Vacuum Slide Holder with Non-Round Sealing Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preparing biological specimens for analysis, such as microscopy and immunohistochemical staining, face challenges including inconsistent processing due to manual techniques, contamination, excessive reagent usage, and evaporation losses, leading to inefficient and costly procedures with high waste generation.
Innovation Solution
An automated slide processing apparatus with a sealing mechanism and vacuum system that applies reagents to microscope slides, utilizing a carousel with reagent reservoirs and a pipette assembly for precise dispensing and mixing, while minimizing reagent volume and preventing cross-contamination, and a heating system to maintain uniform temperature and reagent concentration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual application of dyes or reagents is used, then flexibility in processing can be maintained, but processing consistency deteriorates due to individual techniques among laboratory technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service processing where the automated slide processor applies reagents and performs processing steps without requiring manual intervention from laboratory technicians, thereby eliminating variability in individual techniques while maintaining processing consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical application of reagents with an automated mechanical system that uses controlled dispensing mechanisms, positioning systems, and automated handling to perform the same functions with consistent precision and reliability
2Extent of automation
If dip and dunk automated machines are used, then processing automation is achieved, but reagent contamination and degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the processing into separate stations (e.g., reagent application station, washing station, drying station) with individual controlled environments, allowing each station to be optimized and isolated from contamination sources in other stations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as controlled dispensing mechanisms, positioned reagent delivery systems, and intermediate transfer platforms that prevent direct contact between reagents and contamination sources while maintaining automated processing
3Ease of operation
If open containers are used for reagents, then accessibility is improved, but evaporative losses and oxidative degradation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs flexible sealing mechanisms and controlled enclosure structures that protect reagents from evaporation and oxidation while maintaining access for automated dispensing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous controlled delivery systems where reagents are delivered in controlled amounts continuously or periodically, minimizing the time reagents are exposed to degrading conditions while maintaining operational accessibility
4Productivity
If high concentrations of conjugate are used, then staining speed is increased, but non-specific background staining increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor staining progress and reagent consumption, allowing the automated processor to adjust conjugate delivery rates dynamically to optimize staining speed while minimizing waste from non-specific binding
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies controlled partial action by delivering precise, limited amounts of conjugate exactly where and when needed, rather than using excessive concentrations that would waste reagents and cause non-specific background staining
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
The automated system ensures consistent and efficient specimen processing with reduced reagent usage, minimized waste, and improved reagent concentration, enhancing the quality and consistency of staining while reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
a support element having a support surface; at least one vacuum port; and a sealing member having a non-round shape as viewed from above, wherein the sealing member in an uncompressed state extends upwardly beyond the support surface and in a compressed state is configured to maintain an airtight seal with a backside of the microscope slide when the microscope slide is pulled against the support surface by a vacuum drawn via the at least one vacuum port
Implementation Method 2
a heating system to maintain uniform temperature and reagent concentration
Data Source
AI summary
At least some embodiments of the technology are directed to an automated slide processing apparatus configured to apply at least one reagent to a specimen carried by a microscope slide. The slide processing station can include a support element with a support surface, at least one vacuum port, and a sealing member having a non-round shape. In an uncompressed state, the sealing member can extend upwardly beyond the support surface. In a compressed state, the sealing member can be configured to maintain an airtight seal with a backside of the microscope slide as the microscope slide is pulled against the support surface by a vacuum drawn via the at least one vacuum port.