Automated Histological Sample Processor with Enclosed Vapor Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manual process of handling histological samples is time-consuming, requiring laboratory workers to manually open fixing containers, remove samples, and transport them between stations, which increases the risk of exposure to hazardous vapors and inefficiencies in processing.
Innovation Solution
An automated system with a processor that includes an inlet for fixing containers, handling devices, multiple treatment stations, reagent containers, a dispenser for embedding material, a cooling unit, and a controller to manage sample processing and transport, reducing the need for manual handling and minimizing exposure to hazardous agents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling of samples is used, then the process is simple and device complexity is low, but productivity is low and time consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system performs sample handling, transport, and processing operations autonomously without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by automatically moving samples between stations, managing reagent containers, and coordinating processing steps, thereby eliminating the need for laboratory workers to manually handle samples while significantly improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into multiple specialized treatment stations (dehydration station, clearing station, infiltration station, embedding station), each performing a specific function. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples simultaneously at different stations, increasing overall productivity while keeping each individual station relatively simple in design
2Reliability
If manual handling of samples is used, then the operation is flexible and adaptable, but exposure to hazardous vapors increases and safety decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system acts as an intermediary between the laboratory worker and hazardous samples/reagents. By automating sample handling and enclosure within the processor system, laboratory workers are eliminated from direct contact with hazardous vapors, significantly improving safety while reducing exposure risks
Solution Approach 2:
The processor system creates a controlled, enclosed environment for sample processing where hazardous vapors are contained within the system rather than released into the laboratory atmosphere. This isolated processing environment protects external personnel from exposure while allowing necessary chemical processing to occur
3Loss of time
If automated handling is implemented, then productivity increases and time consumption decreases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated handling system performs multiple functions including sample transport, station coordination, reagent management, and process monitoring within a single integrated platform. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate manual operations and equipment, thereby decreasing overall time consumption despite the increased complexity of the automated system
Solution Approach 2:
The system is pre-configured with multiple treatment stations, reagent containers, and automated mechanisms ready for operation. Samples are automatically transferred and processed through pre-programmed sequences, eliminating the need for manual setup and intervention during processing. This preliminary preparation and automation significantly reduce time consumption during actual sample processing
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 automated system significantly reduces manual work steps, enhances processing efficiency, and minimizes exposure to hazardous vapors by automating the handling and processing of histological samples from fixation to embedding, resulting in a more streamlined and safer laboratory workflow.
Implementation Method 1
the embedding material is cooled in the cooling unit to a temperature at which the embedding material solidifies
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a processor for working on histological samples. The processor has an inlet for the insertion of a fixing container, particularly a closed fixing container, with the samples located in the latter.