Cutting operation device, microtome and method for a microtome

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cutting operation device (200) for a microtome, the cutting operation device (200) having one of a knife holder and a sample holder (202), the cutting operation device (200) having a position adjustment mechanism (210) capable of moving one of the knife holder and the sample holder (202) in a return operation (R), the cutting operation device (200) having an additional position adjustment device (220) different from the position adjustment mechanism (210), and the cutting operation device (200) being configured so that the additional position adjustment device (220) allows the position adjustment mechanism (210) to at least partially perform the return operation (R). The present invention also relates to a microtome and a method for a microtome.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cutting operation device for a microtome, a microtome and a method for forming sample sections using a microtome.

[0002] Background technology In the field of neuroscience, as well as in other fields, such as biology and medicine, electron microscopes can be used to examine thin sections of tissues or other samples or microscopic samples.These sections (or sample sections) can be cut out of sample blocks using a microtome and then placed on a sample carrier.In this case, due to the somewhat set flow in the microtome, the preparation of sample sections can sometimes be difficult or impractical.

[0003] summary Against this background, there is a need for an improved means for producing sections using a microtome. According to embodiments of the present invention, a cutting operation device for a microtome, a microtome, and a method for producing sample sections are proposed, which have the features of the respective independent claims. Advantageous configurations are the subject of the respective dependent claims and the following description.

[0004] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a cutting motion device for a microtome, particularly an ultramicrotome. Here, the cutting motion device comprises one of a knife holder and a specimen holder. The other of the two is typically part of a microtome in which the cutting motion device can be used. Furthermore, the cutting motion device comprises a position adjustment mechanism that can move one of the knife holder and the specimen holder in a return motion. Here, when the cutting motion device is used in or with a microtome, one of the knife holder and the specimen holder is particularly movable relative to the other. In one embodiment, the cutting motion device comprises a knife holder.

[0005] The cutting operation device also has an additional position adjustment device that is different from the position adjustment mechanism, i.e., the additional position adjustment device does not have any common components with the position adjustment mechanism. The cutting operation device is further configured so that the additional position adjustment device can cause the position adjustment mechanism to at least partially perform the return operation. In other words, the additional position adjustment device provides an additional means for at least partially enabling the return operation, especially independently of the position adjustment mechanism.

[0006] This allows intervention in the cutting process and interrupting it (by a return movement) even when this is not possible via the positioning mechanism itself, which allows the return movement to be performed at any time, or at least more frequently than only via the positioning mechanism itself.

[0007] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the additional positioning device is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position different from the first position. In this case, the cutting operation device is configured so that the positioning mechanism is not affected by the additional positioning device when the additional positioning device is moved to the first position. Furthermore, the cutting operation device is configured so that the positioning mechanism at least partially performs a return operation when the additional positioning device is moved to the second position. These two positions ensure that the additional positioning device acts on the positioning mechanism only when necessary, and when not necessary, the microtome can perform a normal cutting process.

[0008] According to another embodiment of the invention, the cutting movement device is configured such that the additional adjustment device can be brought into mechanical contact with the positioning mechanism when the additional adjustment device is moved into the second position in order to apply a force to the positioning mechanism to at least partially perform a return movement. Such a mechanical solution for forming an operative connection is particularly simple and functionally realizable, especially in positioning mechanisms that are generally provided for microtomes, where a mechanical movement flow is usually present anyway and which can then be influenced.

[0009] According to another embodiment of the invention, the additional positioning device has an actuator and is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position by actuation of the actuator, the actuator enabling a reliable and targeted actuation of the additional positioning device, so that the additional positioning device can act on the positioning mechanism.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the invention, the actuator has or is configured as an electric motor, in this way allowing for flexible and remote actuation of the additional positioning device, for example by means of a key or the like.

[0011] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the additional position adjustment device further includes a base body and a lever supported within the base body. The additional position adjustment device further includes a contact area that can mechanically contact the additional position adjustment device with the position adjustment mechanism. The contact area is formed on or operatively connected to the lever, and the lever can be operated using an actuator. Such a lever mechanism allows for simple force transmission from the actuator to the position adjustment mechanism.

[0012] According to another embodiment of the invention, the additional position adjustment device further comprises a connecting rod mechanism. In this case, the actuator and the lever are operatively connected to each other via the connecting rod mechanism, so that the lever can be operated by the actuator. Such a connecting rod mechanism allows for simple force transmission from the actuator to the position adjustment mechanism. In this way, it is possible to easily convert the rotational movement of the actuator (e.g., in the case of an electric motor) into a linear movement or another suitable movement for the lever.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the cutting operation device has an interface for an adjustment drive for the positioning device that is different from the additional positioning device, and is configured so that when the positioning device is operated via the interface, one of the knife holder and the specimen holder can be moved only within a set range of movement. The adjustment drive can, for example, have a hand wheel and / or a motor. The set range of movement includes a forward movement, a cutting movement, a return movement, and a reverse cutting movement. In particular, in this case, the above-mentioned movements must be performed in the above-mentioned order, and deviations from this order are not provided for in the positioning mechanism or are not possible by the positioning mechanism itself.

