Magazine unit, slide
handling;
SCAN
For technicians and
partly for sales managers!
These instructions
describe the procedures to install and adjust the magazine unit for Pannoramic
SCAN scanners. To help resolve problems with the magazine unit or problems with
slide insert or slide removal, a hardware description of the used components
and adjustment procedures are added.
During the development of the Magazine unit of the SCAN, the components
are more and more adapted to the components of the P250 in functionality, but
mainly 3deviations existing:
- The number of
magazines, hold in the input and output stack is maximal 6 magazines, so
the dimensions of the input and output stack are smaller.
- The sensors
Hall 1 and Hall 2 are not implemented, so the presence of magazines in the
input and output stack is checked by the user.
- The drive of
the "Magazine load gear" is modified.
Contents
Slide loader;
components, construction
Slide insert and removal
(software)
Magazine load procedure (software)
Define,
adjust slide insert and removal
Adjust the magazine
load mechanics
List of
Parameters and explanation
Remove and mount the magazine
unit
Important
If a software
upgrade from the software version 1.14 to the software version 1.15 or higher is
done, please adjust the position of the magnet disc again.
“Configure the magazine
unit” and “Magnet disc”
For
safety regulations regarding human health and scanner functionality please
refer to: Precautions
The magazine unit is a component added to the Pannoramic
SCAN scanner to give the possibility of loading and removal of magazines and slides
automatically. To handle the slides, magazines are used with 25 slide
positions. The magazine input and output stack respectively can hold up to 6
magazines. The magazines are placed manually into the input stack and removed
from the output stack by the user. The magazine load procedure transports the
magazine with the help of the magazine load mechanism from the input stack to
the magazine feeder.
The
magazine feeder has 2 functions:
· It transports the
magazine from the magazine load position to the first slide position and from
the last slide position to the magazine unload position.
· It transports the
magazine from slide position to slide position if slide change is done, after
slide scanning is finished or to any desired slide position of the magazine.
The
slide loader inserts the slide from the actual slide position of the magazine into
the Specimen holder (slide holder) of the XY-Stage and after the scan procedure
is finished it removes the slide from the specimen holder into the
magazine.
If
automatic scan mode is selected
all slides in the magazine are loaded sequentially from the magazine into the
specimen holder, scanned by the scanner unit and returned into the magazine
automatically after the scan process of the actual slide is finished. If all
slides of the actual magazine are scanned the magazine is removed from the
magazine feeder channel to the output stack meanwhile the next magazine will be
loaded from the input stack, if there are any further magazines.
If
manual scan mode is selected the Magazine load or unload and the slide load or
unload procedures are controlled via software buttons. The mechanical movements
are the same as described for automatic scan.
The exchange of the entire magazine unit is necessary
-
If one of the two magazine handling DC motors or the DC controller electronics
is faulty.
-
If the shape of any part is deformed or a part is broken.
-
If the magazine unit has any fault and
you are unable to fix it.
Requirements
- Service
program for Pannoramic scanners (SlideScannerService.exe) with actual license file
- Pannoramic SCAN and Pannoramic Viewer software
(SlideScanner.exe, SlideViewer.exe) with actual license file
- 1.5, 2.5, 3 and
- Hardware and construction
knowledge of Pannoramic SCAN
Attention Do not mix the versions
of SlideScanner.exe and SlideScannerService.exe! Always use these programs with
the same version number. Otherwise the SlideScannerService.exe program could
produce unwanted results and SlideScanner.exe does not work correctly or even
freeze!
In the
program “SlideScanner.exe”
the movement of the magazine is controlled via the magazine load and unload
buttons in the tab “Routine work” if the manual scan operation is
selected.
- The slide loader inserts and removes the slide during the slide
insert or removal operation.
·
To select a specific slide position of the
magazine, the “Current slide” position may be incremented or decremented by the
use of the buttons of the numerical field, or you may type a value between 1
and 25 into the numerical field.
·
By pressing the button “Slide insert” the
magazine is moved to the desired slide position (shown in the numerical field)
and then, the slide will be inserted. Is a slide in the specimen holder and the
button “Slide insert” is pressed with a modified slide position, the slide will
be removed first, before the magazine is moved.
Load a magazine
The “Magazine
Loader” motor is started with the software button “Load Magazine”. By rotating
the “Magazine Input Stack Wheels” the first magazine is placed onto the
“Magazine Feeder Rails”. The end of the process is signaled by the “Magazine
Loader Sensor” (not shown) and the “Magazine Loader” motor is switched off by
software.
Unload a magazine
If the scan session of the
actual magazine is finished or the magazine remove command is issued, the
magazine is fed to the output stack position. The exact unload position is
defined by the “Right magazine sensor” actuation again after the magazine
passed it. Meanwhile the magazine is unloaded to the output stack the next
magazine (if any exists) is loaded from the input stack to the feeder.
Feed a magazine
If a magazine
arrived onto the magazine feeder rails the “Left Magazine Sensor” will be pressed.
Even the weight of an empty magazine is able to push this sensor. This sensor
signals the software, that a magazine had been loaded and a magazine is present
in the magazine feeder channel. The magazine feeder motor is switched on by
software and transports the magazine with the help of the feeder gear to the
first slide position. During magazine feeding the “Magazine feeder sensor” (not
shown) gives a pulse after each full turn of the feeder spindle to the software
via the DC electronics and the USB electronics box. The software counts the
pulses of the “Magazine feeder sensor” and finds the magazine position for the
actual slide to be inserted. The distance between two slide positions is
exactly 2 full turns of the feeder spindle.
The slide loader inserts the slide
to be scanned from the actual magazine’s slide position into the slide holder
of the X-Y-Stage by pressing the “slide
insert button” and removes the slide from the specimen holder and returns
it to the slide position of the magazine, if a slide removal procedure is
initiated by the “Slide remove” button.
Newer version of the slide
loader
The DC Electronics box is mounted onto the
magazine unit from beneath. The commands to switch on or off the motors or the
preview illumination are issued from the software (SlideScanner.exe or SlideScannerService.exe) via the USB Controller and the cable DCF-1. The
status information (the state of the sensors) is read by the software on the
same way. To prevent the motors from overload if hardware jamming occurs, all
commands starting the DC motors have a time out. Normally, the motor is stopped
with the sensor action before the time is run out. If the sensor action is
missed (jamming occurred) the time out event will switch off the motor.
In the software
version 1.15 or higher the components of the scanner SCAN 150 can be defined in
the section [Microscope].
Because modifications are taken on the magazine unit and the slide
loader; and these modifications have to be handled by the software also, a new
parameter with value was implemented.
There are two parameter values possible:
LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical; The magnet disc stops with the falling edge of the sensor
LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2; The magnet disc stops with the rising edge of the sensor
The
improvement includes:
- The slide
leader of the slide loader moveable part was removed.
- The slide
leading spring was mounted onto the magazine channel inner side wall.
- The stop
position of the magnet disc is found with the raising edge of the sensor.
Please take this into account if you are working with the service program!
These modifications improve the stability of the magazine load procedure
and the stability of the slide load procedure.
If the value is
“SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical” or the parameter is missed in the file
MicroscopeConfiguration.ini section [Microscope], the magazine load and unload
operation and the slide insert or removal operation is done in traditional
form, as done until the software version 1.14.
- This solution
has to be used if the slide leader is present on the slide loader’s
moveable part!
LoaderType
= SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical
This type uses the “falling” edge of the magazine feeder sensor!
Slide
leading spring
If the value is
“SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2” in the file MicroscopeConfiguration.ini section
[Microscope], the magazine load and unload operation and the slide insert and
removal operation is modified. The new magazine unit type can be easily
recognized by the presence of the slide leading spring on the inner side wall
and the slide leader of the slide loader’s moveable part is missed.
- This
“LoaderType” should be used if the slide leader is not present on the
slide loader’s moveable part and the slide leading spring is present!
LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2
This type uses the “raising” edge of the magazine feeder sensor!
Important
If the value of
the parameter “LoaderType” was changed in the file MicroscopeConfiguration.ini
section [Microscope], the magazine load and unload procedure and the slide
insert and removal procedure has to be adjusted again (readjust the position of
the magnet disc)!
· If an upgrade of
the magazine unit was done, please implement the parameter “LoaderType” into
the section [Microscope].
Before adjustments
are done with the service program, the appropriate edge of the magazine feeder
sensor has to be selected or checked.
If the value of the parameter
is:
LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical
Or no parameter exists for the loader type (software versions, before
the version 1.15) Select the “falling” edge and
If the value of the parameter
is:
LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2
Select the “raising” edge!
Parameter options of the
section
2a Magazine
input (left) sensor
2b Magazine output (right) sensor
3a, 3b Slide loader
mounting
4 Slide
leading spring with holder
The entire
magazine unit is mounted to the truss by the use of 4 washers and bolts (1).
· If the magazine
unit should be dismounted, please remove the bolts.
· If the position of
the magazine unit should be adjusted, please loosen the bolts barely.
“Truss”; “Magazine unit
position"
1.
Remove the preview
illumination cable BGF-1.
2.
Remove the cable HMF-1 from the slide loader and
remove the entire slide loader also.
