Automated specimen processing systems and methods of detecting specimen-bearing microscope slides
US11035868B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jun 15, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 9, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/112499
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Systems and methods that enable automated processing of specimens carried on microscope slides are described herein. In some embodiments, the system can include, for example, a slide ejector assembly having a slide staging device configured to receive a slide and an over-travel inhibitor that includes a first vacuum port positioned to draw a first vacuum between the slide and a standby platform as the slide is moved across at least a portion of the standby platform. The over-travel inhibitor includes a first sensor for detecting a presence of the slide on the standby platform. The system can also include a transfer assembly to transport slides away from the slide ejector assembly. The transfer assembly can include a floating transfer head having a vacuum port for drawing a partial vacuum for holding the slide.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.