Slide imaging apparatus and method for imaging slides - Patents.com

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a slide imaging device (110) and a method (210) for imaging a plurality of slides (140), wherein the slide imaging device (110) comprises at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and at least one second imaging device (128, 128'), each configured to generate an image (162) of a sample mounted on the slide (140), a storage device (118) capable of receiving the plurality of slides (140) and configured to store the slides (140), and a supply device (120) configured to selectively supply the slides (140) from the storage device (118) to the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') or the at least one second imaging device (128, 128'), At least one first imaging device (126, 126') and at least one second imaging device (128, 128') are provided with at least one visual indicator configured to indicate the operating status of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and at least one second imaging device (128, 128'), and the slide imaging device (110) further includes at least one vision sensor (166) configured to detect the operating status of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and at least one second imaging device (128, 128') using the at least one visual indicator. The slide imaging device (110) and method (210) for imaging a plurality of slides (140) enable improved processing of the slides (140) in the event of a failure of any one of the imaging devices (126, 128; 126', 128'), and the improved processing of the slides (140) avoids manual handling of the slides (140) in the event of a failure of any one of the imaging devices (126, 128; 126', 128').

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a slide imager and method for imaging a plurality of slides, where the slide imager can preferably be used in digital pathology, however further uses are feasible. [Background technology]

[0002] A slide imager comprises an imager configured to generate an image of a slide-mounted sample. The images generated by modern imagers are usually digital images, and therefore such images may be referred to as "digital slides". Typically, the slide-mounted sample is a biological specimen, such as a tissue sample. Typically, the slide is a glass slide. Typically, slide imagers are used in digital pathology, which can be understood as an image-based information environment that allows for the management of information generated from digital slides.

[0003] If the imaging device can generate an image that can cover most or the complete surface of the slide, for example by using a scanning process, the corresponding slide imaging device may be called a "full slide imaging" device. The slide imaging device can generate an image of the sample mounted on the slide using a 2D (two-dimensional) camera or a line scan detector. Examples of slide imaging devices are described, for example, in EP 00534247, EP 0245089, US 6118582, US 6522774, US 6640014, US 6711283, US 7682573, WO 2013 / 017855, US 8712116 and US 9116035.

[0004] In general, imaging devices have a processing capacity of between 1 and 1,000 slides simultaneously. Typically, a distinction can be made between imaging devices with low throughput, which relates to the simultaneous processing of less than 10 slides, and imaging devices with high throughput, which refers to the simultaneous processing of more than 100 slides, and thus an imaging device configured to simultaneously process 10 to 100 slides can be indicated as an imaging device with medium throughput. To charge an imaging device with one or more slides, the individual slides are typically manually inserted into a slide repository, in particular selected from a slide tray or a slide rack, and are then introduced into the imaging device to generate the desired image of the sample mounted on the slide.

[0005] However, in conventional slide imaging devices, after a failure occurs in the corresponding imaging device, it is common for the processing of slides to stop until the failure is repaired. As a result, the stoppage of the processing of slides can lead to a complete stop of the entire process performed in pathology unless a backup imaging device can be used. However, the backup imaging device generally leads to a delay in the processing of slides that have not yet been processed and are already charged in the failed imaging device. Rather, slides that are already inserted in the slide receiving section of the imaging device must be removed from the slide receiving section of the imaging device and manually introduced into the backup imaging device. As an example, a particular imaging device with a high throughput is charged by 360 slides, but a failure occurs already after 60 slides. As a result, the remaining 300 slides that cannot be further processed in the particular imaging device need to be manually transferred to the backup imaging device. Such an outcome can be particularly detrimental in the overnight processing of slides, thus resulting in a delay in the next day's procedure in pathology.

[0006] WO 2019 / 097523 discloses a microscope system including a plurality of microscope modules, a cassette for holding a plurality of slides, a slide loader configured to move the plurality of slides between the cassette and the plurality of microscope modules, and a processor coupled to the slide loader. The processor can be configured with instructions that, when executed, cause the slide loader to move a slide to or from a selected one of the plurality of microscope modules. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.

[0007] US 2007 / 057106 discloses a configurable slide imaging system including a plurality of slide cassettes, each configured to accessibly store a plurality of specimen slides, a plurality of imagers, each operatively coupled to one or more processors for processing images obtained from a respective specimen slide retrieved from the storage cassette, and a slide transport system including a movable arm having a slide engagement mechanism, configured to retrieve slides from the slide cassettes, position the slides on a slide stage of a respective imager, retrieve slides from the slide stage of the imager, and transport the slides to a respective storage cassette. The number of imagers can be selected and their operation synchronized to minimize downtime of the telescopic arm.

[0008] EP 3324190 A1 discloses an apparatus including first and second imaging modules, a storage module, an automated transport module operable to transport at least one slide, and a controller operable to direct the transport of the at least one slide by the transport module into the first imaging module and into the second imaging module. Also disclosed is a method and a machine-readable medium including program instructions for causing the controller to execute a method including transporting at least one slide to the first imaging module using the automated transport module, capturing an image of a sample on the at least one slide by the first imaging module, transporting at least one slide to the storage module using the automated transport module, and transporting the at least one slide to the second imaging module in response to a request to capture an image in addition to the image captured by the first imaging module.

[0009] DE 102013205001 discloses an arrangement with an inspection unit configured for optical detection of a sample area, the inspection unit comprising a microscope. A further inspection unit is provided with a further microscope, spatially separated from the former inspection unit. A positioning unit is provided, in which a probe is conveyed by the former inspection unit in the optical detection area of ​​the latter inspection unit after the optical detection of the sample area. The sample area is optically detected by the latter inspection unit. Furthermore, a method for optical detection of a sample area on a section, in particular on a sample, is disclosed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] European Patent No. 00534247 [Patent Document 2] European Patent Application Publication No. 0245089 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 6,118,582 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 6,522,774 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 6,640,014 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 6,711,283 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 7,682,573 [Patent Document 8] International Publication No. 2013 / 017855 [Patent Document 9] U.S. Patent No. 8,712,116 [Patent Document 10] U.S. Patent No. 9,116,035 [Patent Document 11] International Publication No. 2019 / 097523 [Patent Document 12] US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 057106 [Patent Document 13] European Patent Application Publication No. 3324190 [Patent Document 14] German Patent No. 102013205001 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] It is therefore desirable to provide a slide imaging device and method for imaging multiple slides that allows for uninterrupted processing of slides processed in the imaging device, where the slides are provided to be introduced into a slide receiving portion of the imaging device.