3.
Remove the cable DCF-1 from the DC controller unit.
4.
To remove the "Unit position adjustment
cover", remove and loosen respectively the bolts as shown; the cover can
be moved downward. Loosen the adjustment
fixing bolt a little bit.
5.
Remove the mounting bolts for the Magazine unit (1)
see above.
6.
Move the entire magazine unit upward.
1.
Place the magazine
unit onto the truss.
2.
Insert the mounting bolts with the washers and tighten
these carefully.
3.
Connect the cable DCF-1 for the DC controller unit.
4.
Connect the preview illumination cable BGF-1.
5.
Insert the slide loader and connect the cable HMF-1.
6.
Adjust the
magazine loader as described in “Adjust the magazine
load mechanics”.
7.
Adjust or check
the magazine unit position as described in “Define the
slide insert and removal positions”.
8.
Mount the cover of the magazine unit position
adjustment.
9.
Execute the magazine load and unload procedures with
the service program.
10. Execute the slide
loading test of the service program with different slide sizes, slide shapes
and different magazines also.
It may
happen that the magazine unit needs to be removed for some adjustments. if the
position of the magazine unit is already adjusted, and the unit needs to be removed,
the adjusted position would be lost.
With the adjustable bumper (2) the magazine unit
position is defined.
If the magazine unit is placed onto its mounting,
easily push the entire unit against the bumper, tighten the unit position
fixing (3) barely and tighten the Magazine unit mounting bolts from the top.
If the magazine unit position should be adjusted, the
magazine unit mounting bolts (1) must be loosened a little bit to make the magazine
unit barely moveable. With the bumper position (2) adjustment and the position
fixing (3) bolt the entire magazine unit can be moved to the left or to the
right to find the correct position for the slide position guide and the inner
finger of the slide loader in relation to the specimen holder.
The position fixing bolt should be loosened if the position adjustment
bolt is turned clockwise; the entire magazine unit moves to the left.
Important
If the unit position bumper is turned counter clockwise, please pull the
entire Magazine unit manually to the right, until the bumper is reached again!
Adjust the magazine unit
position
If the position adjustment bolt is turned counter clockwise (loosened),
the entire magazine unit can be moved to the right by carefully tightening the
position fixing bolt.
If the adjustment is finished, the position adjustment bolt should touch
the magazine unit and the position fixing bolt should be even tighten. With
this solution the adjusted position is not lost and the correct position of the
magazine unit is found again, even if the entire magazine unit was removed.
Fixing fork; Check and adjust the
magazine position; Adjust the position of
the magazine unit; Adjust the position
of the specimen holder fixing fork
The
magazine has 25 positions and can so
contain up to 25 slides with a thickness of up to
The magazine is moved with the feeder
gears and the rack on the rear of the magazine.
A metal plate (to increase the slide removal security) is integrated.
- The slide positions of the magazine should be
kept clean and dry.
- The magazine does not need adjustment.
Remark
The permanent magnet is used in the
P250 only. Every magazine with 25 slide positions contains a permanent magnet
to reduce the amount of different magazines.
Length: 75.00
to
Width: 25.00
to
Thickness: 00.95
to
Since January
- If the first character of the serial number is an
“S” the tool is used to check the slide dimensions
of the scanners “SCAN, “
- If the first character of the serial number is a “P” the tool is used to check the
slide dimensions of the scanner “P250”.
·
Please check
the slide dimensions before filling the magazine!
The cover slip should be in distance from the lower
slide edge, in distance from the slide holding mechanics of the specimen
holder; not less than 1.0mm from the slide edge.
Because the slide holds the tissue to be scanned, the
slides have to fulfill optical requirements also.
The
slide bottom (the surface, oriented to the condenser) must be clean and
dry.
- Dust and paraffin residues may result in focusing difficulties
(because the
focus pin contacts this surface) or may generate vibration during the
slide scan process, resulting in reduced quality of the virtual tissue.
- The slide is mechanically fixed by the slide clamp on the
barcode area. Therefore, never use stickers or labels on the bottom of the
barcode area, because these produce a deviation of the field of view in
relation to the optical axis; the result will be a “Slanted FOV”.
The top of the slide (the
surface, oriented to the objective) holds the tissue together with the cover
slip.
- Keep the top of the cover slip clean and dry. Dust or paraffin
residues may cause focusing difficulties during the slide scan process,
resulting in reduced quality of the virtual tissue.
- Before inserting the slide into the magazine, wait, until the cover
slip glue is already dry, otherwise, residues may occur on the slide slot
bottom of the magazine and then slide loading difficulties are the result.
“Specimen holder”; “Cleaning optics”
The magazine fixing pins fix the position of
the magazine during slide insertion and slide removal.
- They need no
adjustment or maintenance.
If
the optical sensor OPF-1 and 2 (left and right magazine sensor) is pushed by
the magazine, the light path between LED and photo transistor will be broken by
a pin. This action is recognized by software.
The sensor positions are fixed and they are situated in the magazine feeder
channel bottom plate. The sensors do not need adjustment.
- The sensors
should be kept clean. Because the action path is very short, even small
glass shards or dust is able to prevent the sensor from correct switching.
This sensor is used to detect a magazine,
after a magazine load procedure is finished. Even an empty magazine pushes this
sensor. There are two possible events. Both can occur and are fully equivalent
in function of the magazine load procedure, but the first version should be
preferred. The second version is a compromise, because the magazine feeder
magnet disc has two tasks but offers only one adjustment possibility; the
compromise was done for the magazine input sensor.
1. The magazine arrives onto
the feeder rail and the sensor is pressed
In this case, the software
starts the magazine feeder gear one turn backward (the magazine is moved to the
left) and checks the state of the Magazine input sensor again. The sensor
should be released. If the sensor is released, one turn forward (the magazine
is moved to the right) of the feeder gear follows and the sensor should be
pressed again. This way, the software checks the function of the sensor and the
presence of the magazine. This behavior is preferred and has higher priority
than the second version, described in the following.
2. The magazine arrives onto
the feeder rail and the sensor is not pressed
If the sensor is not pressed
during the magazine loading (the magazine loader sensor HAC-1 is sensed), the
feeder gear is turned forward by one turn (the magazine is moved to the right)
and the sensor state is checked again.
If the sensor is
now pressed, the software detected the presence of the magazine.
If the sensor is not pressed,
the software detected “No magazine present” and stops magazine load and feed
actions and the message “Magazine not loaded” is displayed.
Magazine output (right)
sensor
This sensor is used to detect the correct unload position for the magazine.
The sensor is pushed and will be released if the magazine is moved to the right
(forward). If the software recognized, that the sensor is released, a turn
backward follows (the magazine is moved to the left). If now the sensor is
pressed again, the right magazine unload position is found and the unload
procedure is started, otherwise the software recognizes “magazine jamming
occurred” if the time out of the feeder gear is run out.
The
magazine loader unit consists of:
· Input and
output stack wheels
The magazine load and unload drive
part of the magazine unit moves the magazines in vertical direction, from the
magazine input stack onto the magazine feeder rails and from the magazine
feeder rails to the output stack respectively by the help of the magazine load
wheels. Both actions are realized with the same motor and mechanical drive, so
they are done always at the same time. Meanwhile the actual (finished) magazine
is moved upward to the output stack, the next magazine (with slides to be
loaded) is moved downward from the input stack to the magazine feeder channel.
This combined mechanical movement is always done, even if the first magazine is
being loaded or the last magazine will be unloaded.
The magazine loader motor is a 24V DC motor and is switched on via software with the button “Load
Magazine”. In the service program, this motor can be driven in forward and
backward direction respectively.
The backward direction can be used
for test purposes only without a magazine in the input stack. The software uses
the forward direction only, without exception.
To increase the torque of the motor,
a gear is connected directly.
· The “Magazine Loader Motor” does not need maintenance
or adjustments.
The load gear drives the worm
spindles, both in the same direction. If magazine jamming occurred, the gear
can be driven manually on the motor axle.
· The “Magazine Load Gear” does not need maintenance or
adjustments.
The input
and output stack wheels are situated on both sidewalls of the
magazine feeder channel and are driven by the worm spindle so, that the output stack
wheels moving the magazine upward during the input stack wheels lowering down
the magazine. To reach the opposite movement of the stack wheels, the drive
parts “A” and “D” of the worm spindle are mounted in opposite direction in
relation to the drive parts “B” and “C”. With this solution, the required
movement of the stack wheels can be reached.
- The Stack wheels do not need maintenance.
- By adjusting the
magazine load sensor position, the correct stop position of the stack
wheels can be found.
The “Magazine Loader Sensor” and the “Magazine Feeder
Sensor” are realized with Hall elements. If the south pole of a magnet is over
the hall element the switch is closed and this state is recognized by the
software.
If the other polarity of the magnet
is over the hall element no action occurs.
- The sensor position is adjustable. For adjustment
procedures see the appropriate chapters.
- The sensor does not need maintenance.
The magazine input stack wheel, situated behind the
sensor HAF-1, contains two permanent magnets in a distance of exact 180 degrees
in relation to each other.
The sensor senses so a half revolution of the “Input
and Output stack wheels”.