[0014] A typical microtome or its cutting arrangement has such a set flow of motion, which is generated, for example, by a mechanical implementation of the positioning mechanism, so that a reliable and repeatable cutting process can be achieved to produce precise specimen sections according to the purpose.

[0015] However, in the case of a specimen block having two block parts (so-called double stubs) in the cutting direction, as shown in the figure, it is not possible to cut only one of these two block parts, and the set movement sequence always requires that both block parts are cut, although an additional positioning device can be used to intervene in the set movement sequence, so that only one block part is repeatedly cut, and the other block part is not cut.

[0016] However, independent of such special sample blocks, the additional positioning device also allows for faster formation of multiple sample sections in normal sample blocks, since return movements can be performed always or at least more frequently, so that a complete circular execution of the operation flow is no longer necessary.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the invention, the cutting operation device is configured such that the position adjustment mechanism can cause the return operation to be at least partially performed by an additional position adjustment device if one of the knife holders and the specimen holder is not in a return operation within the range of the set operation flow, and if a return operation is indeed performed in any case within the range of the set operation flow, further triggering of the return operation is not performed or is no longer necessary.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the invention, the position adjustment mechanism has a return lever. The cutting operation device is configured so that a return operation is at least partially performed when the return lever is operated. Furthermore, the cutting operation device is configured so that an additional position adjustment device can be brought into contact with the return lever in order to cause the position adjustment mechanism to at least partially perform a return operation. In a position adjustment mechanism of this type with a return lever, the action of the additional position adjustment device on the return lever allows for a particularly simple implementation of performing the return operation.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the invention, the positioning mechanism further comprises a holder, on which one of the knife holder and the specimen holder is indirectly or directly arranged. The positioning mechanism is configured so that the holder is moved when performing the return movement. The cutting movement device is configured so that an additional positioning device can be brought into direct or indirect contact with the holder in order to cause the positioning mechanism to at least partially perform the return movement. In a positioning mechanism of this type with a holder for the knife holder or the specimen holder, the action of the additional positioning device on the holder allows for a particularly simple realization of performing the return movement.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the invention, the cutting operation device is configured in such a way that the additional positioning device can indirectly contact the holder via a return lever in order to at least partially cause the positioning mechanism to perform the return movement. With such an adjustment mechanism with a holder for the knife holder or specimen holder and a return lever, a particularly simple realization of the return movement is possible, since the additional positioning device acts on the holder via the return lever.

[0021] Another embodiment of the invention relates to a microtome having a cutting operation device according to the described embodiment, which also has the other of the knife holder and the sample holder, wherein the knife holder and the sample holder are movable relative to each other in a return movement by means of a position adjustment mechanism.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the invention, the microtome further comprises an adjustment drive, which is different from the additional positioning device and which has, for example, a hand wheel and / or a motor, and which is operatively connected to the positioning mechanism via an interface in such a way that, when the adjustment drive is operated, the knife holder and the specimen holder can be moved relative to one another only within a set range of movement.

[0023] Another embodiment of the invention relates to the use of an additional positioning device with a microtome having a knife holder, a sample holder, and a positioning mechanism by which the knife holder and the sample holder are movable relative to one another in a return movement. The additional positioning device is configured in this way to enable the positioning mechanism to at least partially perform the return movement. The additional positioning device and / or the microtome can be configured according to any of the specifically described embodiments.

[0024] With regard to the advantages and further embodiments of the microtome and its use, reference is made to the above description of the additional positioning device, which is correspondingly applicable in this specification.

[0025] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for forming a sample section using a microtome, the microtome comprising a knife holder, a sample holder, a positioning mechanism, and an adjustment drive. The knife holder and the sample holder are movable relative to one another in an advancing motion, a cutting motion, a return motion, and a reverse cutting motion by the positioning mechanism. The adjustment drive is operatively connected to the positioning mechanism such that, when the adjustment drive is operated, the knife holder and the sample holder are movable relative to one another only within a set range of motion, which includes the advancing motion, the cutting motion, the return motion, and the reverse cutting motion. A knife is or is arranged in the knife holder, and a sample block is or is arranged in the sample holder. The return motion is performed at least in part using an additional positioning device, if necessary, different from the positioning mechanism. The additional positioning device and / or the microtome can be configured according to any of the specifically described embodiments.