[0012] In particular, it is desirable to enable improved processing of slides in the event of a failure of the imaging device, the failure including ceasing processing of slides by the imaging device. In particular, it is desirable herein for improved processing of slides to avoid manual manipulation of slides upon failure of the imaging device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The aforementioned problem is addressed by a slide imaging device and a method for imaging a plurality of slides with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments, which may be realized in either a single aspect or in any combination, are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0014] When used below, the terms "having", "comprises" or "including" or any grammatical variants thereof are used inclusively. Thus, these terms may refer both to the situation where, in addition to the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present in the entity described in this context, and to the situation where one or more additional features are present. As an example, the expressions "A has B", "A comprises B" and "A includes B" may both refer to the situation where, apart from B, no other elements are present in A (i.e., A consists solely and exclusively of B), and to the situation where, apart from B, one or more further elements are present in the entity A, such as element C, elements C and D, and even further elements.

[0015] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms "at least one," "one or more," or similar expressions indicating that a feature or element may be present one or more times are typically used only once when introducing each feature or element. In the following, in most cases, when referring to each feature or element, the expressions "at least one" or "one or more" will not be repeated, despite the fact that each feature or element may be present one or more than one time.

[0016] Furthermore, when used below, the terms "preferably", "more preferably", "particularly", "more particularly", "particularly", "more specifically" or similar terms are used in conjunction with any feature without limiting the possibility of substitution. Thus, the features introduced by these terms are optional features and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. The invention may be implemented by using alternative features, as recognized by those skilled in the art. Similarly, features introduced by "in an embodiment of the invention" or similar expressions are intended to be optional features without limitations on alternative embodiments of the invention, without limitations on the scope of the invention, and without limitations on the possibility of combining the feature introduced in such a way with other optional or non-optional features of the invention.

[0017] Disclosed and proposed herein is a slide imaging device. The term "slide" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its normal and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term can specifically, but not limited to, refer to a substrate designated for a sample to be mounted on the surface of the slide. The term "sample" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its normal and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term can specifically, but not limited to, refer to a biological specimen such as a tissue sample. However, other types of samples may be feasible.

[0018] In particular, for the purpose of carrying a sample without any changes to the slide during processing, the substrate can comprise any material that is mechanically stable and thus provides sufficient mechanical stability. In particular, for the purpose of carrying a biological specimen, the substrate can preferably present a surface that is configured to be compatible with biological materials. By way of example, the slide is a glass slide, since glass is known to provide sufficient mechanical stability on the one hand and to have high compatibility with biological materials on the other hand. However, further types of materials for the slide can also be feasible.

[0019] Moreover, the slide may have a form that may allow imaging of the sample mounted thereon, among other things. The terms "imaging" or "generating an image" as used herein are broad terms and should be given their normal and customary meaning to those skilled in the art, and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. These terms may specifically refer to, but are not limited to, providing a 2D two-dimensional representation of at least one characteristic of the sample, also indicated by the term "image", where the image may be processed and displayed on a screen, typically as seen by the observer's eye, apart from, and preferably without further assistance from, the observer's glasses. For this purpose, an imaging device, as described in more detail above, is typically used.

[0020] Additionally, the terms "apparatus" and "slide imaging apparatus" as used herein are broad terms and should be given their ordinary and customary meaning to those of skill in the art and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. These terms can specifically, but are not limited to, refer to an apparatus having multiple components as disclosed in more detail below.

[0021] In particular, the slide imaging device at least one first imaging device and at least one second imaging device, each configured to generate an image of a sample mounted on a slide; a storage device capable of receiving a plurality of slides and configured to store the slides; and a supply device configured to selectively supply slides from the storage device to the first imaging device or the second imaging device.

[0022] Thus, the slide imaging device comprises at least one first imaging device and at least one second imaging device, each of the first and second imaging devices being configured to generate an image of a sample mounted on a slide independently of the other. The term "imaging device" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term may specifically, but not exclusively, refer to a device designated to generate a 2D representation of at least one visual characteristic of a sample. In particular, the imaging device may be selected from a 2D camera or a line scan detector. However, further types of imaging devices may also be feasible. Thus, the slide imaging device according to the present invention may comprise two, three, four, five, six or more individual imaging devices, each of which may be individually addressed by a supply device, as disclosed in more detail below. Here, the further imaging devices may be maintained as further back-up options, in particular in case more than one imaging device fails.

[0023] For the purpose of generating the desired image of the sample, the slide may preferably be a plate having a 2D extension and a thickness, the 2D extension of the plate may preferably exhibit a rectangular or circular form, and the thickness of the plate may be small compared to the size of the extension, preferably 20%, more preferably 10%, in particular 5% or less than the measure of the linear extent of the 2D extension of the plate.

[0024] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" as used herein are broad terms and should be given their ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. These terms can specifically, but not limited to, refer to two individual imaging devices without rank or order, and thus these terms can be interchanged. Here, the two individual imaging devices can preferably comprise two copies of the same type of imaging device, or can comprise two different types of imaging devices.

[0025] The slide imaging device further comprises a storage device capable of being loaded with a plurality of slides and configured to store the slides. For the term "slide", reference may be made to the definition provided above. The term "storage device" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its normal and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term may specifically refer to, but is not limited to, an individual slide holder or a slide repository designated to simultaneously receive more than one slide holder, each slide holder configured to hold more than one slide. In a preferred embodiment, the storage device may comprise at least two compartments, each compartment configured to store a portion of the slides. Herein, the compartments may comprise at least two adjacently arranged rows, thus storing the slides adjacent to each other. In particular, the storage device may be selected from a slide tray or a slide rack, although further types of storage devices may also be feasible. However, further types of arrangements of slides and / or slide holders, respectively, within the storage device may also be feasible. Thus, the storage device may be preferably manually loadable with a plurality of slides, although automatic loading of the storage device may also be envisaged.