After loosening the sensor’s mounting bolt, the sensor
can be moved upward or downward respectively. The right sensor position is
found if the stack wheels are in vertical position and the sensor is attached.
- The sensor does not need maintenance.
The magazine
feeder channel consists of the following main parts:
The
inner side wall with:
- Input and output stack
wheels (1) with worm spindle and mountings.
- Inner slide
loader mounting (2).
- 2 Magazine
supporters (3) on the output stack’s side.
- Slide leading
slot and slide leading edge (6); used during the slide insert
procedure.
- Slide leading
spring with spring holder (6); used during the slide insert procedure.
The outer side wall with:
- Input and output stack
wheels (1) with worm spindle and mountings.
- Outer slide
loader mounting.
- Mountings for the
stack rails.
- 1 Magazine
supporter (3) on the output stack’s side.
- Magazine
feeder gears (D).
- Mountings for the magazine
feeder unit (A, B, C).
- Magazine load
sensor (E) with mounting.
The
bottom plate with:
- Magazine unit
mounting (7) to the truss.
- Magazine feeder rails (5).
- Left magazine
(input) sensor (4a) and the right magazine (output) sensor
(4b).
- Magazine
unit position adjustment (9) (on the right side).
- Magazine load gear
(not shown).
- DC controller (10)
(from beneath).
- The entire magazine feeder channel should be kept clean and dry.
- Dust and glass shards can be removed easily with a brush from the magazine
bottom plate and other parts.
On the
inner and on the outer side wall of the magazine channel output stack part
magazine supporters are realized.
The supporters are required, if magazines are present
in the output stack and no magazine is in the magazine feeder channel during a
magazine load procedure is in progress.
If the supporter would be missed (or it works wrong)
the magazine would falling down onto the output stack wheels and magazine
jamming might occur.
Solution
If the magazine moves upward from the feeder channel
in direction to the output stack, the supporters are pushed outward by the
front and the rear part of the magazine (1).
The diameter of the magazine output stack wheels is
some 10th mm more than the height of the support surface (2); so, if
the vertical position of the magazine output stack wheels is reached, the
spring pushes the support surface (2) under the magazine.
If now a magazine unload procedure is in progress
without a magazine in the feeder channel, the magazine(s) moving downward only
some 10th mm and then the magazine movement is stopped by the
support surface (2).
Remark
The supporter exists in newer versions only!
The stack contains the magazines for slide scanning
in the input stack and holds the finished magazines in the output stack. In the
input stack as well as in the output stack maximal 6 magazines can be placed.
Stack rails
The stack rails are rotated
by 30 degrees against the plump vertical (as well as the entire magazine unit)
and so the slides are placed always on the rear of the magazine by gravity.
This solution ensures also a smooth downward and upward movement of the
magazine during the load and unload procedure.
Stack rail mounting
The stack rails are mounted
to the outer magazine channel side wall by 3 bolts for each rail; on the other
end, the stack rails are glued into the stack rail spacer.
Stack rail spacer
It defines the upper
distance of the stack rails to each other and guarantees the parallelism of the
stack rails.
Important
The stability of the stack rail spacer is not designed for any
movements or the transport of the scanner; it is not a handle!
The magazine feeder channel together with the feeder rails
ensures proper movements of the magazine in horizontal direction, to the
desired slide position or to the magazine unload position. If the magazine was
just loaded, the magazine will be moved automatically (controlled by software)
to the first slide position of the magazine.
- The shape of the magazine feeder rail
"D" is shown incorrect. The correct shape is shown in the
chapter "Magazine feeder rails".
The feeder rails are different in shape,
because the magazine is driven only on the back side of the magazine by the
magazine feeder gear. To ensure very small surface resistance during feeding on
the non driven side of the magazine, “Rail
· In some versions, the “D” shape may be altered to an
“O” shape.
· The rails should be kept clean and dry.
· The magazine feeder rails do not need adjustment.
The mounting bolt (A) together
with the force of the spring guarantees the optimal connection between worm
spindle and feeder wheels during feeding. This solution protects the motor also
from overload during magazine feeding.
· If
magazine jamming occurs the spring allows a disconnection of the drive spindle
from the feeder wheel.
· By
disconnecting the drive unit from the feeder wheels manually (Pull), the
mounting plate will be rotated frontward in the mountings (B and C) and so the
magazine becomes manually moveable in the feeder channel (pull the mounting
plate frontward).
· The
spring should not be stretched or shortened!
Pull the mounting
plate frontward
During adjustments, checks and services, the feeder
drive unit can be disconnected manually from the feeder wheels and so the
magazine becomes manually moveable in the magazine feeder channel.
By pulling the mounting
plate frontward, the compression spring of the mounting bolt
will be pressed, the drive of the feeder wheels is disconnected and so:
- The magazine can be shifted to any desired slide position manually.
- The magazine can be removed from the magazine channel manually by
shifting the magazine to the right and
- The magazine can be inserted into the magazine feeder channel
manually from the left or right side.
If the mounting plate is released again, the right
connection between worm spindle and feeder wheels should be checked.
· Rotate
all three feeder wheels a little bit or
· Issue
the Magazine Feeder Forward” command via the service
program.
- The “Magazine feeder gear” does not need maintenance.
The magazine feeder motor is a 24V DC motor and it is
switched on via software to reach the desired slide position; the first slide
position after magazine load or to reach the magazine’s unloading position.
With the
software (SlideScanner.exe or SlideScannerService.exe) the backward direction
of this motor is used to reach previous slide positions also.
To increase the torque of the motor,
a gear is connected directly. The transmission of this gear is different to the
gear of the magazine loader motor.
· The “Magazine feeder motor” does not need maintenance
or adjustments.
Magazine feeder drive
The magazine
feeder gear moves the magazine in the feeder channel via the worm
spindle and the feeder wheels. Because the position of the feeder wheels during
the magazine load action is different from the position during the slide load
action, the magnet disc contains two permanent magnets; it is situated near the
end of the worm spindle. In newer solutions, one revolution of the worm spindle
moves the magazine a half slide position. To reach the next slide position,
exactly two revolutions of the worm spindle is needed. The first magnet of the magnet disc initiates a pulse via the sensor to
the software after each revolution of the worm spindle. The pulse is used to
switch off the motor. For slide insert actions always and only the forward stop
position of the feeder gear is used, during the magazine load action is always
done in the backward stop position. If previous slide positions should be
reached, the worm spindle is turned backward one turn more as necessary, and
then a forward turn of the feeder gear follows to fulfill this requirement.
Please take this into account if you are adjusting the slide insert or removal
position with the
service program!! Before a magazine
load procedure is done, the magnet disc should
be in the start position, otherwise the cogs of the magazine rack and the cogs
of the feeder wheels will not engage correctly.
The
feeder wheels are driven by the worm spindle from the outer side, during the inner
side of the feeder wheel drives the magazine rack.
To prevent a mechanical shorting during magazine
movements in the feeder channel if the magazine connects the middle feeder
wheel or the feeder wheel on the right, the left and right sided feeder wheels
are not fixed in their positions; these are fixed with springs, inside the
wheel mounting.
The acting range of the left and right handed feeder
wheels is about 0.5mm. The acting direction is always outward; it means, the
left feeder wheel has the acting direction to the left and the right handed
feeder wheel has its acting direction to the right.
To ensure a stable slide loading position of the
magazine, the feeder wheel in the middle is fixed and has no acting range.
Feed a magazine
If magazine
feeder jamming occurs often (if the magazine rack drive changes from the
left to the middle feeder wheel or the drive changes from the middle to
the right sided feeder wheel), check the acting range and the acting
direction of the feeder wheels!- To check this, please remove the mounting bolt
with spring, disconnect the feeder sensor and rotate the feeder unit
mounting plate downward.
Important
- If the acting direction of any feeder wheel is different or there
is no acting range, a shorting of
the mechanics of the feeder drive unit occurs (magazine jamming) and
feeding of the magazine will
never work correctly.
The magnet disc, together with the
Feeder sensor is used to stop the magazine movement in the feeder channel at
defined positions; these positions depending on the SCAN version.
In MIRAX SCAN (magazines with 50 slide positions)
· The magnet disc selects the previous or the next slide
position of the magazine by exact 1 revolution; the sensor acts with the
falling edge.
MIRAX SCAN
upgraded (magazines with 25 slide positions)
· The magnet disc selects the previous or the next slide
position of the magazine by exact 2 revolutions; the sensor acts with the
falling edge.
SCAN 150 (magazines with 25 slide
positions)
· The magnet disc selects the previous or the next slide
position of the magazine by exact 2 revolutions; the sensor acts with the
falling edge.
Pannoramic SCAN (magazines with 25 slide
positions and Slide Leading Spring not present; no slide loader type or the LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical)
· The magnet disc selects the previous or the next slide
position of the magazine by exact 2 revolutions; the sensor acts with the
falling edge.
Pannoramic SCAN (magazines with 25
slide positions and Slide Leading Spring; LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2)
· The magnet disc selects the previous or the next slide
position of the magazine by exact 2 revolutions; the sensor acts with the
rising edge.
To define the scanner type in front
of us, the following criteria can be used:
1.
