and ring light 148 can be connected to the control unit 104 by means of a single, split cable. Alternatively, the entire lighting unit 144 can be connected to an external power source instead of the control unit 104, and the lighting unit 144 can be switched on manually at the device 100, preferably by pressing a button or switch.

[0112] A portion of the device 100, excluding the control unit 104 and the cables 118a, 118b, 134a, 134b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b, has spatial dimensions of 12.5 cm x 11.4 cm x 21.6 cm. Therefore, the shortest distance between two Points of the outer boundary of the part of the device which includes at least the receptacle 102 and the camera unit 12, less than 28 cm.

[0113] In other preferred embodiments, the shortest distance between two points of the outer boundary of the part of the device 100, which includes at least the receptacle 102 and the camera unit 12, can be less than 40 cm, preferably less than 35 cm, and more preferably less than 28 cm.

[0114] In further preferred embodiments, the entire device 100 or a part of the device 100, excluding the control unit 104 and the cables 118a, 118b, 134a, 134b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b and the lighting unit 144, can have the aforementioned spatial dimensions of less than 40 cm, preferably less than 35 cm, and more preferably less than 28 cm.

[0115] The control unit 104 of the device 100 is a computer.

[0116] In other preferred embodiments, the control unit 104 can be any type of technical device comprising at least one processor (CPU) and temporary memory, for example, so-called main memory, and may further comprise persistent memory. The control unit can be decentralized.

[0117] In other preferred embodiments, the control unit 104 comprises two secondary control units, each with its own CPU. A first secondary control unit (not shown) is, for example, a computer, and a second secondary control unit (not shown) is integrated into a scanner (not shown). The scanner also integrates the first camera 14, which is part of the camera unit 12. The term "scanner" thus refers to components belonging to the camera unit as well as other components belonging to the control unit. Only the secondary control unit integrated into the scanner sends instructions to the first camera 14.

[0118] In other preferred embodiments, the control unit 104 can have more than two secondary control units.

[0119] The device 100 performs a method 200, illustrated in Fig. 4, for the automated acquisition of at least one image of a block 18 containing a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code. Unless otherwise specified, the control unit 104 issues all instructions (reference numerals preceded by "A") and checks all conditions (reference numerals preceded by "B") according to instructions from program code executed on the control unit 104. The program code may be contained in a computer program product.

[0120] The lighting unit 144 of the device 100 is switched on when the execution of the program code means is started, and switched off as soon as an instruction (at A22) is given to stop the execution of the program code means.

[0121] The execution of the program code can be started by the user. When the execution of the program code is started, the control unit 104 attempts to connect to the camera unit 12, or more precisely, to the second camera 16 in the case of device 100 (at A1). If this is unsuccessful (at B1b), an instruction to terminate the execution of the program code is issued (at A22). If the second camera 16 has been successfully connected to the control unit 104 (at B1a), an instruction to set parameters, such as the exposure time, is sent to the second camera 16 (at A2). The parameters can also be set manually by the user before the second camera 16 is given an instruction to set parameters, such as the exposure time (at A2). Once the parameters are set (at B2a), the control unit 104 connects to the first camera 14 (at A3).If this is unsuccessful (at B3b), an instruction to terminate the execution of the program code means is given (at A22).

[0122] Provided that the first camera 14 has been successfully connected to the control unit 104 (at B3a), the analysis loop begins by sending an instruction to the first camera 14 to capture an image from the recording area 102 and to send the image to the control unit 104 (at A4). Once the image has been captured and sent to the control unit 104 (at B4a), it is analyzed by the control unit 104 (at A5).

[0123] In other preferred embodiments, where the camera unit 12 has only a single camera, the instruction to connect the control unit 104 to the first camera 14 (in A3) is omitted, as is the condition that the first camera 14 must be connected to the control unit 104 (in B3a). After the parameters of the camera unit 12 have been successfully set (in B2a), the analysis loop starts directly (in A4).

[0124] In the procedure 200 executed by the device 100, if no identification code is recognized (at B5b), it is checked whether a termination command has been issued (at A19). Then the analysis loop is either restarted if no termination command has been issued (at B19b), or the termination of the program code means is initiated.