[0026] The slide imaging device further comprises a feeder configured to selectively feed the slide from the storage device to the first imaging device or the second imaging device. The term "feeder" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term can specifically, but not limited to, refer to a device configured to selectively transfer the slide from the storage device to the first imaging device and the second imaging device. To this end, the feeder can comprise a robotic arm. The term "robotic arm" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term can specifically, but not limited to, refer to a programmable mechanical unit having at least one form of a hand or arm and configured to move in a manner similar to a hand or arm, using an electric and / or pneumatic drive, including, but not limited to, gripping at least one object, particularly a slide or slide holder, and transporting it to a defined destination.

[0027] This type of configuration of the slide imaging apparatus as disclosed herein is therefore in contrast to known slide imaging apparatuses in which a single slide or slide holder is loaded with one or more slides and then introduced into the imaging apparatus to generate a desired image of the sample mounted on at least one slide. In the slide imaging apparatus as disclosed herein, in contrast to known slide imaging apparatuses, a plurality of slides are loaded into a storage apparatus, and the slides are stored until selectively fed from the storage apparatus to at least one first imaging apparatus or at least one second imaging apparatus, and an image of the sample mounted on the slide is generated. Here, selectively feeding the slides from the storage apparatus to the first imaging apparatus and the second imaging apparatus is preferably performed in an automated manner. The terms "in an automated manner" and "automatically" as used herein are broad terms and should be given their ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. These terms can specifically, but not limited to, refer to a type of processing that is performed without direct interaction of a user of the slide imaging apparatus, based on an algorithm configured to perform the transfer of slides without manual execution by the user. Furthermore, the term "alternatively" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and customary meaning to those of skill in the art and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. The term can specifically, but is not limited to, refer to a method of deciding between two or more options, where the decision is made by a predetermined algorithm.

[0028] In particular, the decision may be made in an automated manner by an operating system, the operating system included in the slide imaging device being configured to share the scanning of multiple slides according to a predefined algorithm, which may be based on the following principles: sharing the scanning of multiple slides, preferably in an equal manner, between the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device, in particular to obtain a similar utilization rate of the imaging devices, so long as both the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device are available; However, scanning multiple slides within a single available imaging device, in order to avoid stopping the scanning procedure, especially in case of failure of a particular imaging device; The scanning is stopped when there is a low probability that both the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device are unavailable.

[0029] The term "available" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and customary meaning to one of ordinary skill in the art and should not be limited to any special or customized meaning. The term may specifically, but not be limited to, refer to an operational state in which the corresponding imaging device is ready to scan slides. However, the operational state of the imaging device may further assume a non-availability state, particularly during a warm-up phase or during a failure of the corresponding imaging device.

[0030] Thus, the operating system can recognize the respective operating states of the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device, and the operating state of each imaging device is used to determine whether the respective imaging device is available or not. For this purpose, a direct connection can be provided between the output of each imaging device and the computer on which the operating system may be running. Alternatively or additionally, the slide imaging device may further comprise at least one vision sensor configured to detect the operating state of the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device using at least one indicator configured to indicate the corresponding operating state of the imaging device, particularly preferably at least one visual indicator in the form of one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). As a result, an individual pattern can be generated in this way for each imaging device, the term "pattern" referring to the visual configuration displayed by at least one indicator, particularly at least one visual indicator, preferably at least one LED, of the corresponding imaging device. The operating state of each imaging device can therefore be related to the individual pattern determined for each imaging device. Recording the individual pattern of each imaging device by the at least one vision sensor can therefore directly provide the desired information regarding the operating state of each imaging device.

[0031] In general, the supplying device may be configured to process slides or slide holders, respectively, along a predefined routine route, for example starting from the top row of the storage device and continuing to the bottom row. In certain embodiments, the storage device may further comprise a fast lane. The term "fast lane" as used herein is a broad term and should be given its ordinary and customary meaning to those skilled in the art and should not be limited to a special or customized meaning. The term may specifically, but not exclusively, refer to a partition of the storage device configured to store at least one sample mounted on a designated slide, each designated slide being determined for privileged processing (or priority processing) outside the predefined routine route normally used by the supplying device. In this way, the specifically designated slides can be further processed according to the specific desires of the user of the slide imaging device.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment, the supplying device is configured to return the slides from the first or second imaging device to the storage device, preferably after completion of the scanning process, in particular to the relevant position in the storage device where the slides were loaded. In other words, the supplying device is configured to return the slides from the first or second imaging device to the same position in the storage device where the slides were loaded before the slides were selectively transferred from the storage device to the first or second imaging device. Thus, a user of the slide imaging device can receive the slides in the same order as they were provided to the storage device, thus facilitating subsequent identification and possible further processing of the slides.

[0033] Furthermore, the slide imaging device may preferably comprise an operating system that may be configured to control the operation of at least one component of the slide imaging device, which may in particular be selected from at least one of the supply device, the first imaging device, and the second imaging device. For this purpose, the operating system may comprise at least one computer, at least one input device configured to input instructions to the computer, and at least one display device. Here, the input device may preferably comprise a keyboard. Furthermore, the display device may preferably be configured to present at least one information regarding the operating state of the slide imaging device to the user. However, further information may also be provided.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the operating system can be designated to control the operation of the feeder by using information about the operating state of each imaging device, in particular the individual patterns acquired by at least one vision sensor of each imaging device. In particular, the operation of the feeder can be adapted to deliver and / or eject slides or slide holders only to imaging devices that are currently available. In other words, the operating system can take into account that at least one particular imaging device may not currently be available and modify the operation of the feeder accordingly.

[0035] As a result, even if one of the imaging devices fails, the operation of the slide imaging device can be maintained almost undisturbed, thereby maintaining the throughput of the slide imaging device at the same or approximately the same level. In the case of a potential failure, the operating system can rearrange the operating mode of the feeder so that only at least one currently available imaging device is delivered or ejected. In other words, the slide imaging device can operate continuously in the case of a failure, or resume operation only after a fairly short time interval that can be required by the operating system to rearrange the operating mode of the feeder. Furthermore, this type of configuration can make it easier for a user of the slide imaging device or service personnel watching the slide imaging device to access a potentially defective imaging device during operation of the slide imaging device, especially to check and, if necessary, repair the defective imaging device.

