Microscope Slide Holder with Ramp and Stopper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses fail to consistently and predictably secure microscope slides with varying inconsistencies or deformities, leading to inconsistent imaging results due to lack of secure substrate positioning.
Innovation Solution
A holder with a U-shaped frame and securing blocks that include a ramp and stopper mechanism, allowing for kinematic mounting and secure attachment of substrates, accommodating various sizes and shapes by using multiple contact points and adjustable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional substrate holding methods are used, then the apparatus structure is simple, but the substrate positioning consistency deteriorates due to substrate inconsistencies and deformities
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is divided into multiple independent walls (base, first arm, second arm) with separate platforms and securing blocks. Each wall independently supports a portion of the substrate, allowing the system to accommodate substrate variations through distributed contact points rather than a single rigid structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure bar is designed to be movable between open and closed positions, allowing the substrate to be freely inserted when the bar is open, then securely constrained when closed. This dynamic element enables the holder to adapt to different substrate configurations while maintaining consistent positioning during imaging.
2Reliability
If rigid substrate securing is applied, then the substrate movement is prevented, but the substrate surface may be deformed due to excessive constraint forces
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the holder provide different types of support: platforms provide broad surface support to prevent deformation, while securing blocks provide localized constraint forces only where needed to prevent movement. The ramps on the securing blocks are designed to guide the substrate off the platforms without applying excessive force to the substrate surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing blocks include ramps that guide the substrate off the platforms in a controlled manner before the stopper engages. This gradual constraint process prevents sudden force application that could deform the substrate, while still achieving reliable positioning.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple securing points are used to accommodate various substrate configurations, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder design uses three walls with platforms and securing blocks that can accommodate various substrate sizes, shapes, and configurations. The same basic structure (walls, platforms, securing blocks with ramps and stoppers) serves multiple functions: support, positioning, and constraint, making the device versatile without requiring numerous specialized components for different substrate types.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure is directed to an apparatus for securely holding a substrate, such as a microscope slide. A holder includes a frame including at least three walls, such as a base, a first arm, and a second arm. Each wall includes a platform or a portion of a platform to support the substrate. The first arm includes at least one securing block and a second arm opposite the first arm includes a secure bar with a securing block. The securing blocks include a ramp to guide the substrate off of the platforms and a stopper to set a maximum lift distance and to constrain the substrate.