Check the file
“MicroscopeConfiguration.ini” section [Microscope] for the presence and the
type of “LoaderType =”
2.
Check the number of slide positions in the magazine
3.
Check the presence of the slide leader
on the slide loader; if present, the
sensor acts with the falling edge.
4.
Check the presence of the slide leading spring on
the inner side wall; if present, the
sensor acts with the rising edge.
To adjust the magnet disc position in relation to the
spindle or the magazine position, the fixing must be barely loosened to rotate
the disc on the spindle and tightened again before position checks are done.
The magnet disc position is in
connection with two actions, the “slide insert and removal” procedure as well
as the “magazine load and unload” procedure; both depending on the right
adjustment:
“Configure the magazine
unit” and “Magazine
load procedure”
The magnet disc’s stop position
depends on the type of the magazine unit version.
· Since the software version 1.15, the magazine unit
type can be defined.
If there is no parameter of the loader type defined in the file
MicroscopeConfiguration.ini section [Microscope] or the “LoaderType” is:
· LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical; the
magnet disc stops with the falling edge of the sensor; the magnet disc stops on
the magnet (sensor state in the service program: ü=
acting position found).
If the “LoaderType” is:
· LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2; the
magnet disc stops with the rising edge of the sensor; the magnet disc stops
behind the magnet (sensor state in the service program: X =
unattached or unknown).
· If you are adjusting the magazine unit please set the
appropriate “magazine feeder sensor edge” first, after starting the service
program!
1.
Start the service program
“SlideScannerService.exe” and switch active the section “Low level service” and
“DC controller”.
2.
In the tab „Advanced”, section “Magazine
feeder” check or select the “Edge of sensor” to the option “raising” and close the dialogue “Advanced”
with OK!
· In the
same way, the falling edge may be defined.
· In
opposite to the P250, in the Pannoramic SCAN or the SCAN 150 the raising edge
or the falling edge may stop the magazine feeder motor; depending on the scanner version!
1. The magazine load action
The position of the cogs of the magazine
rack and the cogs of the feeder wheels should allow the cogs to match up to
ensure, that the magazine moves downward smoothly and evenly. If the magazine
arrived onto the feeder rails, the magazine input sensor should
be pressed. The correct start position of the magnet disc for the magazine load
procedure is found by rotating the magazine feeder gear backward (with the service program);
see also (1) on the right.
The magnet disc stop position should be anywhere over the second magnet
(depending on the “LoaderType”; see above and on the right) and the sensor
should signal the active state (SlideScannerService.exe, DC controller, Sensor
state, Magazine feeder= on).
2. The slide insert and removal action
The correct slide insert or removal position is also found by adjusting
the “Magnet disc” position. The slide loader outer finger should be in the
middle of the magazine rail. The correct position of the magnet
disc for the slide load procedure is found by rotating the magazine feeder gear
forward (with the service program);
see also (2) on the right.
The slide insert and removal action
has higher priority then the magazine load action, during adjustments!
It is important that after each turn
of the feeder spindle, the stop position of the disc should be always the same,
if the option “Stop with sensor” is selected. To reach this requirement, the
position of the sensor in relation to the magnet disc can be adjusted in a
small range.
The detailed adjustment procedure is
described later.
If the feeder gear has very easy
motion, the stop position of the magnet disc is found beyond the second magnet.
In these cases, the software initiates a backward movement of the feeder motor
and so the sensor still gives a signal. Use this stop position (after the
backward movement was done) to adjust the magazine’s slide rail in relation to
the slide loader outer finger.
· The magnet disc and the sensor do not need
maintenance.
Sensor disc modified; since
2014
Working
principle
By implementing 2 further permanent magnets into the
existing magnet disc, the stability of the recognition of the magazine presence
in the feeder channel is improved. While the slide insert position remains
unchanged; the left magazine sensor will be surely attached if a magazine is
present.
With this solution, the south pole of the permanent
magnets stays longer in time (twice) over the feeder sensor.
· The
sensor “sees” the two or four permanent magnets as a unit of one permanent
magnet; the signal is not pulsed!
The exchange of the magnet disc requires adjustments
regarding the slide insert position and the magazine load position!
· Adjust
always the slide insert position first, and then check the magazine load action
in relation to the found slide insert position.
The disc modification or exchange does not require
software modification; so the upgrade may be executed regardless the software
version.
Components and construction of the slide loader
The slide loader is
mounted on the magazine unit but is not a part of the magazine unit; it is a
separate spare part instead.
· Nevertheless, adjustments
may be required if the slide loader is exchanged!
The slide loader movable part has only two positions,
the inner and the outer position. The entire mechanics is constructed so, that
only these two positions are defined. The state “Inner position reached” is
signaled to a sensor via the “Sensor operating rod”.
Early
version of slide loader
The DC
motor drives via a gear the spindle and so the moveable part of the slide loader.
In the clutch housing the connection between gear and spindle is
realized. This way, the inner and outer finger can be moved into the specimen
holder of the X-Y-stage to insert a slide, or return, from the specimen holder
to the slide position of the magazine, to remove a slide.
Because
the mechanical construction has inertia, an inner and outer position fixing
was realized. This solution eliminates the inertia and guarantees
always the same limit position for the inner and outer position of the slide
loader moveable part. The slide loader movable part reaches always the outer
position fixing, but the inner position fixing is a backward movement limiter
only (against inertia); it is not a requirement that the inner position fixing
is reached always.
·
During the inner sensor stays active if
the inner position is reached, the outer position sensor stays released when
the outer final position is reached.
“Check the slide
loader sensors”
Newer
version of the slide loader
To increase the stability of the slide insert
procedure the construction of the slide loader was modified since the software
version 1.16.
The
inner and the outer sensors are situated in the clutch housing. The “Sensor
operating rod” removes the sensor magnet (situated on the sensor spring 1) from
the Hall element for the inner sensor.
This event is signaled to the software and the
software will switch off the DC motor, the inner position is reached.
If the moveable part of the slide loader moves
outward, from the inner position to the outer position, the magnet, situated on
the sensor spring 2 will be moved over its Hall element for the outer sensor;
this state is signaled to the software and the motor will be switched off. A
spring (not shown) in the outer end position moves the slide loader moveable
part into the “outer position fixing” by the help of the "Outer sensor
operator"; releases so the sensor and the final outer position is reached.
· The slide leader
is no longer used (since the software version 1.16); its task is replaced by
the "Slide leading spring" together with the "Slide leading
edge" and the shape of the inner and outer finger.
· Please take care
on the "Sensor cover", it may be deformed easily!
Since the summer of the year
2014 the same construction of the specimen holder and slide insert removal
mechanics is used as in the P250.
· Only mechanical
modifications existing on the moveable part (Slide clamp lifter and inner
finger) the main construction and working principles are not changed.
· For related
components and adjustments, please refer also to relevant chapters in the P250.
Magazine unit of P250; Slide
loader; Adjustment
procedures
Limit
positions
Because the mechanical construction has inertia, an inner and outer position limit was realized. This solution eliminates the
inertia and guarantees always the same limit position for the inner and outer
position of the slide loader moveable part. The slide loader movable part
reaches always the outer position limit, but the inner position limit is a
backward movement limiter only (against inertia); it is not a requirement that
the inner position limit is reached always.
·
During the inner sensor stays active if
the inner position is reached, the outer position sensor stays released when
the outer final position is reached.
“Check the slide
loader sensors”
Components
The
inner and the outer sensors are situated in the clutch housing. The “Sensor
operating rod” removes the sensor magnet (situated on the sensor spring 1) from
the Hall element for the inner sensor.
This event is signaled to the software and the software
will switch off the DC motor, the inner position is reached.
If the moveable part of the slide loader moves
outward, from the inner position to the outer position, the magnet, situated on
the sensor spring 2 will be moved over its Hall element for the outer sensor;
this state is signaled to the software and the motor will be switched off. A
spring (not shown) in the outer end position moves the slide loader moveable
part into the “outer position fixing”; releases so the sensor and the final
outer position is reached.
- Please take
care on the "Sensor cover", it may be deformed easily
If the moveable
part of the slide loader moves outward, from the inner position to the outer
position, the "Outer sensor operator" moves the magnet, situated on
the sensor spring 2 will be moved over the Hall element for the outer sensor.
This state is signaled to the software and the motor will be switched off. A
spring (not shown) in the outer sensor operator moves the slide loader moveable
part into the “outer limit position”; releases so the sensor and the outer
position is reached. While the inner sensor stays
active if the inner position is reached, the outer
sensor stays released when the outer position is reached.
· The sensor state on the
right is shown in the final outer position
“Check the slide
loader sensors”
Handling the slide loader
The slide
loader should be hold at the motor and / or the clutch housing, but please does
not touch the sensor cover, it may be deformed easily.
Move the slide loader moving part
manually
For test purposes, the moving part of the slide loader
can be moved manually also. If the slide loader cable HMJ-1 is disconnected,
the movement is done easier.
The slide loader should be hold at the motor and / or
the clutch housing, but does not touch the sensor cover, it can be deformed easily.
The moveable part can be pulled on the mounting bolt of the inner finger or
pushed on the surface near to the inner finger or outer finger mounting.