[0036] Additionally, the slide imaging device may include at least one monitor configured to display at least one image, and preferably a plurality of images, in a presentation viewable by a user of the slide imaging device. In particular, the monitor may be mounted on a rotatable holder to facilitate viewing of the at least one image by the user from various positions.

[0037] Further preferred configurations of the slide imaging device can be considered. Thus, the slide imaging device may further comprise a frame, in particular a frame with wheels, a first plate connected to the frame, and a second plate connected to the frame, the first imaging device may be arranged on the first plate, and the second imaging device may be arranged on the second plate. Here, the first plate and the second plate may be extendable independently of each other from the frame, thus improving access to each imaging device for service personnel. However, in embodiments where at least one imaging device is considered too delicate to move, the plates may not be necessary. Preferably, the first imaging device and the second imaging device may be arranged adjacent to each other, in particular vertically one above the other, or horizontally adjacent. In general, the adjacent arrangement of the imaging devices may facilitate the reach of the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device by the robot arm of the supplying device. Furthermore, the slide imaging device may comprise a table, and at least the storage device and the supplying device may be mounted on the table. Furthermore, the slide imaging device may include a housing that at least partially surrounds the supply device, and the housing may include a safety door and a safety switch configured to detect a state of the safety door. Furthermore, the slide imaging device may include an emergency stop switch and further an emergency stop button, and the emergency stop switch may be operable using the emergency stop button. For further details regarding further preferred configurations of the slide imaging device, reference may be made to the embodiments disclosed below.

[0038] Further disclosed and proposed herein is a method for imaging a plurality of slides, the method comprising the steps of: a) loading a plurality of slides into an archive device and storing the slides in the archive device; b) selectively feeding slides from the storage device to at least one first imaging device or at least one second imaging device; and c) generating an image of the slide-mounted sample using the first imaging device or the second imaging device.

[0039] In particular, the method may start with step a), whereafter steps b) and c) may be repeated successively for any or preferably all slides provided in step a), To this end, slides may be selectively fed in an automated manner from an archive device to the first imaging device or the second imaging device.

[0040] Furthermore, the further step d) can be performed as follows: d) Transporting the slide from the first imaging device or the second imaging device to an archiving device.

[0041] As already indicated, the slide may be transported to the relevant position in the storage device in particular where the slide was loaded, in other words to the same position in the storage device where the slide was loaded before being provided from the storage device to the at least one first imaging device or the at least one second imaging device.

[0042] For further details regarding methods for imaging multiple slides, reference may be made to the slide imaging apparatus, as described elsewhere herein.

[0043] In one or more embodiments contained herein, a computer program comprising computer executable instructions for carrying out the method according to the present invention is further disclosed and proposed, when the program is executed on a computer or a computer network. In particular, the computer program can be stored in a computer readable data carrier and / or a computer readable storage medium.

[0044] As used herein, the terms "computer-readable data carrier" and "computer-readable storage medium" may specifically refer to non-transitory data storage means such as a hardware storage medium on which computer-executable instructions are stored. A computer-readable data carrier or storage medium may specifically be or include a storage medium such as a random access memory (RAM) and / or a read-only memory (ROM).

[0045] Thus, in particular, one, more than one or all of the method steps a) to d) as described above can be carried out using a computer or a computer network, preferably using a computer program.

[0046] Further disclosed and proposed herein is a computer program product having program code means for carrying out the method according to the invention in one or more embodiments contained herein when the program is executed on a computer or a computer network. In particular, the program code means can be stored on a computer readable data carrier and / or a computer readable storage medium.

[0047] Further disclosed and proposed herein is a data carrier having stored thereon a data structure capable of performing the method according to one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein after being loaded into a computer or computer network, such as into a working memory or main memory of the computer or computer network.

[0048] Further disclosed and proposed herein is a computer program product having program code means stored in a machine-readable carrier for performing the method according to one or more of the embodiments contained herein when the program is executed on a computer or computer network. As used herein, a computer program product refers to a program as a tradeable product. The product generally exists in any format, such as a paper format, or on a computer-readable data carrier and / or a computer-readable storage medium. In particular, the computer program product may be distributed over a data network.

[0049] Finally, disclosed and suggested herein is a modulated data signal containing instructions readable by a computer system or computer network for carrying out a method according to one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0050] With reference to computer-implemented aspects of the present invention, one or more or all of the method steps of the methods according to one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein can be performed by using a computer or a computer network. Thus, in general, any of the method steps involving providing and / or manipulating data can be performed by using a computer or a computer network. In general, these method steps can include any method steps, usually excluding method steps that require manual operations, such as providing a sample and / or certain aspects of performing the actual measurement.

[0051] Specifically, further disclosed herein are: A computer or computer network comprising at least one processor adapted to execute a method according to one of the embodiments described herein, a computer-loadable data structure adapted to carry out a method according to one of the embodiments described herein while said data structure is executed on a computer; A computer program adapted to carry out a method according to one of the embodiments described herein while said program is being run on a computer, A computer program comprising program means for carrying out a method according to one of the embodiments described herein while said computer program is being run on a computer or on a computer network, A computer program comprising program means according to any preceding embodiment, the program means being stored on a computer readable storage medium. A storage medium, the storage medium having a data structure stored therein and adapted to perform a method according to one of the embodiments described herein after the data structure has been loaded into a main memory and / or a working memory of a computer or a computer network, and A computer program product having program code means for performing a method according to one of the embodiments described herein when executed on a computer or on a computer network, the program code means being storable or stored on a storage medium.

[0052] Advantageously, the slide imaging device and the method for imaging a plurality of slides allow for uninterrupted processing of slides processed in the imaging device, the slides being provided in a storage device capable of loading a plurality of slides to be introduced into the imaging device. In particular, they allow for improved processing of slides in case of a failure of any one of the imaging devices, the failure including a stop of processing of slides by the failed imaging device. In particular, the improved processing of slides avoids manual handling of slides in case of a failure of any one of the imaging devices. Stopping of the scanning procedure can be reduced to a fairly rare event where both at least one first imaging device and at least one second imaging device are unavailable due to a failure.