[0026] As already explained with respect to the additional positioning device, such a means of performing an additional return movement allows for faster and more flexible formation of sample sections.

[0027] According to another embodiment of the invention, the method comprises the following steps: performing a first execution of the cutting operation by operating the adjusting drive, thereby cutting a first sample section out of the sample block with the knife; performing a return operation by using the additional positioning device, thereby removing the sample block from the knife; performing a reverse cutting operation by operating the adjusting drive; and performing a second execution of the cutting operation by operating the adjusting drive, thereby cutting a second sample section out of the sample block with the knife, wherein intervention in the set operation flow is performed by the additional positioning device, which is only possible with the additional positioning device, in order to produce sample sections more quickly and flexibly.

[0028] According to another embodiment of the invention, the return movement is performed using an additional positioning device, after which the first cutting movement is completed according to the set movement sequence, i.e. the originally fixed movement sequence is interrupted for a specific purpose, which allows the sample slice to be formed more quickly.

[0029] According to another embodiment of the invention, the sample block has two block parts, and the sample block is arranged or positioned in the sample receiver so that the two block parts are positioned one after the other with respect to the cutting operation. Then, a first sample section is cut out from only one of the two block parts of the sample block, and nothing is cut out from the other of the two parts of the sample block during the first execution of the cutting operation. Here, an additional positioning device first makes it possible to form multiple sample sections from only one of the two parts without cutting out the other block part.

[0030] According to another embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first cutting operation and the second cutting operation is performed in a first direction by operating the adjusting drive, and the reverse cutting operation is performed in a second direction opposite to the first direction of the adjusting drive by operating the adjusting drive. In other words, the originally set rotation direction is reversed as required, thereby enabling the sample slices to be formed more quickly. This is also only possible with the additional position adjustment device.

[0031] The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be abbreviated as " / ".

[0032] Further advantages and configurations of the invention will become apparent from the description and accompanying drawings.

[0033] It is clear that the features mentioned above and those to be described below can be used not only in the respective combinations mentioned, but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0034] The invention is illustrated diagrammatically in the drawings by way of an embodiment and will be explained below with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1a] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a cutting operation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1b] 1b is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the cutting operation device of FIG. 1a. FIG. [Figure 2] 1A-1D are schematic views of a cutting operation device according to an embodiment of the present invention in two different positions; [Figure 3a] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a cutting operation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3b] 3b is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the cutting operation device of FIG. 3a. FIG. [Figure 4]1 is a schematic diagram of a microtome according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a sample block for explaining an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a method flow according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Detailed Description FIG. 1a shows a schematic perspective view of a cutting motion device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1b shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cutting motion device 100 of FIG. 1a. The following cross-sectional view will be taken through FIGS. 1a and 1b. The cutting motion device 100 can be used in or with a microtome. See FIG. 4 and the accompanying description for a description of how the cutting motion device 100 or another cutting motion device can be used in a microtome.

[0037] In one embodiment, the cutting operation device 100 has a specimen holder 102. A specimen block from which specimen sections are to be cut can be introduced and fixed in the specimen holder 102. A knife capable of cutting the specimen section can then be placed in the knife holder, which itself can be placed elsewhere in the microtome. Although this is a typical configuration for a microtome or a cutting operation device, the knife holder and specimen holder can be interchangeable. That is, the cutting operation device can also have a knife holder instead of a specimen holder.

[0038] The cutting operation device 100 has a position adjustment mechanism 110 by means of which the specimen holder 102 can be moved in a return movement R. By means of this return movement R, the specimen block can be moved away from the knife (not shown here) when placed in the specimen holder 102.

[0039] In one embodiment, the positioning mechanism 110 has a holder 114 on which the sample holder 102 is directly or indirectly disposed. In this case, the positioning mechanism 110 is configured to move the holder 114 when performing the return movement R. Since the sample holder 102 is directly or indirectly disposed on (or fixed to) the holder 114, movement of the holder 114 causes movement of the sample holder 102.

[0040] In one embodiment, the position adjustment mechanism 110 includes a return lever 112, in which case the cutting operation device 100 is configured to at least partially perform the return operation R when the return lever 112 is operated. In the illustrated embodiment, operation of the return lever 112 causes movement of the holder.

[0041] In one embodiment, the position adjustment mechanism 110 has an interface 116 for an adjustment drive 130 thereto. For example, the adjustment drive 130 has a hand wheel 132 and a motor or electric motor 134, which can act on a shaft or axle 136 of the adjustment drive. Rotation of the hand wheel 132 causes rotation of the axle 136, and likewise operation of the electric motor 134 causes rotation of the axle 136. The electric motor is here coupled to the axle 136, for example, via a belt 138.

