Method and apparatus for processing tissue samples using a sensor

US8309037B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Michael Erben · Philippsburg, DE
• Nils Jakob · Schallstadt, DE
• Claus Haberkorn · Dielheim, DE
• Frank Meder · Bammental, DE
• Michael Rapp · Seeheim-Jugenheim, DE
• Joachim Hoffmann · Esslingen am Neckar, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 27, 2009
• Grant date: Nov 13, 2012
• Expiry date: Mar 7, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T436/2575
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An apparatus and a method for processing tissue samples are described. The apparatus comprises: at least one retort for accommodating tissue samples; at least one container for storing alcohol or xylene; a valve adapted to connect the at least one retort with the at least one container depending on an operating position of the valve; and at least a first sensor that is arranged in flow direction between the container and the retort for measuring a value of a parameter that represents a purity level of the alcohol or xylene; wherein the first sensor and the valve are configured to replace the alcohol or xylene depending on the value of the parameter that represents the purity level. The method comprises for the alcohol or xylene conducting between the container and the retort; automatically measuring the purity level and replacing depending on the purity level.