[0053] In summary, without excluding further embodiments, the following embodiments can be envisaged:

[0054] EMBODIMENT 1 A slide imaging device, at least one first imaging device and at least one second imaging device, each configured to generate an image of a sample mounted on a slide; a storage device capable of receiving a plurality of slides and configured to store the slides; a supply device configured to selectively supply slides from the storage device to the first imaging device or the second imaging device.

[0055] EMBODIMENT 2 2. The slide imaging device of embodiment 1, wherein the feeding device is configured to automatically feed slides from the storage device to the first imaging device and the second imaging device.

[0056] EMBODIMENT 3 3. The slide imaging device of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the supply device is further configured to transport slides from the first imaging device or the second imaging device to the storage device.

[0057] EMBODIMENT 4 4. A slide imaging device as described in embodiment 3, wherein the supply device is configured to transport a slide from the first imaging device or the second imaging device to the storage device at an associated position within the storage device where the slide is loaded.

[0058] EMBODIMENT 5 A slide imaging device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein at least one of the first imaging device and the second imaging device is selected from a 2D camera or a line scan detector.

[0059] EMBODIMENT 6 6. A slide imaging device according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the storage device is loadable by a slide holder, the slide holder being configured to hold more than one slide.

[0060] EMBODIMENT 7 7. A slide imaging device as described in embodiment 6, wherein the storage device is manually loadable with multiple slides or slide holders.

[0061] EMBODIMENT 8 8. A slide imaging apparatus according to embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the storage device is configured to store the slides or slide holders in rows adjacent to one another.

[0062] EMBODIMENT 9 A slide imaging apparatus according to any one of embodiments 6 to 8, wherein the storage device comprises a rack in which slides or slide holders are loaded.

[0063] EMBODIMENT 10 10. A slide imaging apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the supply device comprises a robot arm.

[0064] EMBODIMENT 11 11. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 10, wherein the robotic arm comprises a gripping device configured to grip a slide or a slide holder.

[0065] EMBODIMENT 12 12. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 11, wherein the gripping device has a protrusion.

[0066] EMBODIMENT 13 13. A slide imaging device as described in embodiment 12, wherein the protrusion is configured to press an operation button of the first imaging device and / or the second imaging device.

[0067] EMBODIMENT 14 14. A slide imaging apparatus according to embodiment 12 or 13, wherein the protrusions are spear-like or finger-like protrusions.

[0068] EMBODIMENT 15 A slide imaging device described in any one of embodiments 1 to 14, further comprising a fast lane configured to charge at least one of the first imaging device or the second imaging device with at least one sample mounted on a designated slide determined for privileged processing.

[0069] EMBODIMENT 16 A slide imaging device described in any one of embodiments 1 to 15, further comprising a frame, particularly a frame having wheels, a first plate connected to the frame, and a second plate connected to the frame, wherein a first imaging device is disposed on the first plate and a second imaging device is disposed on the second plate.

[0070] EMBODIMENT 17 17. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 16, wherein the first plate and the second plate are extendable from the frame independently of each other.

[0071] EMBODIMENT 18 A slide imaging apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the first imaging device and the second imaging device are disposed adjacent to each other.

[0072] EMBODIMENT 19 A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 18, wherein the first imaging device and the second imaging device are arranged one above the other or adjacent to each other.

[0073] EMBODIMENT 20 A slide imaging device described in any one of embodiments 1 to 19, further comprising an operating system configured to control the operation of at least one of the supply device, the first imaging device, and the second imaging device.

[0074] EMBODIMENT 21 21. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 20, wherein the operating system comprises at least one computer, at least one input device configured to input instructions to the computer, and at least one display device.

[0075] EMBODIMENT 22 22. A slide imaging device as described in embodiment 21, wherein the input device comprises a keyboard.

[0076] EMBODIMENT 23 23. The slide imaging device of any one of embodiments 20 to 22, wherein the operating system is configured to control the selective feeding of slides from the storage device to the first imaging device or the second imaging device according to a predetermined algorithm based on the following principles: sharing the scanning of the plurality of slides between the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device so long as both the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device are available; Scanning multiple slides within a single available imaging device; The scanning is stopped if both the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device are unavailable.

[0077] EMBODIMENT 24 A slide imaging device described in any one of embodiments 1 to 23, further comprising at least one monitor configured to present an image of a sample mounted on a slide after scanning by the first imaging device or the second imaging device.

[0078] EMBODIMENT 25 25. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 24, wherein at least one monitor is attached to a rotatable holder.

[0079] EMBODIMENT 26 26. A slide imaging apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, further comprising a table, wherein at least the storage device and the supply device are attached to the table.

[0080] EMBODIMENT 27 27. A slide imaging apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a housing at least partially surrounding the supply device.

[0081] EMBODIMENT 28 28. A slide imaging device as described in embodiment 27, wherein the housing comprises a safety door and a safety switch for detecting the state of the safety door.

[0082] EMBODIMENT 29 The slide imaging apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 28, further comprising an emergency stop switch.

[0083] EMBODIMENT 30 30. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 29, further comprising an emergency stop button.

[0084] EMBODIMENT 31 A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 30, wherein the emergency stop switch can be operated using an emergency stop button.

[0085] EMBODIMENT 32 A slide imaging device described in any one of embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the first imaging device and the second imaging device are provided with at least one indicator configured to indicate the operating status of the first imaging device and the second imaging device.

[0086] EMBODIMENT 33 33. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 32, wherein the at least one indicator is or comprises at least one visual indicator.

[0087] EMBODIMENT 34 34. A slide imaging apparatus as described in embodiment 32 or 33, wherein the at least one indicator comprises at least one light emitting diode (LED).

[0088] EMBODIMENT 35 A slide imaging device described in any one of embodiments 32 to 34, further comprising at least one vision sensor configured to detect the operating status of the first imaging device and the second imaging device using at least one indicator.

