Microtome Controller Virtual Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aligning a sample block in a microtome to achieve precise cutting is challenging due to difficulties in correctly positioning and orienting the sample block relative to the knife, especially when the cutting plane is not directly visible.
Innovation Solution
A controller for a microtome that visualizes a virtual representation of the sample block, allowing users to input data to define the front surface, edge, and cutting plane, and calculates alignment parameters to facilitate accurate alignment between the knife and the sample block.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual alignment of the sample block is performed, then the operator has flexibility in positioning, but the alignment precision is insufficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual 3D copy of the sample block that can be interactively manipulated and measured. This virtual representation allows precise determination of the front surface and cutting plane without physically manipulating the actual sample block, thereby achieving high alignment precision while reducing the time required for alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated system that uses a 3D scanner to capture the sample block geometry and a processor to automatically determine alignment parameters. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with automated digital processing significantly improves both precision and efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If the cutting plane is not visible, then the sample block can be positioned freely, but the alignment accuracy cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual 3D representation of the sample block that includes the cutting plane information. This virtual copy allows the user to interact with and measure the cutting plane characteristics without needing direct visual access to the physical cutting plane, maintaining alignment accuracy while simplifying the operational interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual 3D representation acts as an intermediary between the physical sample block and the alignment process. It mediates the alignment operation by providing a digital model that can be measured and analyzed, eliminating the need for direct visual observation of the cutting plane while ensuring accurate alignment.
3Measurement precision
If automated alignment is implemented, then alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it manages the 3D scanning process, processes the scanned data to create the virtual representation, determines alignment parameters, and controls the microtome operations. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional controller, the system achieves automated alignment precision without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for a microtome configured to cut slices from a sample block is configured to control a display to visualize a virtual representation of the sample block, receive first user input data indicative of a front surface of the sample block, determine a virtual front surface of the sample block based on the first user input data, receive second user input data indicative of an edge of the front surface of the sample block, determine a virtual edge of the front surface of the sample block based on the second user input data, receive third user input data indicative of a cutting plane intersecting the sample block, determine a virtual cutting plane intersecting the sample block based on the third user input, and determine alignment parameters based on the virtual front surface and the virtual edge of the front surface of the sample block and the virtual cutting plane.