[0042] It should be pointed out here that the adjusting drive 130 may comprise, for example, only the hand wheel 132 or only the electric motor 134. Also, a hand wheel may be provided that is not mechanically coupled to the shaft 136 but is electrically connected to the electric motor 134, for example via an encoder, so that rotation of the hand wheel results in a drive control of the electric motor.

[0043] For example, the interface 116 is configured as a mechanical interface for the shaft 136 of the adjustment drive 130, in particular as a sleeve for the shaft 136 or comprises a sleeve for the shaft 136. The position adjustment mechanism 110 in one embodiment comprises two cams 118.1, 118.2. The cams 118.1 and 118.2 may be connected to each other or may comprise the interface 116. This means that operation of the adjustment drive 130 rotates the two cams 118.1, 118.2 via the shaft 136. The cam 118.1 is operatively connected to the return lever 112, and the cam 118.2 is operatively connected to the support component 113 of the position adjustment mechanism 110.

[0044] The function of the position adjustment mechanism 110 will be explained below based on the embodiment of the cutting operation device 100 shown in Figures 1a and 1b. Operating the adjustment drive 130 (whether by means of a hand wheel 132 or an electric motor 134) causes rotation of the shaft 136. Rotation can take place in a first direction of rotation B1 or in a second, opposite direction B2. Rotation in only one direction of rotation, e.g., B1, results in a defined motion sequence. This motion sequence includes a forward motion V, a cutting motion S, a return motion R, and a reverse cutting motion G, which are shown in Figure 1b and are performed in this order.

[0045] The forward movement V moves the specimen block (not shown) in the specimen holder 102 in the direction towards the knife (not shown). This can be done, for example, by not lifting the return lever 112 by means of the cam 118.1, so that a preload force presses the holder 114 or the specimen holder 102 in the direction of the forward movement V (also called feed movement). Upon further rotation in the direction B1, the cam 118.2 lowers the support component 113 (possibly under the action of an appropriate preload force), so that the specimen block (not shown) is moved downwards in the specimen holder 102 towards the knife (not shown), i.e. a cutting movement S is performed to form specimen sections.

[0046] Upon further rotation in direction B1, the cam 118.1 causes the return lever 112 to be lifted at its first end 112.1, which in turn causes the return lever 112 to rotate about the bearing axis or bearing 112.3, and the second end 112.2 of the return lever 112 acts on the holder 114, moving the holder 114 in the direction of return movement R. This causes the specimen block (not shown) in the specimen holder 102 to perform the return movement R.

[0047] Upon further rotation in direction B1, cam 118.2 raises support component 113, which moves the sample block (not shown) upward in sample holder 102, i.e., performs a reverse cutting operation G. Upon further rotation in direction B1, the above-described operation sequence is repeated, possibly with the sample block (not shown) being moved slightly further forward in sample holder 102 within the forward movement V if a sample section is to be formed at the same location. Similarly, it is possible to shift the sample block and knife slightly laterally, thereby forming a sample section at another location. It should be noted that upon rotation in direction B2, the operation sequence is performed in reverse, although a sample section cannot normally be formed here because the movement is performed in the opposite direction, i.e., the cutting operation is performed in the opposite direction, i.e., a reverse cutting operation is performed.

[0048] The cutting operation device 100 further comprises an additional position adjustment device 120, which is different from the position adjustment mechanism 110, in particular different from the adjustment drive 130, and which does not act on the interface 116. The cutting operation device 100 is configured such that, by means of the additional position adjustment device 120, the position adjustment mechanism 110 can at least partially perform a return movement R. The return movement R is in particular the above-mentioned return movement of the specimen holder 102 or of a specimen block inserted in the specimen holder 102.

[0049] In one embodiment, the additional position adjustment device 120 is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position different from the first position. The cutting operation device 100 is configured such that the position adjustment mechanism 110 is not affected by the additional position adjustment device 120 when the additional position adjustment device 120 is moved to the first position. This situation is shown in Figures 1a and 1b. Furthermore, the cutting operation device is configured to cause the position adjustment mechanism 110 to at least partially perform the return operation R when the additional position adjustment device 120 is moved to the second position.

[0050] In one embodiment, the additional position adjustment device 120 comprises a lever 122, which is supported, for example, on a base (not shown here). Via a contact area on the lever 122, the additional position adjustment device 120 can be in mechanical contact with the position adjustment mechanism 110, in particular with the return lever 112, preferably with the second end 112.2 of the return lever 112. This allows the additional position adjustment device 120 to also indirectly contact the holder 114.