[0089] EMBODIMENT 36 A slide imaging device as described in embodiment 35, wherein at least one vision sensor is designated to obtain an individual pattern for each imaging device by recording a visual configuration displayed by at least one indicator of a corresponding imaging device.

[0090] EMBODIMENT 37 37. A slide imaging device as described in embodiment 36, wherein the operating state of each imaging device is associated with an individual pattern determined for each imaging device.

[0091] EMBODIMENT 38 A slide imaging device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 37, comprising at least two first imaging devices and / or at least two second imaging devices.

[0092] EMBODIMENT 39 1. A method for imaging a plurality of slides, comprising: a) loading a plurality of slides into an archive device and storing the slides in the archive device; b) selectively providing slides from the storage device to at least one first imaging device or at least one second imaging device; c) generating an image of the slide-mounted sample using the first imaging device or the second imaging device.

[0093] EMBODIMENT 40 40. The method of embodiment 39, wherein the slides are automatically fed from the storage device to the first imaging device or the second imaging device.

[0094] EMBODIMENT 41 41. The method of embodiment 39 or 40, wherein slides are selectively delivered from the storage device to the first imaging device or the second imaging device according to a predefined algorithm based on the following principles: sharing the scanning of the plurality of slides between the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device so long as both the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device are available; Scanning multiple slides within a single available imaging device; The scanning is stopped if both the at least one first imaging device and the at least one second imaging device are unavailable.

[0095] EMBODIMENT 42 moreover, d) The method according to any one of embodiments 39 to 41, comprising a step in which the slide is transported from the first imaging device or the second imaging device to a storage device.

[0096] EMBODIMENT 43 43. The method of embodiment 42, wherein the slide is transported to an associated location within a storage device loaded with slides. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0097] Further optional features and embodiments are disclosed in more detail in the following description of the embodiments, preferably in conjunction with the dependent claims. Here, each optional feature may be realized in an independent manner as well as in any possible combination, as understood by a person skilled in the art. The scope of the present invention is not limited by the preferred embodiments. The embodiments are illustrated diagrammatically in the figures, where the same reference signs in these figures refer to the same or functionally comparable elements.

[0098] Diagrammatically, this is: [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic side view of a preferred embodiment of a slide imaging device according to the present disclosure; [Figure 1B]1 is a schematic side view of a preferred embodiment of a slide imaging device according to the present disclosure; [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a method for imaging multiple slides according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0099] FIG. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a slide imaging apparatus 110 according to the present disclosure in a side view. As shown in FIG. 1, the slide imaging apparatus 110 can preferably include a frame 112, which can include, among other things, wheels 114, thus allowing the slide imaging apparatus 110 to be moved to a desired position. As further shown in FIG. 1, the frame 112 further includes a table 116, on which at least a storage device 118 and a supply device 120 are attached. However, further types of configurations for the storage device 118 and the supply device 120 can also be considered.

[0100] Further, according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the first plate 122 and the second plate 124 are connected to the frame 112, the first imaging device 126 is disposed on the first plate 122, and the second imaging device 128 is disposed on the second plate 124. As a result, the slide imaging apparatus 110, as shown in FIG. 1A, comprises two individual imaging devices 126, 128. In a further embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1B, the slide imaging apparatus 110 comprises two pairs of individual imaging devices 126, 128; 126', 128'. However, in further embodiments (not shown here), the slide imaging apparatus 110 may comprise three, five, six, or more individual imaging devices that can be individually addressed by the supply device 120, as disclosed in more detail above or below.

[0101] As a result of the particular arrangement shown in Fig. 1, the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128' are arranged one above the other. However, further types of arrangements for the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128' can also be envisaged, in particular as long as the supply device 120 can reach them. Furthermore, the first plate 122 and the second plate 124 may preferably be extendable from the frame 112 in an independent manner, in particular by using telescopic rails (not shown here), in order to facilitate access, in particular in the case of a service case. In this embodiment, a precise positioning can preferably be achieved by recesses in the plates 122, 124, which are designed to receive the respective bases of the imaging devices 126, 128; 126', 128', respectively. However, further types of configurations can also be feasible.

[0102] As further shown in Fig. 1, the slide imaging apparatus 110 according to this embodiment includes a housing 130 that at least partially encloses the feeding device 120 and thus supports unhindered operation of the feeding device 120. As shown diagrammatically in Fig. 1, the housing 130 has a safety door 132 and a safety switch 134 that is configured to detect a state of the safety door 132, such as an open or closed state of the safety door 132. However, further types of safety measures may be possible.

[0103] 1 further includes an emergency stop switch 136, which here can be operated using an emergency stop button 138. However, further types of emergency equipment can be realized. The emergency stop switch 136 can induce an immediate stop of operation of the slide imaging apparatus 110 when the emergency stop button 138 is pressed, if deemed necessary by service personnel.

[0104] As shown diagrammatically in Fig. 1, the storage device 118 is loadable with a plurality of slides 140 and is configured to store the slides 140. In particular, the plurality of slides 140 may be manually loaded into the storage device 118. To this end, the storage device 118 may be loadable with at least one of individual slides and slide holders 142, each slide holder 142 configured to hold more than one slide 140. As further shown in Fig. 1, the storage device 118 is configured to store the slides 140 or slide holders 142, respectively, in rows 144 arranged adjacent to one another. However, further configurations of the storage device 118 can also be envisaged.

[0105] In general, the supplying device 120 may be configured to process slides 140 or slide holders 142, respectively, along a predetermined routine route, for example, beginning with an upper row 146 of the storage device 118 and continuing to a lower row 148. In the particular embodiment illustrated herein, the storage device 118 may include an express lane 150, which may be configured to store at least one sample mounted on a designated slide 152, and each designated slide 152 located in the express lane 150 may be determined for privileged processing outside of the predetermined routine route normally used by the supplying device 120.

