Capillary Staining Module for Biological Sample Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated systems for processing biological samples, such as those used in immunohistochemical and in-situ hybridization procedures, face challenges including the need for complex mechanical apparatuses, fixed processing volumes, high operational costs, and inefficiencies in fluid management, which hinder precise control of humidity and temperature, leading to suboptimal results and increased manual labor.
Innovation Solution
An automated staining apparatus with a capillary staining module that includes a slide rack holder and a capillary lid rack holder, allowing for the formation of a capillary gap between slides and lids, enabling precise fluid supply and control of humidity and temperature, while reducing the volume of processing fluid required and simplifying the processing of multiple slides simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated systems are used for processing biological samples, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of fluid application from complex mechanical systems and implements it through a simple capillary gap mechanism. The capillary gap between the slide rack and processing chamber wall automatically draws up processing fluid via capillary action, eliminating the need for motors, pumps, and complex mechanical actuators while maintaining automated processing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The processing chamber is designed to be self-regulating through capillary action. The capillary gap automatically controls fluid uptake and humidity maintenance without external intervention, and the chamber structure itself provides the fluid management function rather than requiring separate mechanical systems
2Loss of substance
If small volumes of processing fluid are used, then loss of substance is reduced, but manufacturing precision is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable capillary lids that are pre-formed with precise capillary dimensions. These single-use components provide consistent, precision-engineered capillary gaps without requiring complex manufacturing or calibration of the main processing chamber, making the precision function available at low cost and simplifying the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The capillary gap dimensions are optimized to specific parameters that control fluid uptake rate and humidity maintenance. By carefully selecting the gap width and depth, the system achieves precise fluid management passively through capillary action, reducing fluid consumption while maintaining processing quality
3Reliability
If precise control of humidity and temperature is provided, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capillary gap acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates simple fluid supply into precise humidity control within the processing chamber. The capillary action automatically regulates evaporation and moisture levels, providing reliable humidity maintenance without requiring complex sensors, actuators, or control algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The capillary gap provides continuous passive humidity control throughout the processing cycle. As long as processing fluid is supplied, the capillary mechanism continuously regulates chamber humidity, ensuring consistent conditions for reliable FISH results without intermittent adjustments or complex control cycles
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 apparatus achieves efficient and precise processing of biological samples with reduced fluid consumption, improved temperature and humidity control, and automated handling of multiple slides, enhancing the consistency and efficiency of molecular pathology examinations.
Implementation Method 1
whereby a capillary gap is formed between the slide and the capillary lid, the capillary gap being configured to comprise the supplied reagent
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A method and an automated apparatus for processing at least one biological sample arranged on a slide. At least one capillary staining module has a slide rack holder configured to detachably hold a slide rack configured to hold slides, and a capillary lid rack holder configured to detachably hold a capillary lid rack configured to hold capillary lids, wherein the slide rack can be removed independently of removing the capillary lid rack. A first fluid container has a first fluid. The apparatus being configured to automatically rotate the one or more slides, and to move the lids towards the slides to automatically form a capillary gap between each slide and each capillary lid, said capillary gap functioning as a capillary chamber; and to supply an amount of the first fluid to the slide.