Biological Sample Processing Equipment with Controlled Paraffin Dripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for processing biological samples are time-consuming, costly, and prone to errors due to manual handling, leading to potential sample loss and unusable sections, especially with small samples, and require multiple paraffin pourings that can cause fractures in the paraffin block.
Innovation Solution
A piece of equipment with a separate fixing station and drip device for controlled paraffin application, a cooling chamber for rapid solidification, and automated handling to ensure precise positioning and minimal paraffin use, reducing manual intervention and improving sample stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling and multiple paraffin pourings are used, then the sample can be processed, but processing time increases and sample fractures occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the paraffin embedding process into two separate stations: a fixing station that applies a controlled amount of paraffin to secure the sample, and a filling station that completes the embedding. This segmentation allows the sample to be fixed quickly without requiring multiple manual pourings, reducing processing time while maintaining sample integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing station performs preliminary paraffin application to secure the sample in position before the main filling process. This preliminary action prevents sample movement during subsequent operations, eliminating the need for repeated handling and multiple pourings that cause delays and potential fractures.
2Loss of substance
If manual paraffin removal is performed, then excess paraffin can be removed, but the operation becomes risky and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically removes excess paraffin through a trimming station that uses a blade to cut away surplus material after the filling station completes the embedding. This automated self-service function eliminates the need for manual paraffin removal, reducing operational risk while efficiently managing paraffin waste.
3Productivity
If automated handling is implemented, then processing speed increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device integrates multiple functions into a single automated platform: the fixing station applies paraffin, the holding surface positions the sample, the filling station completes embedding, and the trimming station removes excess material. This multi-functionality achieves automated handling and increased processing speed without requiring separate manual operations for each step, making the complexity manageable through functional integration.
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 equipment significantly reduces processing time and costs, minimizes paraffin waste, and ensures consistent sample orientation, preventing fractures and sample loss, thus enhancing the reliability of subsequent analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling chamber for rapid solidification
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The equipment (1) for processing biological samples comprising: a processing device (2) of biological samples comprising at least one box (3) defining at least one open containment chamber (4) and having a bottom wall (5) provided with a plurality of through openings (6), and at least one supporting element (7) defining at least one housing seat (8) of the box (3), wherein the housing seat (8) has at least one recess (9) intended to receive a biological tissue sample and arranged, in use, facing the bottom wall (5); at least one filling station (14) of the recess (9) comprising at least one dispensing device (15) of fluid paraffin; and at least one fixing station (16) of the biological sample separate from the filling station (14) and comprising at least one drip device (17) adapted to release fluid paraffin in droplet form inside the recess (9).