Automatic Slicing and Collecting Device for Vibrating Microtome Sections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manual collection of thin sections from vibrating microtomes in biological research and medical examination is inefficient and laborious, and existing automatic devices are complex and expensive due to the need for multiple water channels and controllers.
Innovation Solution
An automatic slicing and collecting device comprising a tank filled with a buffer solution, a vibrating microtome, pipelines with valves and a pump, and a dispenser head with an annular sieve, utilizing a reversible motor and three-axis manipulator to automate the collection of sliced sections onto a perforated plate, allowing for efficient and continuous section collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual collection of thin sections is used, then operation simplicity is maintained, but productivity is low and labor is intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic section collection through self-service mechanisms. The pump automatically draws buffer solution through the microtome and dispensing needle, the valve controls automatic section transfer to the well plate, and the manipulator autonomously positions components. This eliminates manual section picking while maintaining operational simplicity through automated self-regulating processes.
2Productivity
If multiple water channels and controllers are used for automatic collection, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated system. The pump, valve, and manipulator work as a unified automated assembly rather than separate complex water channel systems. The buffer solution serves dual purposes: as a medium for section transport and as a collection vehicle, eliminating the need for separate water channels and controllers while achieving automatic high-throughput section collection.
3Productivity
If a pump and valve system is used for section collection, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer solution performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a transport medium for sections, a collection vehicle for automated dispensing, and a rinsing agent. The single pump-valve-pipeline system handles both section transfer and solution circulation, eliminating the need for separate water channel systems and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device significantly improves the efficiency of slicing and collecting by automating the process, reducing manual labor and complexity, while being easier to assemble and operate, with the ability to collect sections automatically and return buffer solution to the tank.
Implementation Method 1
The pump comprises a reversible motor. One end of the first pipeline is connected to the vibrating microtome to collect sections, and the other end of the first pipeline is connected to a pump. The first pipeline is provided with a first valve, and a filter is disposed between the pump and the first pipeline.
Implementation Method 2
One end of the first pipeline is connected to the vibrating microtome to collect sections, and the other end of the first pipeline is connected to a pump
Implementation Method 3
a filter is disposed between the pump and the first pipeline
Implementation Method 4
an annular sieve is sleeved on the dispenser head, and a diameter of the annular sieve equals to a diameter of pores on the perforated plate
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic slicing and collecting device, the device including: a first tank, a vibrating microtome, a first pipeline, and a second pipeline. The first tank is filled with a buffer solution. The vibrating microtome is disposed in the first tank. One end of the first pipeline is connected to the vibrating microtome to collect sections, and the other end of the first pipeline is connected to a pump. The pump includes a reversible motor. The first pipeline is provided with a first valve, and a filter is disposed between the pump and the first pipeline. One end of the second pipeline is disposed between the first valve of the first pipeline and the pump, and the second pipeline is provided with a second valve.