[0051] As a result, the return lever 112 can be operated within the range of the movement flow set via the cam 118.1 or the adjusting drive 130 and the interface 116, on the one hand, and also independently therefrom via the additional position adjusting device 120. This means that regardless of its current position in the movement flow, the return lever 112 can be operated using the additional position adjusting device 120, and thus the return movement R can be initiated. The return lever 112 is likewise rotated around the fulcrum 112.3 by means of the additional position adjusting device 120.

[0052] It should be pointed out here that if a return movement is to be performed anyway within the scope of the movement flow or at the end of it, the operation of the additional position adjustment device 120 may have no effect, but this is harmless to the functionality, since, despite this configuration, a return movement R can be intentionally performed as needed in all other situations.

[0053] 2, a cutting operation device 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown schematically in two different positions (upper and lower). The cutting operation device 200 may be, for example, the cutting operation device 100 shown in FIGS. 1a and 1b, but here the cutting operation device 200 is shown somewhat simplified from FIGS. 1a and 1b in order to explain the basic functioning scheme of the additional position adjustment device 220.

[0054] The cutting operation device 200 is shown here with a specimen holder 202 and a positioning mechanism 210 with the holder 114 and the return lever 112, which can cooperate essentially in the same way as described for the cutting operation device 100. Also shown here is a specimen block 204 arranged or fixed in the specimen holder 202. Also shown is a knife 240, which does not necessarily have to be part of the cutting operation device 200 but may suitably be arranged in, for example, a microtome (not shown here).

[0055] 2, the additional position adjustment device 220 has been moved to a first position P1. In the first position P1, the position adjustment mechanism 210 is not affected by the additional position adjustment device 220. For this reason, the additional position adjustment device 220, and in particular the lever 222, can be prevented from coming into contact with the position adjustment mechanism 210 or its return lever 212. However, basically, the lever 212 can come into contact with the return lever 212 as long as no force is being applied to the return lever 212, or at least there is not enough force to operate the return lever 212.

[0056] In the lower view of Figure 2, the additional position adjustment device 220 is shown in a second position P2. Movement of the additional position adjustment device 220 to the second position P2 triggers the position adjustment mechanism 210 to perform the return movement R by the additional position adjustment device 220. In one embodiment, the cutting operation device 200 is configured such that the additional position adjustment device 220 can be brought into mechanical contact with (and in this embodiment is moved into) the position adjustment mechanism 210 when the additional position adjustment device 220 is moved into the second position P2 to apply a force to the position adjustment mechanism 210 to at least partially perform the return movement R. This is exemplarily shown in Figure 2.

[0057] As long as the additional positioning device 220 is in the second position P2, the positioning mechanism remains in that position, i.e. the specimen block 204 or specimen holder 202 remains moved away from the knife 240. When the additional positioning device 220 is again moved to the first position P1, the positioning mechanism 210 can be returned again to the position it was in before the operation of the additional positioning device 220. This is particularly true if at least the positioning mechanism 210 has not been operated via the adjustment drive in the meantime.

[0058] Fig. 3a shows a schematic perspective view of a cutting operation device 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention, with a portion thereof shown enlarged. Fig. 3b shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cutting operation device 300 of Fig. 3a. Figs. 3a and 3b will be described below in detail. The cutting operation device 300 may be, for example, the cutting operation device 100 according to Figs. 1a and 1b or the cutting operation device 200 according to Fig. 2, but here most of the additional position adjustment device 320 of the cutting operation device 300 is shown in more detail in order to explain the functioning scheme of the cutting operation device 300 in more detail.

[0059] The position adjustment mechanism 310 of the cutting operation device 300 is shown here, for example, with a return lever 312 having a first end 312.1, a second end 312.2 and a support 312.3, a holder 314, an interface 316 and a cam 318.1, which allows a set operation sequence to be carried out as already described with reference to Figures 1a, 1b and 2.

[0060] In one embodiment, the additional position adjustment device 320 includes a base 328 and a lever 322 supported within the base 328. The additional position adjustment device 320 further includes an actuator 326 configured as, for example, an electric motor, and a connecting rod mechanism 324. The actuator 326 and the lever 322 are operatively connected to each other via the connecting rod mechanism 324, so that the lever 322 can be operated by the actuator 326. The actuator 326 may be disposed or attached to the base 328 either indirectly or directly.

[0061] In this case, the connecting rod mechanism 324 may have an eccentric component 324.1, by means of which the connecting rod mechanism 324 is arranged on the actuator 326 or on its axis. In turn, the connecting rod mechanism 324 is connected via a coupling component 324.2 to a first end 322.1 of the lever 322, which is likewise supported on the base 328 at a bearing or via (e.g., using) a bearing axis 322.3. By means of the connecting rod mechanism 324, the rotational movement of the actuator 326 can be converted into an operation of the lever 322, so that the actuator 326 can be moved back and forth between a first position and a second position.