[0106] As further shown generally in Figure 1, the feeder 120 is configured to selectively feed the slide 140 from the storage device 118 to the first imager 126 or the second imager 128. As further shown generally in Figure 1B, the feeder 120 can be configured to selectively feed the slide 140 from the storage device 118 to one of the first imager 126, 126' or one of the second imager 128, 128'. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the feeder 120 may be configured to selectively automatically feed the slide 140 from the storage device 118 to the first imager 126, 126' or the second imager 128, 128'. Preferably, the operation of the supplying device 120 can be determined by using information regarding the operational state of each imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128', in particular by adapting the operation of the supplying device 120 to deliver slides 140 or slide holders 142 only to currently available imaging devices and / or to eject slides 140 or slide holders 142 only from currently available imaging devices, whereby taking into account that at least one particular imaging device may not currently be available, the operation of the supplying device can be modified accordingly.

[0107] As shown therein diagrammatically, the supply device 120 may comprise a robot arm 154 that may be configured to introduce the slide 140 into a slide receiving portion 156, in particular a slit, as included in each of the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128', the slide receiving portion 156 being configured to receive the slide 140 for imaging purposes. Here, the robot arm 154 may comprise a gripping device 158 configured to grip the slide 140 or the slide holder 142, respectively. More specifically, the gripping device 158 may have a protrusion (not shown here), in particular a spear-shaped or finger-shaped protrusion, configured to press an operating button 160 of the first imaging device 126, 126' or the second imaging device 128, 128'. However, still further types of arrangements of the supply device 120 may also be possible.

[0108] Additionally, the supply device 120 may be configured to return the slides 140 from the first imaging device 126, 126' or from the second imaging device 128, 128' to the storage device 118 after scanning. The slides 140 can then be manually removed from the storage device 118, thus providing space for additional slides 140. In particular, the supply device 120 may be configured to transport the slides 140 from the first imaging device 126, 126' or from the second imaging device 128, 128' back to the storage device 118 to the associated position within the storage device 118 where the slides 140 were previously loaded prior to scanning. As a result, the user may receive the slides 140 in the same order in which they were provided to the storage device 118.

[0109] As already indicated above, the exemplary slide imaging device 110 shown in FIG. 1A comprises a first imaging device 126 and a second imaging device 128, each of which is configured to generate an image 162 of a sample mounted on a slide 140. Similarly, a further first imaging device 126' and a further second imaging device 128', each of which is not shown in FIG. 1B, are configured to generate an image 162 of a sample mounted on a slide 140. To this end, each of the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128' can preferably be selected from a 2D camera or a line scan detector. However, further types of imaging devices can also be feasible.

[0110] In a particular embodiment, at least one of the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128' may be provided with at least one indicator, particularly preferably at least one visual indicator in the form of one or more LEDs 164, configured to indicate an operating state of the first imaging device 126, 126' or the second imaging device 128, 128', respectively. In this particular embodiment, the slide imaging device 110 may further comprise at least one vision sensor 166 configured to detect an operating state of at least one of the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128' using an indication provided by at least one visual indicator, particularly preferably one or more LEDs 164, as shown in FIG. 1. For this purpose, the vision sensor 166 may comprise an optical recording device 168, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1. In further embodiments (not shown here), the slide imaging device 110 may include at least two individual vision sensors 166, each of which may include an individual optical recorder 168, and each of which may be assigned to detect the operating state of an individual imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128'. However, further embodiments are still possible.

[0111] In particular, an individual pattern can thus be generated for each individual imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128', the pattern including at least one indicator of the corresponding imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128', in particular at least one visual indicator, preferably a visual configuration displayed by at least one LED 164. As a result, the recording of the individual pattern of each imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128' by at least one vision sensor 166 can thus directly provide the desired information regarding the operating state of each individual imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128'. In this way, the slide imaging device 110 can independently access the operating state of the first imaging device 126, 126' or the second imaging device 128, 128', respectively, without having to obtain this information directly from the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128'. However, direct communication between the first imaging device 126, 126' or the second imaging device 128, 128' on the one hand and the operating system 170 for providing the operating status of the first imaging device 126, 126' and the second imaging device 128, 128' on the other hand may also be feasible.

[0112] As a result, the operation of the feeder 120 can be determined by using information about the operational state of each imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128', in particular by using the individual patterns acquired by at least one vision sensor 166 for each imaging device 126, 128; 126', 128', such that the operation of the feeder 120 can be adapted to deliver slides 140 or slide holders 142 to and / or eject slides 140 or slide holders 142 from only the currently available imaging devices. Thus, the operation of the slide imaging device 110 is at least largely unhindered even if one of the imaging devices 126, 128; 126', 128' fails, in which case the operating system 170 can re-arrange the operational mode of the feeder 120 accordingly. Furthermore, a user of the slide imaging apparatus 110 or service personnel viewing the slide imaging apparatus 110 can have largely unhindered access to a potentially defective imaging device, particularly to check and, if necessary, repair the defective imaging device. In an embodiment, access to the defective imaging device is facilitated by the first plate 122 or the second plate 124 being extendable from the frame 112, particularly by using a telescoping rail (not shown here). In such an embodiment, a user can check and, if necessary, repair the defective imaging device, or even remove the defective imaging device from the slide imaging apparatus 110, without interrupting operation of the slide imaging apparatus 110.

[0113] As described above, the slide imaging device 110 may include an operating system 170 that may be configured to control the operation of one or more of the supply device 120, the at least one first imaging device 126, 126', and the at least one second imaging device 128, 128'. Here, the operating system 170 may preferably include a computer 172 and an input device 174 configured to input instructions to the computer 170, and the input device 174 may include a keyboard 176 and at least one display device 178. Here, the display device 178 may be used to display at least one piece of information regarding the operating status of the slide imaging device 110.

[0114] Furthermore, the slide imaging device 110 may be provided with at least one monitor 180, which may preferably be mounted on a rotatable holder (not shown here), to facilitate viewing of an image 162 of a sample mounted on a slide 140 after being scanned by at least one first imaging device 126, 126' or at least one second imaging device 128, 128' from various positions by a user.

[0115] FIG. 2 illustrates generally a preferred embodiment of a method 210 for imaging a plurality of slides 140, which includes the following steps.

[0116] In a loading step 212 according to step a), a plurality of slides 140 are loaded into and stored by the storage device 118. As used herein, the slides 140 may be loaded as individual slides 140 or by using a slide holder 142 configured to hold more than one slide 140.

