Oscillating microtome with flexure drive
US10054519B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 11, 2017 |
| Grant date | Aug 21, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 11, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T83/8876
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A microtome method and apparatus includes a microtome blade configured to oscillate in a direction transverse to a direction of advancing a cut, and a first flexure to support and guide the blade. The first flexure is compliant in the transverse direction while being stiff in the cut direction. A second flexure operatively engaged at one end portion with the first flexure, is stiff in the transverse direction while being compliant in the cut direction. The other end portion of the second flexure is rotatably engaged by an eccentric driven by a rotatable actuator, which oscillates the blade in the transverse direction while effectively isolating non-transverse motion from the blade. The second flexure is configured to move independently of any guides or other stationary objects during oscillation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.