Kinematic Substrate Holder for Consistent Imaging Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge lies in consistently and predictably securing substrates of varying sizes and shapes on imaging devices, such as microscope slides, due to inconsistencies and deformities, which affects image quality and proper surface location determination.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a holder and gripper with kinematic mounts, including securing blocks and a secure bar, that accommodate different substrate sizes and shapes by providing multiple points of contact and adjustable components, ensuring secure and repeatable positioning without deforming the substrate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional substrate securing methods are used, then substrates can be loaded onto imaging devices, but substrates of varying sizes and shapes cannot be consistently or predictably secured due to inconsistencies and deformities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconsistent substrate positioningVSAvoidaccommodation of varying substrate sizes and shapes

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The holder is designed with a universal securing mechanism that can accommodate substrates of varying sizes and shapes through adjustable securing elements. The kinematic mount system provides multiple contact points that can adapt to different substrate geometries while maintaining consistent positioning, allowing the same holder to reliably secure various substrate types without requiring substrate-specific fixtures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The securing mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as adjustable securing blocks and kinematic mounts that can adapt their position and orientation based on the specific substrate being loaded. This dynamic adjustability allows the system to maintain reliable positioning across different substrate configurations while accommodating size and shape variations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If substrates are secured firmly to prevent movement, then positioning consistency improves, but friction increases which may deform the substrate surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesubstrate positioning consistencyVSAvoidsubstrate surface deformation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The securing blocks are designed with localized contact surfaces that distribute securing forces across specific regions of the substrate rather than applying concentrated pressure. This local quality approach maintains positioning consistency while minimizing surface deformation by spreading the mechanical stress across multiple discrete contact points with optimized surface properties.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The kinematic mount system acts as an intermediary between the holder and substrate, providing a mechanism that achieves secure positioning through geometric constraints rather than high friction forces. The intermediary mounting mechanism translates securing requirements into gentle contact forces that prevent substrate movement without deforming the surface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11300769B2Automated substrate loading

Publication Date: 2022.04.12 RARECYTE INC

AI summary

This disclosure is directed to system for transferring a substrate, such as a microscope slide, and holding the substrate within at least one device. The system includes a holder for holding the substrate and a gripper for transferring the substrate, such as between a cassette or stack and the holder. A method is also discussed herein.