- To avoid deforming, other parts should not be touched for this
purpose.
Check
the slide loader sensors
To check the inner sensor state, move the slide
loader into the inner end position by clicking the right hand arrow button of
the “Slide loader in or out” part of the service program. If the end position is
reached, the sensor state should be attached and stays attached, as signaled by
the sensor state “slide loader arm in the scope” (see below).
To check the outer sensor move the slide loader
moveable part backward by clicking the left hand arrow button several times of
the “Slide loader in or out” part of the service program.
By pushing the slide loader moveable part backward
manually and then releasing it, the sensor state “Slide loader arm out from the
scope” should be attached and released either. Check this behavior several
times.
Faulty behavior
Push
the moving part of the slide loader against the outer sensor operator manually.
The sensor state is shown with
, this
means, the sensor is active.
Now release the slide loader moving part, the spring
in the outer sensor operator should move the moving part to the outer limit
position and the sensor state have to be 
X.
- If the sensor stays attached after releasing it, faulty behavior
occurred and the SlideScanner.exe program will not finishing the start up
procedure!
- If this behavior occurred, the moveable part of the slide loader
moves to strong or the force of the spring in the outer sensor operator is
too low.
The slide loader is mounted onto the two side walls of
the magazine channel as shown in the figure on the right.
· Both
mountings include a horizontal and a vertical fixing for the slide loader
position.
The exact horizontal position of the slide loader in
relation to the specimen holder is defined by adjusting the entire magazine
unit position with the “Magazine
unit mounting” and the “Magazine unit
adjustment” bolts respectively and was discussed above.
Because the “Slide
loader inner finger” moves into the specimen holder, it’s height in
relation to the slide clamp (the vertical position) must be adjusted also and
will be discussed later.
Remove
the slide loader
1.
Disconnect the Slide loader cable “HMF-
2.
Move the slide loader moving part into the
specimen holder manually, until the inner finger stays behind the slide clamp.
3.
Take the slide loader inner part from
below (the part named as “2. PULL”) with your right hand and push the “Plastic
Holder” (“1. PUSH”) with the thumb to the left a little bit, until the “Inner
vertical fixing” is disconnected.
4.
Now pull the inner part (2= PULL) of the
slide loader upward a little bit.
5.
Shift the entire slide loader frontward
(3) a little bit to disconnect the “Outer vertical fixing”.
6.
Now the entire slide loader can be removed
in upward direction (4).
Mount
the slide loader
7.
Move
the specimen holder to Y-home 1,2 and X-home 1,2.
8.
Move the slide loader moveable part toward
to the inner end position. The inner finger should be behind the “Slide clamp”,
inside of the specimen holder.
9.
Fit the slide loader with the “Slide
loader mounting
- Insert the slide loader outer part slanted, and then push the outer
part into the outer mounting. This way, the compression spring may be
stressed easier.
- Take care on the sensor cover, please do not deform it!
10. Close
the gap between clutch housing and magazine feeder channel wall so that the
vertical fixing is connected right.
11. Push
the slide loader to the left and downward until the horizontal and vertical position
fixing of the “Inner slide loader mounting” is connected
alright; see “Mount slide loader
- The slide loader is connected well if the horizontal and vertical
fixings on both sides of the slide loader are connected right and no
significant gaps are visible.
Slide handling parts
Early version of slide loader
The slide leader has two useful surfaces
during slide loading. The “Slide leading surface” brings the slide in vertical
position from the left side during slide loading; and the “Slide holding
surface” presses the slide into the magazine rail with the force of the slide
leader spring, to fixing the slide in vertical position. Meanwhile slide
removal, the slide holding surface pushes the slide into the slide rail of the
magazine.
Used only in the version: LoaderType
= SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical; until the software version 1.14.
“Configure the magazine
unit” and “The
magazine load procedure”
Specimen fingers until SW version 1.14
The shape (1) of the outer finger helps to positioning the slide
into the middle of the outer finger (it should be the middle of the magazine
rail also) if the outer slide edge is attached during slide insertion.
- During slide removal this part of the outer
finger has no function.
In case of slide insertion the inner
finger does not touch the slide, but it helps with the edge (3) to open the
slide clamp of the specimen holder. This way, the slide insert procedure is
done easier.
During slide removal the surfaces (2)
touches the upper and the lower part of the inner slide edge.
- By adjusting the height of the inner slide
finger, the slide clamp of the specimen holder will be opened, even if the
widest and thickest allowed slide sizes are loaded.
Adjust the inner finger vertical position until SW version
1.14
By loosening the
mounting bolt of the slide loaders inner finger, its position can be adjusted.
The adjustment is correct, if the inner finger even passes the slide leader
bolt without hitting it. By moving the slide loader moveable part manually, the
inner finger should even pass the bolt for the slide leader up or down
movement. If the distance is too much, the inner finger can hit the slide clamp
of the specimen holder if the slide loader moves backward after slide
insertion.
Specimen fingers
These specimen fingers are used on produced scanners since the SW
version 1.16 (October 2012).
The shape (1) of the outer finger helps to positioning the slide into the
middle of the outer finger (it should be the middle of the magazine rail also)
if the outer slide edge is attached during slide insertion.
- During slide removal this part of the outer
finger has no function.
In case of slide insertion the inner
finger does
not touch the slide.
During slide removal the surfaces (2)
touches the upper and the lower part of the inner slide edge.
- By adjusting the height of the inner slide
finger, the slide clamp of the specimen holder will be opened, even if the
widest and thickest allowed slide sizes are loaded.
Height
of the inner finger
The height of the inner finger is correct, if the inner finger crosses even
the statically part of the slide loader, during moving to the outer end
position.
- The “Slide clamp lifter ball bearing” moves
on the runway of the “slide clamp lifter” with a very little mechanical
resistance and, as defined by the shape of the runway of the clamp lifter,
it lifts up the slide clamp until the first part (the inner edge) of the
slide is fully inserted.
- Then it lowers down the slide clamp again.
Remember, the slide may differ in length, width and thickness.
The
leading of the slide from the magazine to the specimen holder during the slide insert
action requires special slide leading means.
The successful slide insert operation depends on:
- The correct position
of the magazine unit; so the slide leading edge of the slide position
guide will be in plane with the right hand edge of the specimen holder;
the inner finger of the slide loader even passes the specimen holder’s
right hand edge.
- The correct height of the
slide loader’s inner finger; so the slide clamp may
be opened correctly to insert the widest slides also.
- The correct distance of the slide leading spring
to the slide leading edge (about 1.4mm); so the slide will be moved to the
slide leading edge and will be shifted on it.
1= Magazine supporter
2= Specimen holder fixing fork
3= Slide leading spring with holder
4= Slide position guide
5= Inner slide loader fixing
The
slide leading spring leads the slide to the slide leading edge of the slide
position guide and by shifting the slide along the leading edge, the horizontal
position of the slide is defined.
Slide
position guide
The slide position guide defines with the slide
leading edge the horizontal position of the slide during slide insertion.
The slide leading slot bottom is used to define the
vertical position of the slide during slide insertion.
- During slide removal the parts have no function.
During slide insertion and slide removal, the Specimen
holder fixing fork fixes the horizontal position of the specimen holder. This
is mainly important for a successful slide insert operation.
P250 “Specimen
holder fixing fork”
Slide
leading spring
In the non-working
position, the angulated end of the slide leading spring must not hit the inner
side wall; only this way a deforming of the spring can be avoided.
- The non-working
position is reached if the slide loader stays in the outer position.
In
the working position, the distance of the spring to the slide leading edge
is important.
If we assume, that the maximal slide thickness is 1.20mm and the
thickness of the cover slip is 0.17mm, the resulting value together with tissue
will be 1.37mm, so about 1.40mm distance to the slide leading edge is required.
·
During slide insertion, the slide leading spring must not
perform force against the cover slip.
The position of the slide leading spring is correct, if the distance to
the slide leading edge is:
1.37mm ≤ distance to the slide leading edge ≤ 1.45mm;
measured to the closest part of the spring.
Gap
to the slide
For this measurement, please use a slide with a thickness of 1.20mm
without cover slip.
0.2mm ≤ distance to the slide (without cover slip) ≤ 0.30mm;
measured to the closest part of the spring.
Slide
position guide
The slide leading
edge and slot is situated in the inner side wall of the
magazine channel. The slide “Leading Slot” bottom should be 0.1mm higher than
the lower edge of the specimen holder during slide insertion. The slide
“Leading edge” should be in the same plane with the specimen holder right hand
edge; see also ‘Adjust the slide insert
position in X-direction”.
The shape of the “Leading slot”, the construction of
the slide holding mechanics of the specimen holder (Slide clamp and lower edge)
and the width of the slide position in the magazine are together the reason for
the maximal allowed slide thickness of 1.05mm.
The slide clamp of the
specimen holder, together with its lower edge holds the slide during scan
operation or moving the specimen holder inside the scannable area. If the slide
insert or removal position is reached, the slide clamp is loosened via the
slide tightener; only the small force of the “Soft Spring” situated behind the
slide clamp will hold the slide clamp and the slide can be moved easily.
