AUTOMATED COVERSLIPPER AND METHODS OF USE

摘要

An apparatus and method for selecting and dispensing coverglasses over specimens on slides for the purpose of viewing specimens through a microscope. The selecting device contains suctioning mechanisms for picking up a coverglass from a stack of coverglasses. It also contains the ability to shape the coverglass to assist in separating and laying down of the coverglasses with a reduction in the creation of bubbles in the fluid.

主权项

1. An automated coverslipper for mounting a coverslip on a slide, comprising:
at least one coverslip; at least one slide containing a biological specimen; and at least one lifter head comprising a plate having a bottom surface with at least three individually controlled suction cups arranged thereon, each of said suction cups being fluidly connected, by way of a gas conduit, to a pneumatics module, which includes a vacuum source, a pressure source, a pressure sensor, and an independently operable control-valve for each gas conduit, said pneumatics module being configured to supply an independent vacuum or pressurized gas to each suction cup to enable the lifter head to pick up, transport, and deposit the coverslip on the slide, and wherein at least one of said independently operable control-valves is configured to allow both an immediate release of vacuum and a gradual release of vacuum.