Biological growth plate scanner with automated intake

US7496225B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY · US

Inventors

• Josef A. Graessle · Kaarst, DE
• Kevin R. Green · Maplewood, US
• Albert Vent · Eschweiler, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 4, 2003
• Grant date: Feb 24, 2009
• Expiry date: Mar 16, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2015/1486
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

The invention is directed to a biological scanner for scanning biological growth plates. The biological growth plate is loaded into the biological scanner via motorized rollers, and an actuator presses the growth plate against a platen once the growth plate is drawn to a scanning position within the scanner. The biological scanner then generates one or more images of the growth plate. Moreover, sensors can be arranged to facilitate sensing and positioning of the growth plate in a plurality of locations for imaging different parts of the plate. Additional embodiments are directed to features such as a hinged door that facilitates access to the scanner, and footings disposed on various sides of the scanner to facilitate flip-over of the scanner for simplified use by right-handed or left-handed users.