[0125] If the control unit 104 detects an identification code during analysis (at A5) (at B5a), it checks whether the identification code is identical to the identification code detected in the previous analysis loop (at A6). If an identification code identical to the previous analysis loop is detected (at B6b), it checks whether a termination command was issued (at A19). Then, the analysis loop is either restarted if no termination command was issued (at B19b), or the execution of the program code is terminated.

[0126] In other preferred embodiments, the initiation of the acquisition loop (at A7) can be based on the instruction to check whether the identification code is identical to the identification code recognized in the previous analysis loop (at A6) and on the condition that a code not identical to the one in the previous analysis loop is not detected. The identification code is recognized (in the case of B6a), and this check can be omitted. The latter check represents a mechanism to avoid the unnecessary repeated saving of identical images from the area of ​​recording 102.

[0127] In the method 200 performed by the device 100, if an identification code not identical to that of the previous analysis loop is detected (at B6a), the analysis loop transitions into a data acquisition loop. In the data acquisition loop, the camera unit 12, or more precisely, the second camera 16 in the case of device 100, captures at least one image of the embedded sample and stores it in a persistent storage location assigned to the detected identification code of the relevant block 18, i.e., in a so-called folder. For this purpose, it is checked whether the folder assigned to the identification code exists (at A7). If the folder does not exist (at B7a), an instruction is given to generate the folder (at A8).

[0128] If the folder exists or has been generated (in case B8a), an instruction is given to camera unit 12, or more precisely to the second camera 16 in the case of device 100, to capture an image of the embedded sample (in case A9). If the image of the embedded sample has been captured (in case B9a), an instruction is given to save the image of the embedded sample in the folder (in case A10). If the image of the embedded sample is saved in the folder (in case B10a), an instruction is given to camera unit 12, or more precisely to the first camera 14 in the case of device 100, to capture an image from the area of ​​recording 102 (in case A11). If the image from the area of ​​recording 102 has been captured (in case B11a), an instruction is given to save the image from the area of ​​recording 102 in the folder (in case A12).

[0129] Provided that the image of the embedded sample and the image from the area of ​​recording 102 are stored in the folder (at B12a), the quality control begins by sending an instruction to camera unit 12, or more precisely to the first camera 14 in the case of device 100, to capture an image from the area of ​​recording 102 and send it to the control unit 104 (at A13). Once the image from the area of ​​recording 102 has been captured and sent to the control unit 104 (at B13a), it is analyzed by the control unit 104 (at A14).

[0130] If an identification code is detected (at B14a), it is checked whether it is identical to the identification code detected in the analysis loop (at A15). If this is the case (at B15a), it is checked whether a termination command has been issued (at A19). Then the analysis loop is either restarted if no termination command has been issued (at B19b), or the execution of the program code is terminated.

[0131] If no identification code is detected (at B14b), or if an identification code is detected that is not identical to the identification code detected in the analysis loop (at B15b), or if an artifact is detected (not shown), an instruction is given to discard the image from the acquisition area and the image of the embedded sample (at A16). If the images are discarded (at B16a), the program checks whether the folder is empty (at A17). If the folder is empty (at B17a), an instruction is given to discard the folder (at A18). If the folder is not empty (at B17b), or if the folder has been discarded (at B18a), the program checks whether a termination command has been issued (at A19). Then, the analysis loop is either restarted if no termination command has been issued (at B19b), or the execution of the program code is terminated.

[0132] In other preferred embodiments, after quality control, i.e., if an identification code has been detected that is identical to the identification code detected in the analysis loop (in B15a), the user can be notified by a signal of the successful documentation of the relevant block 18, that is, of the fact that the images of block 18 already permanently stored have not been discarded. The signal can be, for example, an acoustic or visual signal.

[0133] In further preferred embodiments, quality control can be omitted by issuing an instruction to check whether a termination command has been issued (in A19), provided the image of the embedded sample is stored in the folder (in B12a). Then, the analysis loop is either restarted if no termination command has been issued (in B19b), or the execution of the program code is terminated.

