US 9,001,422 B2 · Slide handling system and techniques

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.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A slide handling device, comprising:

a crash arm assembly including:
a first mating part;
a second mating part;
an extension arm used in connection with picking up a slide and being coupled to the second mating part;
and
a spring coupling the first mating part and the second mating part, wherein the spring is biased by at least one angle in at least one direction, wherein the at least one angle facilitates mating of the first mating part and the second mating part in a normal operating position of the crash arm assembly, and wherein, upon deflection of the crash arm assembly from the normal operating position, the spring applies a force to return the crash arm assembly to the normal operating position.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Slide handling system and techniques

Life of this patent

Slide handling system and techniques

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20