Rotating Slide Heater Layout for Automated Multi-Slide Drying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laboratory slide heating systems are inefficient and lack automation for consistent drying and processing of laboratory slides.
Innovation Solution
A laboratory slide heater with a housing containing multiple stations, movable covers, and a heating mechanism, along with a motorized platform for rotating slides, and a user interface for automated control, ensuring precise temperature and time settings for each slide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If horizontal hotplates and ovens are used to heat and dry wet laboratory slides, then the slides can be heated, but the process lacks automation and efficiency in handling multiple slides
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple independent stations (at least three stations) arranged around a rotating platform, with each station capable of holding and processing slides independently. This segmentation allows multiple slides to be processed simultaneously at different stations while maintaining automated rotation and heating control for each station.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is designed to rotate dynamically, bringing different stations into position under the heat source as needed. The rotational mechanism enables automated progression through drying cycles at multiple stations without manual intervention, transforming a static heating process into a dynamic multi-position automated system.
2Productivity
If multiple stations are added to handle multiple slides, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating platform serves multiple functions: it holds multiple stations, provides rotational movement to position stations under the heat source, and enables automated progression through drying cycles. This universal component handles what would otherwise require multiple separate devices, increasing productivity while controlling complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple heating stations, a rotational mechanism, and a heat source into a single integrated device. By merging these components that would traditionally be separate devices into one unified system, the invention achieves multi-slide processing capability while avoiding the complexity of coordinating multiple independent devices.
3Productivity
If automated rotation and heating is implemented, then productivity and automation increase, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating platform system is designed to automatically progress through drying cycles without continuous manual intervention. Once initiated, the system self-manages the rotation and heating sequence, reducing the need for complex control systems and manual operation while maintaining high productivity through automated multi-station 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
Facilitates efficient and automated drying and processing of laboratory slides, improving consistency and reducing user intervention through automated timers and indicators.
Implementation Method 1
a heating means positioned to deliver heat into the interior region for heating at least one of the stations and the one or more laboratory slides accommodated at that station at a predetermined temperature
Implementation Method 2
A motor is configured to rotate the platform for removing liquid from the slides
Data Source
AI summary
A laboratory slide heater includes a housing having an interior region defining a plurality of stations and an open end; a plurality of movable covers at least partially concealing the open end of the interior region; and a heater positioned to deliver heat into the interior region for heating one or more of the plurality of stations. Each movable cover is positioned to provide access to one station of the plurality of stations. The stations may be arranged in a circular fashion on a rotatable platform for drying purposes.