[0117] In a supplying step 214 according to step b), the slides 140 are selectively supplied from the storage device 118 to at least one first imaging device 126, 126' or at least one second imaging device 128, 128', preferably continuously, by using the supplying device 120. Here, the slides 140 are preferably automatically supplied from the storage device 118 to at least one first imaging device 126, 126' or at least one second imaging device 128, 128'.

[0118] In an imaging step 216 according to step c), an image of the sample mounted on the slide 140 is generated using at least one first imaging device 126, 126' or at least one second imaging device 128, 128'. The image 162 can then be displayed on the monitor 180 as described above.

[0119] In a transport step 218, the slides 140 may be transported from at least one first imaging device 126, 126', or from at least one second imaging device 128, 128', either as individual slides 140 or by using a slide holder 142 configured to hold multiple slides 140, to the storage device 118, and in particular to an associated location within the storage device 118 in which the slides 140 are loaded.

[0120] For further details regarding the method 210 for imaging a plurality of slides 140, reference may be made to the slide imaging apparatus 110, as described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 110 Slide imaging device 112 frames 114 Wheels 116 Table 118 Storage device 120 Feeding device 122 First Plate 124 Second Plate 126, 126' First imaging device 128, 128' second imaging device 130 Housing 132 Safety Door 134 Safety Switch 136 Emergency stop switch 138 Emergency stop button 140 Slides 142 Slide Holder 144 lines 146 Ascending 148 Descending 150 Fast Lane 152 Specified Slide 154 Robot Arm 156 Slide receiving part 158 Gripping device 160 Operation Button 162 images 164 Light Emitting Diode (LED) 166 Vision Sensor 168 Optical recording device 170 Operating Systems 172 Computers 174 Input Devices 176 Keyboard 178 Display 180 monitors 210 Methods for Imaging Slides 212 Loading Step 214 Supply Step 216 Imaging Steps 218 Transport Step

Claims

1. A slide imaging device (110), at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and at least one second imaging device (128, 128'), each configured to generate an image (162) of a sample mounted on a slide (140); a storage device (118) capable of receiving a plurality of slides (140) and configured to store said slides (140); a supply device (120) configured to selectively supply the slides (140) from the storage device (118) to the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') or the at least one second imaging device (128, 128'); the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') are provided with at least one visual indicator configured to indicate an operating state of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128'), and the slide imaging device (110) further comprises at least one vision sensor (166) configured to detect an operating state of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') using the at least one visual indicator; operation of the supplying device (120) is controlled by using information regarding the operational states of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128'); A slide imaging device (110), wherein the at least one vision sensor (166) is designated to obtain an individual pattern for each imaging device (126, 128, 126', 128') by recording a visual configuration displayed by the at least one visual indicator of a corresponding imaging device (126, 128, 126', 128').

2. 2. The slide imaging device (110) of claim 1, wherein the supply device (120) is configured to automatically supply the slides (140) from the storage device (118) to the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128').

3. The slide imaging apparatus (110) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the feeding device (120) comprises a robotic arm (154).

4. 4. The slide imaging device (110) of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first imaging device (126, 126') and the second imaging device (128, 128') is selected from a 2D camera or a line scan detector.

5. 5. The slide imaging device (110) of claim 1, wherein the storage device (118) is manually loadable with the plurality of slides (140).

6. 6. The slide imaging device (110) of claim 1, wherein the storage device (118) is capable of loading a slide holder (142), the slide holder (142) being configured to hold two or more slides (140).

7. The slide imaging device (110) of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the supply device (120) is further configured to transport the slide (140) from the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') or the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') to the storage device (118).

8. 8. The slide imaging device (110) of claim 7, wherein the supply device (120) is configured to transport the slide (140) from the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') to the storage device (118) to an associated position within the storage device (118) where the slide (140) is loaded.

9. 9. The slide imaging device (110) of claim 1, further comprising a high-speed lane (150) configured to charge at least one of the first imaging device (126, 126') and the second imaging device (128, 128') with at least one sample mounted on a designated slide (152) determined for privileged processing.

10. A slide imaging device (110) as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a frame (112), a first plate (122) connected to the frame (112), and a second plate (124) connected to the frame (112), wherein the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') is disposed on the first plate (122) and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') is disposed on the second plate (124).

11. The slide imaging device (110) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') are arranged one above the other.

12. The slide imaging device (110) of any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising an operating system (170) configured to control operation of at least one of the supply device (120), the at least one first imaging device (126, 126'), and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128').

13. 13. The slide imaging device (110) of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the at least one visual indicator comprises at least one light emitting diode (164).

14. A method (210) for imaging a plurality of slides (140) using a slide imaging device (110), comprising: The slide imaging device (110) at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and at least one second imaging device (128, 128'), each configured to generate an image (162) of a sample mounted on a slide (140); a storage device (118) capable of receiving a plurality of slides (140) and configured to store said slides (140); a supply device (120) configured to selectively supply the slides (140) from the storage device (118) to the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') or the at least one second imaging device (128, 128'); the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') are provided with at least one visual indicator configured to indicate an operating state of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128'), and the slide imaging device (110) further comprises at least one vision sensor (166) configured to detect an operating state of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128') using the at least one visual indicator; operation of the supplying device (120) is controlled by using information regarding the operational states of the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') and the at least one second imaging device (128, 128'); the at least one vision sensor (166) is designated to obtain an individual pattern for each imaging device (126, 128, 126', 128') by recording a visual configuration displayed by the at least one visual indicator of a corresponding imaging device (126, 128, 126', 128'); The method (210) comprises: a) loading said plurality of slides (140) into said storage device (118) and storing said slides (140) in said storage device (118); b) selectively feeding said slides (140) from said storage device (118) to said at least one first imaging device (126, 126') or said at least one second imaging device (128, 128'); and c) generating an image (162) of the sample mounted on the slide (140) using the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') or the at least one second imaging device (128, 128').

15. 15. The method (210) of claim 14, wherein the slides (140) are automatically provided from the storage device (118) to the at least one first imaging device (126, 126') or the at least one second imaging device (128, 128').

Images