[0062] The lever 322 (and thus the additional position adjustment device 320) has a contact area 322.2 at its second end, which allows the lever 322 (and thus the additional position adjustment device 320) to contact the return lever 312 or the second end 322.2 (and thus the position adjustment mechanism 310) at that position. This allows actuation of the lever 322 by the actuator 326 to at least partially cause the position adjustment mechanism 310 to perform a return movement. In this case, the lever 322 presses, i.e. comes into mechanical contact with, the second end 312.2 of the return lever 312 with the contact area 322.2, which in turn presses against, for example, a peg or pin 315 of the holder 314, thereby actuating the peg or pin 315.

[0063] To be able to operate the additional position adjustment device 320 as required to bring about a return movement, for example a key or another operating element (not shown here) can be provided which, when operated, rotates the actuator 316 by a set value, thereby transferring the additional position adjustment device 320 (by actuation of the actuator) from the first position to the second position. Depending on the design, for example, it can be configured such that when the operating element is further operated, the actuator 316 is rotated by another set value in order to transfer the additional position adjustment device 320 from the second position back to the first position.

[0064] 4 shows a schematic representation of a microtome 401 according to an embodiment of the invention. The microtome 401 comprises a cutting device 400 with a specimen holder 402. A specimen block 404 is inserted into the specimen holder 402. The microtome 401 further comprises a knife holder 442 with a knife 440 inserted therein and, for example, a hand wheel 432 as an adjustment drive. The hand wheel 432 allows the cutting device 400 to be operated, so that the specimen block 404 or specimen holder 402 and the knife 440 or knife holder 442 can be moved relative to one another.

[0065] The cutting operation device 400 may be, for example, the cutting operation device shown in Figures 1a, 1b, 2 and 3, so please refer to the description of the above-mentioned embodiments for a description of the cutting operation device 400. Furthermore, the microtome 401 has, for example, a key 450 by means of which an additional position adjustment device 420 of the cutting operation device 400 can be operated.

[0066] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a specimen block 504 for illustrating an embodiment of the invention. Specimen sections can be cut from the specimen block 504 using a microtome, for example, as described in relation to Fig. 4. For this purpose, the specimen block 504 can be introduced into a specimen holder, also as described above.

[0067] The sample block 504 shown here has a first block part 504.1 and a second block part 504.2. To form the sample sections, the sample block is or can be arranged in the sample holder of the microtome so that the two block parts 504.1 and 504.2 are positioned one after the other with respect to the cutting operation S, as shown in FIG. 5. Such a sample block having two block parts can be used, for example, to allow various samples to be introduced into one sample block, or in particular, to prevent the introduction of a sample into one of the two block parts, typically the second block part 504.2. In this case, a so-called blank section is formed in the second block part 504.2.

[0068] In a microtome with a cutting device in which the above-described operational flow is set, this first leads to the formation of a specimen section in the first block part 504.1. As the operational flow continues, a specimen section is necessarily formed by the second block part 504.2, after which, during a new execution of the movement sequence, a specimen section in the first block part 504.1 can be formed again, for example. Thus, two or more successive specimen sections in the first block part 504.1 without an intermediate specimen section in the second block part 504.2 cannot be formed in each case without interrupting the operational flow, for example without separately placing the specimen block in the specimen holder.

[0069] In contrast, this is possible using a microtome that is provided with the aforementioned additional positioning device. Thus, a sample section can be formed from the first block part 504.1, the movement flow can then be stopped, and a return movement R can be performed using the additional positioning device. A reverse cutting movement can then be performed to return the sample block, and after the additional positioning device is disconnected, i.e., connected to the first position, the sample section can be formed again from the first block part 504.1. In this case, the reverse cutting movement can be performed, for example, by rotating the hand wheel in the opposite direction.

[0070] FIG. 6 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method according to one embodiment of the present invention. For this purpose, a microtome equipped with a cutting operation device can be used, as explained above with reference to the various embodiments. In this case, the knife holder and the specimen holder can be moved relative to one another in a forward movement, a cutting movement, a return movement, and a reverse cutting movement by means of a position adjustment mechanism. The adjustment drive is operatively connected to the position adjustment mechanism so that, during its operation, the knife holder and the specimen holder can be moved relative to one another only within a set range of movement, which includes the forward movement, the cutting movement, the return movement, and the reverse cutting movement. To form a specimen section, a knife is or is arranged in the knife holder, and a specimen block is or is arranged in the specimen holder. In this case, the return movement can be performed at least partially using an additional position adjustment device, if necessary, that is different from the position adjustment mechanism.