If the slide insert or removal position will be
reached, the Slide tightener touches the magazine feeder channel from
below meanwhile the specimen holder moves in upward direction and forces so the
“Strong spring”, situated behind the slide clamp to release the slide clamp
(details about the
specimen holder mechanics are discussed in the file “X-Y-stage”).
- During slide insert operations, the right hand edge of the specimen
holder has to be in the same plane as the slide leading edge.
The following steps describe the slide insert and removal procedure as
it is done by software; until the software version 1.14.
Slides
insert procedure
1.
The focus pin goes to the position +800 steps to bring
the specimen holder into the nominal slide insert position horizontally
(Z-direction). In this position the slide “Leading edge” of the slide position
guide should be in the same vertical plane with the “Right hand edge” of the
specimen holder.
2.
The specimen holder goes to the slide insert position in
X (InsertSlidePositionX) and Y (InsertSlidePositionY1) direction. The value for
the slide insert position in Y direction is always +400 steps.
3.
Meanwhile the specimen holder moves upward (-X
direction), the slide tightener will be moved to the lower edge of the magazine
feeder channel and releases so the slide clamp; it will be hold only by the
force of the soft spring; the slide can be moved easy into the specimen holder.
4.
If the slide insert position is reached, the slide
loader motor is started with a time of 600ms. The outer finger touches the
slide edge and moves the slide in direction to the specimen holder; meanwhile
the shape of the outer finger helps to find the
middle of the rail.
5.
A few 100 ms later, the slide leader moves downward to
the upper edge of the slide and brings so the slide into vertical position with
the help of the “Slide leading surface”; then the “Slide holding surface” holds
the slide on the upper edge with the force of the “Slide leader spring”.
6.
The “Slide leading slot” leads the slide lower part to
the specimen holder “Lower edge” and the “Leading edge” defines the position of
the slide in relation to the “Right hand edge” of the specimen holder; both
should be in the same plane.
7.
If the inner finger arrives to the slide clamp of the
specimen holder, the edge and the shape of
the slide clamp is opening the slide clamp and the first part of the slide will
be inserted; meanwhile the slide leader releases the upper edge of the slide.
8.
If the time of 600ms is over, the specimen holder
moves to the final Y-position (InsertSlide PositionY2, 3). Both parameters have
always the same value.
9.
The slide loader motor is started again until the
inner sensor of the slide loader is attached. The software will switch off the
motor and the inner sensor stays attached; the slide is inserted.
10. Now the specimen
holder moves with the slide in +X direction (downward) with the value of the
parameter DeafultPositionX nearly to the limit Xmax.
11. The slide loader
motor is started again, but now in opposite direction until the slide loader
outer sensor is attached and the slide loader motor will be switched off by
software. A spring (not shown) moves now the slide loader moveable part to the
outer position fixing, meanwhile the outer sensor will be released; the
software checks the released state of the sensor after 300 ms
(SlideLoaderDelayTimeBeforeSensor) and the slide insert procedure is finished
or, if the sensor is not released or the sensor was not attached and the time
was run out, the message “Slide loader arm got stuck during process!” will be
issued.
Slide removal procedure
1.
The focus pin goes to the position +800 steps to bring
the specimen holder into the nominal slide removal position horizontally
(Z-direction).
2.
The specimen holder goes to the positions X-Home1,2
and Y-Home1,2.
3.
To remove a slide, the specimen holder moves first
with the slide in +X direction (downward) with the value of the parameter
DeafultPositionX nearly to the limit Xmax. The correct Y-remove position is
defined with the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionY.
4.
The software will switch on the Slide Loader motor
until the inner sensor will be attached.
5.
Now the specimen holder goes in –X direction (upward)
and moves so the slide between the inner and outer finger of the slide loader.
The end position is defined by the value of the parameter
RemoveSlidePositionX1.
6.
Meanwhile the specimen holder moves upward (-X
direction), the slide tightener will be moved to the lower edge of the magazine
unit and releases so the slide clamp; the slide will be held by the Slide clamp
with the force of the soft spring only.
7.
The Slide Loader motor is switched on in backward
direction for 300ms and then stops the movement; the surfaces and of the Inner Finger
touches the slide inner edge and moves so the slide backward; the outer part of
the slide stays over the magazine rail; the inner finger stays inside the
specimen holder before the slide clamp and the slide leader does not touch the
slides upper edge.
8.
Now the specimen holder goes downward to the position,
defined by the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionX2 and places so the
slide outer part over the bottom of the magazine rail.
9.
The slide loader motor is switched on again in
backward direction; the slide will be pushed into the rail of the slide
position of the magazine by the slide leader nearly until the outer sensor is
attached; the slide loader motor will be switched off by the software. At the
end of this procedure a spring (not shown) moves now the slide loader moveable
part to the outer position fixing, meanwhile the outer sensor will be released
and the software checks the released state of the sensor after 300ms
(SlideLoaderDelayTimeBeforeSensor). The slide removal procedure is finished.
10. With the magazine
feeder, the next or any slide position in the magazine can be found to select
the slide to be inserted next.
If the “LoaderType” is:
LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2; the magnet disc stops with the rising edge of the sensor
“Slide insert and removal”
procedure of the P250!
The magazine load procedure is done in 2 ways, depending on the value of
the parameter “LoaderType” in the file MicroscopeConfiguration.ini section
[Microscope].
The
following procedure is true, if the value is
LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical
Or the parameter does not exist
in the file MicroscopeConfiguration.ini section [Microscope].
1.
If the program SlideScanner.exe starts up, the
following actions are done:
a.
The slide loader is moved backward, to the outer
fixing position.
b.
The feeder gear had done at least one turn backward;
the sensor disc stays in the magazine load position; see also “The magnet disc”.
2.
The magazine load procedure is started via
SlideScanner.exe (or the service program)
with the button “Load Magazine”.
3.
The magazine load motor and the input stack wheels are
driven forward and the magazine moves downward to the magazine feeder rails. At
the same time, the magazine (if any) is moved from the feeder channel to the
output stack.
4.
If the magazine input wheels have done a half turn,
the magazine load sensor will be attached and the software will switch off the
magazine load motor.
5.
At the same time, as the magazine arrives onto the
magazine feeder rails the magazine input sensor will be attached; so the
software knows that a magazine is present on the magazine feeder rails (see
also the description “Magazine
input sensor”).
6.
The software starts the magazine feeder gear one turn
backward (to the left) and checks the state of the left magazine sensor (see
also “The Magazine
input sensor”). The sensor should not be pressed.
7.
If the sensor is not pressed, one turn forward (the
magazine moves to the right) of the feeder gear follows and the sensor should be
pressed again. This way, the software checks the function of the sensor and the
presence of the magazine.
8.
Now the magazine is moved to the actual slide position, shown
by the slide position selector of SlideScannerScan.exe.
1.
If the last slide to be scanned had been removed into
the magazine, the magazine feeder gear moves the magazine to the right
(forward), until the magazine output sensor was released.
2.
The software counts the pulses of the magnet disc of
the magazine feeder and checks always the state of the right hand sensor
(Magazine output sensor).
3.
If the state of the magazine output sensor is
released, a turn backward (the magazine moves to the left) follows and the
magazine output sensor is checked again.
4.
If the sensor is pressed, the magazine load motor is
started, the output stack wheels rotates for a half turn and moving so the
magazine into the output stack; in the same time the next magazine (if any exists)
is moved from the input stack onto the feeder rail.
5.
The software checks the magazine input sensor (left
magazine sensor). If it is not attached (see also the description “Magazine input sensor”),
the magazine load and unload procedure is finished; otherwise go to step 5 of
the “magazine load procedure”.
The
following procedure is true, if the value is
LoaderType
= SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2
- If the
program SlideScanner.exe starts up, the following actions are done:
- The slide
loader is moved backward, to the outer fixing position.
- The feeder
gear had done at least one turn backward; the sensor disc stays in the
magazine load position; see also “The magnet disc”.
- The magazine
load procedure is started via SlideScanner.exe (or the service program) with the button
“Load Magazine”.
- The magazine
load motor and the input stack wheels are driven forward and the magazine
moves downward to the magazine feeder rails. At the same time, the
magazine (if any) is moved from the feeder channel to the output stack.
- If the
magazine input wheels have done a half turn, the magazine load sensor will
be attached and the software will switch off the magazine load motor.
Until now, all is the same as before; the modification follows now.
- The magazine input sensor may be pressed or not,
the software changes the position of the magnet disc from “Stop backward”
to “Stop forward” first, before the state of the magazine input sensor is
checked!
If the magazine input sensor stays attached, the
magazine will be feed to the first (or the actual) slide insert position.
If the magazine input sensor stays released, the state
“Magazine not present” will be detected and all further operations are aborted.
Magazine unload procedure
- If the last
slide to be scanned had been removed into the magazine, the magazine
feeder gear moves the magazine to the right (forward), until the magazine
output sensor was released.
- The software counts
the pulses of the magnet disc of the magazine feeder and checks always the
state of the right hand sensor (Magazine output sensor).
- If the state
of the magazine output sensor is released, a turn backward (the magazine
moves to the left) follows and the magazine output sensor is checked
again.
