Section Collecting Device for Use in a Microtome or Ultramicrotome

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

This invention describes a compact, cassette-like device for automatically collecting and handling thin sample sections generated by a microtome or ultramicrotome. The device includes a housing with movable spools connected by a plastic tape, which receives freshly cut sections in sequence. The system automates the transport, storage, and handling of these sections, reducing manual intervention and risk of error. It also offers flexible integration with devices for sample preparation, treatment (e.g., plasma surface modification), and analysis (e.g., microscopy).

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

• Automatic collection and storage of ultrathin biological or materials science sections for microscopy.
• Integration with microtomes or ultramicrotomes in research or clinical pathology labs.
• Use in cryo-ultramicrotomy for electron microscopy sample preparation.
• Sequential treatment of sections (plasma, staining, contrasting) without manual handling.
• Automated transfer of sections to analysis devices such as light, confocal, or electron microscopes.
• Safe transport of delicate sections between preparation and analysis stages.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Reduces manual handling and risk of damaging delicate ultrathin sections.
• Minimizes human error and increases throughput in section collection and preparation.
• Compact and cassette-like design allows for easy integration and transport between lab devices.
• Enables automation of the entire workflow from sectioning through preparation to imaging.
• Improves consistency and reliability in sample handling, enhancing research and diagnostic quality.
• Supports flexible use in various sample treatment and analysis setups, including compatibility with cryo-ultramicrotomes and plasma treatment devices.

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).