[0071] This may include, in particular, the following steps: In step 600, a first execution of a cutting operation is performed by operating the adjustment drive, whereby a first sample section is cut out of the sample block with the knife. For this purpose, the adjustment drive can be rotated, for example, in a first direction or rotational direction, for example as shown in FIG. 1a by reference B1.

[0072] In step 602, a return operation is performed using the additional position adjustment device, thereby removing the sample block from the knife. The return operation using the additional position adjustment device is performed here, in particular, before the first execution of the cutting operation is completed according to the set operation flow. In other words, as described in relation to FIG. 5, the cutting operation is not performed completely. Then, a first sample slice is cut from only one of the two block portions of the sample block, and not from the other of the two block portions of the sample block during the first execution of the cutting operation (step 602).

[0073] In step 604, a reverse cutting operation is performed by operating the adjustment drive. The reverse cutting operation here is performed in particular in a second direction opposite to the first direction of the adjustment drive, as shown, for example, in Fig. 1a by reference B2. This means that the movement previously performed as a cutting operation is performed in the opposite direction, thus resulting in a reverse cutting operation, in which the sample block is removed from the knife and repositioned due to the return movement performed.

[0074] In step 606, a second execution of the cutting operation is performed by operating the adjustment drive, whereby a second sample section is cut out of the sample block using the knife, in particular by rotating the adjustment drive again in a first direction or rotational direction, for example as shown by reference B1 in Figure 1a.

[0075] The additional positioning device thus allows the set motion sequence to be interrupted so that the specimen block can be returned by rotating in the opposite direction and then follow the set motion sequence again. In this case, one can also speak of so-called short strokes, since it is not necessary to go through the motion sequence completely (perform the full stroke). [Explanation of symbols]

[0076] 100,200,300,400 Cutting operation device 102,202,402 Sample holder 110,210,310 Position adjustment mechanism 112,212,312 Return lever 112.1, 312.1 First side of return lever 112.2,312.2 Second side of return lever 112.3,312.3 Return lever bearing shaft 113 Supporting Components 114,214,314 Holder 116,316 interfaces 118.1,118.2,318.1 Cam 120,220,320,420 Additional positioning devices 122,222,322 Lever 130 Adjustment drive unit 132,432 Handwheel 134 Electric Motor 136 axes 138 Belt 204,504 sample blocks 240,540 knives 315 Holder Peg 322.1 First end of lever 322.2 Contact area 322.3 Lever bearing shaft 324 Connecting rod mechanism 324.1 Eccentric Components 324.2 Connection Components 326 Actuator 401 Microtome 442 Knife Holder 450 keys 504.1, 504.2 Block portion of sample block 600~606 Method steps P1,P2 position B1,B2 direction V Forward movement S Cutting operation R Return movement G Reverse cutting operation

Claims

1. A cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) for a microtome (401), comprising: the cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) has one of a knife holder (442) and a sample holder (102, 202, 402); the cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) has a position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) capable of moving one of the knife holder (442) and the sample holder (102, 202, 402) in a return operation (R); The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) has an additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320, 420) different from the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310), The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured to allow the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return operation (R) by the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320, 420). Cutting action device (100, 200, 300, 400).

2. the additional position adjustment device (120) is configured to be movable between a first position (P1) and a second position (P2) different from the first position; the cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured such that when the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) is moved to the first position (P1), the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) is not affected by the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320); the cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured to cause the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return operation (R) when the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) is moved to the second position (P2).

2. The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) of claim 1.

3. 3. The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) of claim 2, wherein the cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured such that when the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) is moved to the second position (P2), the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) is capable of mechanically contacting the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to apply a force to the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return operation (R).

4. 4. The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the additional position adjustment device (320) has an actuator (326) and is configured to be movable between the first position (P1) and the second position (P2) by actuation of the actuator (326).

5. The cutting motion device (100, 200, 300, 400) of claim 4, wherein the actuator (326) comprises or is configured as an electric motor.

6. The additional position adjustment device (320) further includes a base (328) and a lever (122, 222, 322) supported on the base, the additional position adjustment device (320) has a contact area (322.2) and can be brought into mechanical contact with the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) by means of the contact area (322.2); the contact area (322.2) is formed on or operatively connected to the lever (122, 222, 322), The lever (122, 222, 322) is operable by the actuator (326). A cutting operation device (100) according to claims 3 and 4 or 5.

7. The additional position adjustment device (310) further comprises a connecting rod mechanism (324); The actuator (326) and the lever (122, 222, 322) are operatively connected to each other via the connecting rod mechanism (324), thereby allowing the lever (122, 222, 322) to be operated by the actuator (326).