- If the sensor
is pressed, the magazine load motor is started, the output stack wheels
rotates for a half turn and moving so the magazine into the output stack;
in the same time the next magazine (if any exists) is moved from the input
stack onto the feeder rails.
- The software
checks the magazine input sensor (left magazine sensor). If it is not
attached (see also the description “Magazine input sensor”),
the magazine load or unload procedure is finished; otherwise go to step
“E” of the “magazine load procedure”.
Define
and adjust the slide insert and removal positions
The task is, to define the parameter values mentioned below, and to do
the required adjustments so, that the slides insert and removal procedure is
done evenly and smoothly, without slide jamming or even slide cracking.
Furthermore, the slide insert or removal action, done by software, should not
cause collision of the slide loader inner finger with the slide clamp of the
specimen holder; even if there was no slide in the magazine and a slide removal
action is executed. The following adjustments assume that the focus unit is
adjusted well and the hardware limits for the X-Y-stage are already defined.
The slide insert position
adjustment is done in the following steps and with the following parts:
1.
Adjust the position of the
magazine unit; so the position of the slide loader and the “Slide
leading edge” in the side wall of the magazine channel in relation to the right
hand edge of the specimen holder will be adjusted.
2.
Adjust the position
of the magnet disc; so the position of the slide loader outer finger in
relation to the magazine rail will be defined. The outer finger and the slide
should be in the middle of the magazine rail.
See also “Configure the magazine
unit” and “The
magazine load procedure”
3.
Adjust the position of
the inner finger of the slide loader and define the value of the
parameter “DeafultPositionX”
(See
also above “To adjust the position of the inner finger” in the description of
the slide loader). This adjustment guarantees that the inner finger can cross
the slide clamp of the specimen holder in the step 11 of the slide insert
procedure and in the step 4 of the slide removal procedure.
4.
Define the value of the parameter “DeafultPositionX”
If the X-stage is in the
position “DeafultPositionX”, the slide loader
inner finger should be able to cross the slide clamp of the specimen holder
without touching it. For this adjustment insert a slide with the maximal width
of 26.00mm. Check this behavior manually first, then electromechanically by
moving the slide loader moveable part. If hitting occurs, check the position of
the inner finger, see also “To adjust the position of the inner finger” in the
description of the slide loader and check the correctness of the parameter
value ObjectGuideXMax.
5.
Adjust the slide insert
position in X-direction for the specimen holder; so the position of the lower
edge of the specimen holder in relation to the slot of the slide leading guide
will be defined. The conclusion of this adjustment is the value of the
parameter “InsertSlidePositionX”.
6.
Adjust the final insert position
in Y-direction of the specimen holder; define the value of the
parameters “InsertSlidePositionY2,3”.
The
goal of this adjustment is, that:
a.
The slide loader outer finger never touches the slide
clamp of the specimen holder during slide insertion and
b.
The slide never touches the side wall of the magazine
channel, even if the specimen holder is in the Y-position -800 steps and is
moved in X-direction (the Y-position of -800 steps is used to capture the
preview).
Steps
for slide removal:
1.
Define the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionY.
2.
Define the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionX1
3.
Define the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionX2
Adjust the position
of the magazine unit
Task: The slide, if shifted
backward from the specimen holder even touches the slide leading edge.
1.
See also the
description “The
magazine unit position adjustment” in the chapter “Components and mechanical
construction of the magazine unit”.
2.
Set the focus
position to +800 steps, the nominal slide insert position in Z-direction.
3.
Insert a slide
manually and the specimen holder should be
in the position Y home 1,2 and X home 1,2.
4.
Shift the slide
manually and carefully from the specimen holder backward, in direction to the
magazine until the slide leading edge will be touched. The position of the
specimen holder (Z-direction) should not be changed during this action!
5.
Check and
adjust the magazine unit position so, that the slide leading edge is even
touched by the slide.
6.
Shift the slide
manually return into the specimen holder so, that the specimen holder can move
downward without slide cracking. With the service program go downward 26000
steps in +X direction and return to the actual X position. In this case, the
slide tightener is disconnected from the magazine unit and the done adjustment
becomes effect. This step 6 should be done after each magazine unit movement,
even if only small adjustments are done!
7.
Repeat steps 4
to 6 until the requirements are fulfilled.
8.
Check this adjustment again if the procedure “Adjust the position
of the magnet disc” had been done.
Adjust the position of the magnet disc
Task: The slide, if shifted backward from the
specimen holder fits the middle of the magazine rail.
1.
See also the description
“The magnet disc” in the chapter “The magazine feeder
part”.
2.
Check the stop position of the magnet (disc) in
relation to the Hall element and memorize it.
3.
Set the focus position
to +800 steps, the nominal slide insert position in Z-direction.
4.
Insert a slide
manually into the specimen holder so, that
the outer part of the slide stays over the magazine rail.
5.
Adjust the magnet disc position on the feeder spindle
by rotating the feeder spindle manually so, that the slide is in the middle of
the magazine rail, and the magnet disc is in the previously checked, memorized
stop position.
6.
Check this adjustment in the positions 2, 13 and 24 of
the magazine and correct the found position, if necessary.
7.
Check this adjustment again if the procedure “Adjust the position of the
magazine unit” had been done.
Check and adjust the magazine position
Task
Adjust the slide position of the magazine so, that the outer
specimen finger is in the middle of the slide slot of the magazine.- The adjustment is done by positioning the
“The magnet disc” on the feeder spindle.
The adjustment assumes that the position
of the magazine unit is correct.
1. Insert a
magazine manually or by the use of the service program,
prepared with two slides, nearly in the middle of the magazine as shown on the
right (“Magazine”).
2.
Set the feeder rising or
falling edge as required
3.
With the part “magazine feeder” of the
service program move the magazine in the feeder channel until the slide loader
stays over the “empty position”, between the two slides, and the stop position of
the magnet disc is
“Stop forward”, the slide insert position.
4.
Move the slide loader moving part manually
a little bit into the scanner until the outer finger can be seen easily.
5.
Push the two slides toward the outer
finger.
6.
If the gaps on both sides of the outer
finger are not equal, memorize the “Stop forward” position then rotate the
magnet disc until the gaps are equal. Memorize this position also.
7.
Loosen the magnet disc fixing and rotate
the magnet disc by the difference of the two memorized positions and tighten
the fixing bolt.
8.
With the service program move the slide
loader moving part into its outer end position, rotate the feeder gear backward
two turns, then rotate the feeder gear forward until the empty position of the
magazine is found again, the stop position of the magnet disc is “Stop
forward”.
9.
Repeat from step 4 until the gaps are
equal on both sides.
If the adjustment is finished, check the correctness
of the found position by executing the magazine load test. Check all the
magazines without any slide in any magazine; see also: “Check the magazine load procedure”.
Adjust the slide
insert position in X-direction
Requirements
Two slides with a thickness of 1.05mm, equal in shape, without cut
corners.
Task: Find the height of the slide in the specimen
holder in relation to the slide, pushed from the magazine; the height should be
equal at the shown position. If this position of the specimen holder in
X-direction is found, add to the actual X-position 100 steps and set the value
for the parameter InsertSlidePositionX.
1.
Set the positions Y-Home1,2 and X-Home1,2 of the
X-Y-Stage.
2.
Set the focus
position to +800 steps, the nominal slide insert position in Z-direction.
3.
Set the X-direction to the value of 1600 steps.
4.
Set the Y-direction to the value of the parameter InsertSlidePositionY1 (=400 steps).
5.
Remove the slide loader and insert a slide without cut
corners manually into the specimen holder.
6.
In the magazine position behind the specimen holder
insert a second slide of the same shape and the same size.
7.
Push the slide in
the magazine position forward to the outer edge of the inserted slide.
8.
Modify the specimen holder X-position (service program, X-direction) so, that
both slides are equal in height. You can check this by using a screw driver and
moving it on the upper edge of both slides, over the fitting edge. If the
height of both slides is not equal, a step can be recognized. An accuracy of
100 steps is enough.
9.
If the height of both slides is equal add to the found
value 100 steps and the value of the parameter InsertSlidePositionX is found.
10. Update the value
of the parameter “InsertSlidePositionX” in the file “MicroscopeConfiguration.ini” and save the file.
Set the value of “InsertSlidePositionY1’
The value is set to be -500steps. If this limit is less then the
hardware limit “ObjectGuideYMin”, please use a value
of
InsertSlidePositionY1
= ObjectGuideYMin + 100steps
In earlier released SCAN versions, this value were set to +400steps.
· The value is not
critical in question of slide operations.
Adjust the final insert
position in Y-direction
Task: Set the value for the parameters “InsertSlidePositionY2,3” so, that the
specimen holder is never touched. Remember, that both parameters must have
always the same value!
1.
Set the positions Y-Home1,2 and X-Home1,2 of the
X-Y-Stage.
2.
Set the X-direction to the value of the parameter InsertSlidePositionX.
3.
Set the Y-direction to the value of the parameter InsertSlidePositionY1 (=400 steps).
4.
Push the slide loader moveable part manually, until
the slide clamp of the specimen holder is reached by the outer finger.
5.
Adjust the specimen holder Y-position (service
program, Y-direction) so, that the outer finger of the slide loader has a gap
of about
6.
