Surface Orientation Sensor for Microtome Sample Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microtomes lack an efficient method to autonomously align the surface of a sample with the cutting plane, leading to uneven sectioning and requiring manual adjustment, which can be time-consuming and prone to error.
Innovation Solution
A surface orientation sensor system that includes a sensing plate and frame, capable of detecting the angular orientation of the sample surface relative to the cutting plane, allowing for autonomous adjustment to ensure the surface is parallel or more parallel with the cutting mechanism, thereby improving alignment accuracy and reducing operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual adjustment is used to align the sample surface with the cutting plane, then the operator can make adjustments, but the process is time-consuming and prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The microtome system performs self-alignment by using a sensor to detect the angular orientation of the sample surface and automatically adjusting the sample holder orientation without requiring manual intervention from the operator
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment process is replaced with an automated sensing and control system that uses a sensor to detect surface orientation and a control system to automatically adjust the sample holder, eliminating manual operation
2Reliability
If manual adjustment is used to align the sample surface, then flexibility is maintained, but the process is prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The system autonomously performs the alignment function by detecting sample surface orientation and automatically adjusting the sample holder, making the system self-correcting and eliminating reliance on operator skill and attention
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor continuously detects the angular orientation of the sample surface and provides feedback to the control system, which automatically adjusts the sample holder orientation to achieve and maintain proper alignment with the cutting plane
3Manufacturing precision
If no orientation sensing is provided, then the device is simpler, but uneven sectioning occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor-based detection system replaces the need for complex mechanical alignment mechanisms or manual measurement tools, using electronic sensing to detect surface orientation and enable automated correction
Solution Approach 2:
The microtome system autonomously detects and corrects sample orientation issues through the integrated sensor and control system, automatically maintaining proper alignment without requiring external intervention or complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A sample sectioning device includes a cutting mechanism, a sample holder, a drive system, and a surface orientation sensor. The sample holder is operable to hold a sample. The cutting mechanism is operable to cut sections from the sample. The drive system is coupled with the sample holder. The drive system is operable to drive movement between the sample held by the sample holder and the cutting mechanism. The surface orientation sensor is operable to sense an orientation of a surface of the sample held by the sample holder.