Automated Tissue Sectioning and Staining for High-Throughput 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current histomorphologic evaluation methods for tissue samples are labor-intensive and require skilled technicians, and image scanning/acquisition in digital pathology is limited to 2-D views with low throughput, hindering high-volume tissue-based testing and AI-driven analysis.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a moving tape to transfer sequentially cut tissue slices through dewaxing, staining, and imaging modules, enabling high-throughput processing and generation of multi-layer 3D images for AI-focused digital pathology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional microscope-based reading of pathology images is used, then image quality can be maintained, but processing time is excessive and throughput is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical microscope-based image acquisition with a digital camera system that captures images of tissue sections on a conveyor belt. This substitution enables automated, high-throughput imaging without manual microscope operation, directly addressing the throughput and time efficiency problems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a continuous conveyor belt system that transports tissue sections through staining and imaging processes without interruption. This continuous flow eliminates the batch processing delays of traditional methods, maintaining constant productivity and reducing overall processing time.
2Extent of automation
If traditional tissue slide preparation methods are used, then histomorphologic evaluation can be performed, but the process is labor-intensive and requires highly trained technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated system where the tissue processing equipment performs staining, sectioning, and imaging operations autonomously. The system self-manages the workflow from tissue sectioning through staining to digital imaging, eliminating the need for manual intervention by skilled technicians while maintaining operational simplicity through centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple separate operations (tissue sectioning, staining, and imaging) into a single integrated automated system. By merging these functions into one cohesive workflow on a continuous conveyor belt, the system reduces operational complexity while achieving high automation, as users only need to initiate the process rather than manage each step separately.
3Loss of information
If current image scanning technology is used, then 2-D views of tissue sections can be obtained, but more holistic 3D information cannot be acquired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional 2-D imaging to 3-D tissue reconstruction by capturing multiple sequential images of tissue sections at different depths. The system stacks these 2-D images to create comprehensive 3-D representations, enabling holistic tissue analysis while using standard digital imaging components rather than complex specialized 3-D hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary sectioning of tissue into multiple thin slices before imaging. By pre-processing the tissue to create a stack of sections, the system enables subsequent 3-D reconstruction from 2-D images. This preliminary action simplifies the imaging process while capturing comprehensive three-dimensional tissue information.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for processing biological samples including a sample cutter to cut sample slices, a moving tape, a staining module, an imaging unit, and a computing system. The moving tape is configured to collect and align the sample slices consecutively according to their cutting order. The staining module is configured to transfer the moving tape through the staining module for staining and the plurality of sample slices on the moving tape are processed while in the staining module. The imaging unit is configured to image the stained moving samples and to collect digital images of the sample slices consecutively according to their cutting order. The computing system is configured to receive the collected and consecutive digital images of the plurality of sample slices and to combine the collected and consecutive digital images into a three dimensional image.