7. A cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 6.

8. the cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) has an interface (116, 316) for an adjustment drive (130) for the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310), which is different from the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320), and is configured such that when the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) is operated via the interface (116, 316), one of the knife holder (442) and the specimen holder (102, 202, 420) can move only within a set range of operation flow, The set operation flow includes a forward operation (V), a cutting operation (S), a return operation (R) and a reverse cutting operation (G), A cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. 9. The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 8, wherein the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) is configured to cause the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return operation (R) when one of the knife holder (442) and the specimen holder (102, 202, 402) is not in the return operation within a set range of operation flow.

10. the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) has a return lever (112, 212, 312), and the cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured such that a return operation (R) is at least partially performed when the return lever (112, 212, 312) is operated; The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured such that the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) is brought into contact with the return lever (112, 212, 312) to cause the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return operation (R). A cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) further includes a holder (114, 214, 314), and one of the knife holder and the sample holder (102, 202, 402) is indirectly or directly disposed on the holder (114, 214, 314); the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) is configured to move the holder (114, 214, 314) when a return motion (R) is performed; The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured so that the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) can be brought into indirect or direct contact with the holder (114, 214, 314) in order to cause the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return operation (R). A cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) is configured such that the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320) can indirectly contact the holder (114, 214, 314) via the return lever (112, 212, 312) to cause the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return operation (R).

13. A microtome (401), A cutting operation device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and the other of a knife holder (442) and a specimen holder (102, 202, 402), The knife holder (442) and the sample holder (102, 202, 402) are movable relative to each other in a return movement (R) by a position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310). Microtome (401).

14. The microtome (401) further comprises an adjustment drive (130) different from the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320, 420), the adjustment drive (130) is operatively connected to the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) via an interface (116, 316) such that, when the adjustment drive (130) is operated, the knife holder (442) and the specimen holder (102, 202, 402) can move relative to each other only within a set range of motion flow. The microtome (401) according to claim 13.

15. Use of an additional positioning device (120, 220, 320, 420) with a microtome (401), the microtome (401) has a knife holder (442), a sample holder (102, 202, 402), and a position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310), and the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) allows the knife holder (442) and the sample holder (102, 202, 420) to move relative to each other in a return motion (R); the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320, 420) is configured to allow the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) to at least partially perform a return movement (R); use.

16. A method for forming a sample section using a microtome (401), comprising: The microtome (401) has a knife holder (442), a sample holder (102, 202, 402), a position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310), and an adjustment drive unit (130); the knife holder (442) and the specimen holder (102, 202, 402) are movable relative to each other in a forward motion (V), a cutting motion (S), a return motion (R), and a reverse cutting motion (G) by the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310); the adjustment drive (130) is operatively connected to the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) such that, when the adjustment drive (130) is operated, the knife holder (442) and the specimen holder (102, 202, 402) are movable relative to each other only within a range of a set motion flow, wherein the set motion flow includes the forward motion (V), the cutting motion (S), the return motion (R), and the reverse cutting motion (G); a knife (440, 540) is or is disposed in the knife holder (442), and a sample block (204, 504) is or is disposed in the sample holder (102, 202, 402); The return movement (R) is at least partially performed using an additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320, 420) different from the position adjustment mechanism (110, 210, 310) as needed. method.

17. The method comprises: performing a first execution of a cutting operation (600) by operating the adjustment drive (130), thereby cutting a first sample section from the sample block (204, 504) using the knife (440); performing a return movement (R) using the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320, 420) to remove the sample block (204, 504) from the knife (240, 540); performing (604) the reverse cutting operation (G) by operating the adjusting drive (130); performing a second execution of the cutting operation (S) by operating the adjustment drive (130), thereby cutting (606) a second sample section from the sample block (204, 504) using the knife (240, 540); 17. The method of claim 16, comprising:

18. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein a return operation (R) is performed (602) using the additional position adjustment device (120, 220, 320, 420), after which the first execution of the cutting operation is completed according to a set operation flow.

19. the sample block (504) has two block parts (504.1, 504.2) and is arranged or is disposed in the sample receiving part so that the two block parts (504.1, 504.2) are positioned one after the other with respect to the cutting operation (S); the first sample section is cut from only one block portion (504.1) of the two block portions of the sample block, and during the first execution (600) of the cutting operation (S), nothing is cut out from the other of the two parts (504.2) of the sample block; 19. The method of claim 17 or 18.

20. At least one of the first execution of the cutting operation (S) and the second execution of the cutting operation is performed in a first direction (B1) by operating the adjustment drive (130), The reverse cutting operation (G) is performed by operating the adjusting drive (130) in a second direction (B2) opposite to the first direction of the adjusting drive, 20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19.

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