Slide handling system and techniques
US9001422B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 28, 2013 |
| Grant date | Apr 7, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 6, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B21/34
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In an automated process of handling slides, such as in an imaging system, a slide hander must be able to get a hold of, lift up, and move slides, with tissues samples thereon, to multiple locations quickly and efficiently. To perform this function, the arm of the slide handler needs to be free to move from one location to the next and to advantageously respond in the event of encountering any unexpected or misplaced objects and/or other obstacles without jamming, being damaged and/or causing damage to a slide. A system described herein provides for the use of a slide handler having a crash head assembly with a spring-loaded flexible joint that may disengage if an unexpected obstacle is encountered and spring back to its proper location once the obstacle is cleared. Additionally, because the crash head assembly can flex, it is less likely to break or chip the glass slides.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.