[0134] In these embodiments, the user can be notified of the successful documentation of the relevant block 18, i.e., of the non-discarding of the already saved images of block 18, by a signal as soon as the image of the embedded sample and the image from the area of ​​recording 102 are stored in the folder (in the case of B12a). The signal can be, for example, an acoustic or visual signal.

[0135] In the method 200 executed by the device 100, a termination command can be manually issued by a user at any time while the program code is being executed. If a termination command has been issued (at B19a), an instruction to disconnect the control unit 104 and the second camera 16 is given (at A20). If the second camera 16 has been disconnected (at B20a), an instruction to terminate the execution of the program code is given (at A22). If no termination command has been issued (at B19b), the analysis loop is restarted by issuing an instruction to the camera unit 12, or more precisely, in the case of device 100, to the first camera 14, to capture the image from the area of ​​the recording 102 (at A4).

[0136] In other preferred embodiments, a termination command can be automatically given by the control unit 104 if a condition is met, such as the expiry of a defined operating time during which no identification code has been recognized.

Claims

Patent claims 1. A device (10; 30; 100) for the automated acquisition of at least one image of a block (18) comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, the device (10; 30; 100) comprising: a receptacle (102) for the block (18), a camera unit (12) comprising at least one camera (14, 16), a control unit (104), the camera unit (12) being configured to repeatedly acquire an image from the region of the receptacle (102) and to send it to the control unit (104), the control unit (104) being configured to receive and analyze each image, the control unit (104) instructing the camera unit (12) to acquire at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18), provided the identification code has been recognized.

2. The device (10; 30; 100) of claim 1, wherein the camera unit (12) comprises at least a first camera (14) and a second camera (16), wherein the first camera (14) is configured to capture an image of the identification code and wherein the second camera (16) is configured to capture an image of the sample embedded in the block (18).

3. Device (10; 30; 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (104) is configured to instruct the camera unit (12) to capture the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18) only if the recognized identification code is not identical to the last previously recognized identification code.

4. Device (10; 30; 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (104) is further configured to discard the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18) if the identification code detected after capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18) is not identical to the identification code detected before capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18), or if no identification code is detected after capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18), or if an artifact is detected in the image after capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block.

5. The device (10; 30; 100) of claim 4, wherein the device (10; 30; 100) is further configured to emit an acoustic or visual signal if the identification code detected after capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18) is identical to the identification code detected before capturing the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18).

6. Device (10; 30; 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (10; 30; 100) further comprises a lighting unit (144) configured to illuminate the area of ​​the receptacle (102).

7. Device (10; 30; 100) according to claim 6, wherein the lighting unit (144) comprises exclusively diffuse light sources.

8. Device (10; 30; 100) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the illumination unit (144) comprises a first light source (146) which is provided to illuminate the identification code, or the identification code and the embedded sample. and a second light source (148) provided to illuminate the embedded sample.

9. Device (10; 30; 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shortest distance between two points of the outer boundary of the part of the device (10; 30; 100) which includes at least the receptacle (102) and the camera unit (12) is less than 40 cm, preferably less than 35 cm, more preferably less than 28 cm.

10. Device (10; 30; 100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (10; 30; 100) has a mirror system (34) reflecting the area of ​​the receptacle (102) to which the camera unit (12) is aligned.

11. A method (200) for the automated acquisition (A4, A9, A11, A13) of at least one image of a block (18) comprising a sample embedded for histological purposes and an identification code, the method (200) comprising the following steps in this order: acquiring (A4) an image from the region of the image (102), analyzing (A5) the image from the region of the image (102), repeating the preceding steps at least until the identification code is recognized (B5a), and acquiring (A9) at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18).

12. The method (200) according to claim 11, wherein the step of capturing (A9) at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18) is only performed when an identification code is detected which is not identical to the identification code which was last previously detected (B6a).

13. The method (200) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the method (200) comprises, after the step of capturing (A9) at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18), the following steps: capturing (A13) an image from the region of the recording (102), analyzing (A14) the image from the region of the recording (102), discarding (A16) the at least one image of the sample embedded in the block (18) embedded sample, unless the same identification code is detected again (B14b, B15b) or if an artefact is detected.

14. A computer program product containing program code means which, when executed on a computer, in particular a control unit (104), cause the control unit (104) to carry out the method (200) according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

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