Automated Histological Embedding Machine Conveyor System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated embedding machines for histological samples are complex and prone to malfunctions, particularly due to the need for multiple independent positioning systems and dispensers to distribute heated paraffin evenly.
Innovation Solution
An automated embedding machine comprising a conveyor, pouring station, and cooling station that simplifies the process by transporting casting molds through a single conveyor system, eliminating the need for multiple positioning systems and dispensers, and using a securing element to align and immobilize samples for efficient embedding and cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If multiple independent positioning systems and dispensers are used to distribute heated paraffin evenly, then the embedding process can be performed automatically, but the device complexity increases and malfunction risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple positioning systems and dispensers into a single integrated conveyor system that performs both transport and embedding functions. The conveyor system integrates the positioning and paraffin distribution functions, eliminating the need for separate independent systems and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system is designed to perform multiple functions: it transports the samples, positions them accurately, and distributes the heated paraffin simultaneously. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing device complexity and malfunction risk while achieving automatic embedding.
2Extent of automation
If multiple independent positioning systems are used to hold and transport samples, then automatic embedding can be achieved, but the risk of collision between different transport systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple transport systems into a single integrated conveyor system. By consolidating the transport functions into one unified system rather than having multiple independent systems operate simultaneously, the risk of collision between different transport systems is eliminated while maintaining automatic sample handling capability.
3Device complexity
If a single conveyor system is used to transport and embed samples, then device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision of sample positioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The single conveyor system is designed with multi-functional capabilities, incorporating specialized positioning mechanisms and paraffin distribution functions directly into the transport system. This integration allows the system to maintain high manufacturing precision for sample positioning while reducing the overall number of separate positioning systems needed.
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 solution reduces the risk of malfunctions and enhances the reliability of the embedding process by eliminating complex configurations and ensuring consistent embedding and cooling of histological samples, allowing for efficient production and prioritization of samples.
Implementation Method 1
a pouring station (2) that fills each casting mold (7) with an embedding medium (9) heated to above its melting point
Implementation Method 2
a cooling station (3) that cools the embedding medium (9) of each casting mold (7) to below its melting point
Data Source
AI summary
An automated embedding machine includes at least a conveyor, a pouring station, and a cooling station. The conveyor is embodied and arranged to receive casting molds each having at least one histological sample arranged therein, and to transport them to the pouring station which fills each casting mold with an embedding medium heated to above its melting point, and then to the cooling station which cools the embedding medium of each casting mold to below its melting point. The disclosure furthermore relates to a method for embedding a histological sample.