Section Collecting Device for Use in a Microtome or Ultramicrotome

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention is a cassette-like device designed to automate the collection and handling of ultra-thin sections (sectional slides) produced by microtomes or ultramicrotomes, commonly used in microscopy sample preparation. The device consists of a compact housing containing spools and a plastic collection belt, along with a motorized gear mechanism, to continuously receive, store, and transport these delicate sections with minimal manual intervention. It can also integrate with plasma treatment devices and microscopes for streamlined pre-treatment or imaging.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Automated collection of thin sections in biological or materials research laboratories using microtomes or ultramicrotomes.
• Integration into cryo-ultramicrotomy workflows, especially when space is limited.
• Facilitating plasma pre-treatment of collection belts to enhance section adhesion prior to collection.
• Direct transfer of collected sections to microscopes for staining, observation, or digital imaging.
• Minimizing operator error and contamination during section transfer in routine or high-throughput laboratories.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly reduces manual handling, decreasing the risk of loss, damage, or contamination of ultra-thin sections.
• Compact and portable cassette design allows for easy transfer and integration across various prep, treatment, and imaging devices.
• Automation accelerates workflows and increases reproducibility in sample processing and analysis.
• Can be retrofitted onto existing microtome setups with minimal modification.
• Improves laboratory safety and efficiency, particularly in sensitive applications such as cryo-microscopy or electron microscopy.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a sectional slide collecting device (1) which is designed to successively receive sectional slides produced by a microtome or ultramicrotome (38), comprising a housing (2) of cassette-like configuration, in which a first coil former (3) is arranged such that it can be rotated about a first rotational axis (A1) and a second coil former (4) is arranged such that it can be rotated about a second rotational axis (A2), a sectional slide collecting belt (8) which is preferably produced from plastic, extends between the coil formers (3, 4), and the end portions of which are wound partially onto the coil formers (3, 4), a gear device (5) which transmits the rotational movement of a motor unit (22) to one or to the two coil formers (3, 4), belt guides (6) which are arranged within the housing (2) and guide the sectional slide collecting belt (8) in the region between the coil formers (3, 4), and a sectional slide receiving device (7) which is designed to receive, so as to guide it, a sectional slide collecting belt portion which is guided out of the housing (2) through a housing opening (12).