The right value for the parameters “InsertSlidePositionY2,3” is found if the slide loader
is fully pushed into the specimen holder (check this behavior manually) and a
minimal gap is given between slide loader outer finger and slide clamp of the
specimen holder. If the gap is too much, the slide will touch the side wall of
the magazine channel if the specimen holder is in the Y-position -800 steps
(used for the preview capture) and the slide is moved in X-direction.
7.
Update the value of the parameters “InsertSlidePositionY2,3” in the file “MicroscopeConfiguration.ini” and save the file.
Define the value of the parameter “DeafultPositionX”
DeafultPositionX = ObjectGuideXMax -100steps
Update the value of the
parameter “DeafultPositionX” in the file “MicroscopeConfiguration.ini” and save the file.
Define the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionY
Add six hundred
steps to the value of the parameter “InsertSlidePositionY2,3”.
RemoveSlidePositionY
= InsertSlidePositionY2,3 + 600steps
Update the value
of the parameter “RemoveSlidePositionY” in the file “MicroscopeConfiguration.ini” and save the file.
Define the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionX1
RemoveSlidePositionX1 = InsertSlidePositionX -1000steps or, if
impossible, the limit X-min.
Update the value of the parameter “RemoveSlidePositionX1” in the file “MicroscopeConfiguration.ini” and save the file.
Define the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionX2
1.
Define the value for the parameter “RemoveSlidePositionX2” (the height of
the specimen holder in X-direction) so, that the Edge (3) of the inner finger crosses the slide clamp
easily, if no slide is inserted.
2.
Update the value of the parameter “RemoveSlidePositionX2” in the file “MicroscopeConfiguration.ini” and save the file.
Adjust the magazine load mechanics
Since the software version 1.15 the
magazine feeder disc movement is stopped with the rising edge of the magazine
feeder sensor, depending on the magazine unit type, see “Configure the magazine
unit” and see also above “Magnet
disc”.
In this case of “LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2; the magnet disc stops with the rising edge of
the sensor; therefore, please refer to the chapter “Adjust
the magazine load mechanics” of the file “P250_Magazine_unit_slide_handling”.
The following part is true, if the LoaderType is LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical;
if the magnet disc movement is stopped with the falling edge of the magazine
feeder sensor.
“Configure the magazine
unit” and “Magnet disc”.
In this case of “LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2; the magnet disc stops with the rising edge of
the sensor; therefore, please refer to the chapter “Adjust the magazine
load mechanics” of the file “P250_Magazine_unit_slide_handling”.
The following part is true, if the LoaderType is LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical;
if the magnet disc movement is stopped with the falling edge of the magazine
feeder sensor; see “Configure
the magazine unit” and also above “Magnet
disc”.
1.
Start the service program SlideScannerService.exe and switch
active the section “Low level service” and “DC controller”.
2.
Select the “rising” edge of the “Magazine feeder
sensor”
3.
With the “Magazine Feeder” backward button the feeder
gear brings the magnet disc into the start position for magazine load.
4.
With the “Magazine loader” forward button bring the
magazine input and output stack wheels into the start position.
5.
Check the “Magazine loader” sensor state and the
“Magazine Feeder” sensor state as shown on the right.
“Configure the magazine
unit” and “Magazine
load procedure”
6.
Check the stop position of the input and output stack
wheels.
The stop position of the
stack wheels should be perpendicular, and in plane with the bottom of the
magazine channel.
7.
Adjust the magazine
loader sensor position so, that this requirement (step 5) is reached, it is not
a critical adjustment; repeat steps 3 to 6 until the requirements are
fulfilled.
8.
Insert a magazine into the input stack and with the
“Magazine loader” forward button start a magazine load. The magazine should
move smoothly and evenly downward, without stumble.
9.
If stumble occurs, the magazine feeder gear should be
adjusted via the magnet disc so,
that the cogs of the feeder wheel and the magazine rack engages and do not
disturb each other.
10. If the magazine
arrives onto the feeder rails, the magazine input sensor should be pressed (see
also “Magazine input sensor”).
11. Repeat the steps 7
to 9 several times and with different magazines. If the requirements are
fulfilled, the adjustment is finished.
12. Finally test the
magazine load and unload procedure at least with 6 different magazines, without
slides. Observe the load procedure, the empty magazines should move downward
smoothly and evenly and the
magazine sensor should be pressed, if the magazine arrives onto the feeder
rails.
Adjust the magazine load mechanics
Since the software version 1.15 the
magazine feeder disc movement is stopped with the rising edge of the magazine
feeder sensor, depending on the magazine unit type, see “Configure the magazine
unit” and see also above “Magnet disc”.
In this case of
“LoaderType = SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical_2; the magnet disc stops with the rising edge of the sensor;
therefore, please refer to the chapter “Adjust
the magazine load mechanics” of the file “P250_Magazine_unit_slide_handling”.
The following part is true, if the LoaderType is LoaderType =
SL_6Mag_25Slide_NoSensor_Vertical;
if the magnet disc movement is stopped with the falling edge of the magazine
feeder sensor; see “Configure
the magazine unit” and also above “Magnet disc”.
13. Start the service
program SlideScannerService.exe and switch active the section “Low level
service” and “DC controller”.
14. Select the
“falling” edge of the “Magazine feeder sensor”
15. With the “Magazine
Feeder” backward button the feeder gear brings the magnet disc into the start
position (not shown).
16. With the “Magazine
loader” forward button bring the magazine input and output stack wheels into
the start position.
17. Check the
“Magazine loader” sensor state and the “Magazine Feeder” sensor state, both
should be attached.
“Configure the magazine
unit” and “Magazine
load procedure”
18. 
Check the stop position
of the input and output stack wheels.
The stop position of the
stack wheels should be perpendicular, and in plane with the bottom of the
magazine channel.
19. 
Adjust the magazine
loader sensor position so, that this requirement (step 5) is reached, it is not
a critical adjustment; repeat steps 3 to 6 until the requirements are
fulfilled.
20. Insert a magazine
into the input stack and with the “Magazine loader” forward button start a
magazine load. The magazine should move smoothly and evenly downward, without
stumble.
21. If stumble occurs,
the magazine feeder gear should be adjusted via the magnet disc so, that the
cogs of the feeder wheel and the magazine rack engages and do not disturb each
other.
22. If the magazine
arrives onto the feeder rails, the magazine input sensor should be pressed (see
also “Magazine input sensor”).
23. Repeat the steps 7
to 9 several times and with different magazines. If the requirements are
fulfilled, the adjustment is finished.
24. Finally test the
magazine load and unload procedure at least with 6 different magazines, without
slides. Observe the load procedure, the empty magazines should move downward
smoothly and evenly and the
magazine sensor should be pressed, if the magazine arrives onto the feeder
rails.
1.
Checks with the service program
Check the magazine load procedure by using empty, half
filled and fully filled magazines (shown on the right).
The magazine load procedure should be executed without
stumbling of the magazine; the magazines moving downward smoothly and the
feeder wheel engages the rack of the magazine easily.
· During
this test, only 1 magazine should be in the input stack!
· Check
all the 6 empty magazines with this test.
· Check
with magazines, filled as shown on the right.
· If
stumble of the magazine during any load procedure occurs, please adjust the “Magazine position for the slide insert -
removal operation” more
precise.
· Check also
the magazine(s) and its rack.
During unload of the magazine, the magazine should
move into the output stack smoothly and evenly. Arrived in the output stack,
the magazine supporters should work correctly!
2. Check the magazine load operation with the test program
· Use
the magazines, prepared in the previous check also with the “Magazine load
test”, the requirements are the same as above.
We assume the test “Check the magazine load - unload operation”
is finished correctly.
Slide
insert and removal test
Finally test the slide insert and removal actions with
all the delivered magazines and different slide sizes and slide shapes. This
test should include the thinnest, thickest, smallest and largest allowed
(metal) slides. Test the slide insert or removal action also in magazine slide
positions without slide.
Prepare
the magazines for the test
Fill all available magazines with slides and execute
the slide insert and removal test. In each magazine, there should be several
places without slides in different slide positions.
During the slide loading test
is in progress, check the following actions visually:
· Please use always a protective eye wear if the slide loading test is in
progress and you are looking closely at the loading procedure! It may happen
that a slide can fly in peaces during the process, even if the adjustment is
incorrect!
1.
During the magazine load action the
magazines moving downward smoothly and evenly.
2.
The magazine
input sensor is attached the magazine is moved to the first slide position (see
also the chapter “Magazine input sensor”).
During
slide insertion
3.
The slide is inserted smoothly and evenly,
without bangs and stronger (more force requiring) sound, even if the thickest
slides with the maximal width of 26.00mm are inserted.
4.
The smallest slides should be hold
correctly.
5.
The outer finger does not touch the slide
clamp of the specimen holder if the slide is fully inserted.
6.
If the slide loader moves backward the upper
part of the slide clamp is not touched, even if slides with the maximal width
of 26.00mm are inserted.
During
slide removal
7.
The inner finger crosses the slide clamp
if there was an empty position in the magazine.
“Mistakes
and abnormal or faulty behavior during slide insertion”
·
If
all the tests and checks are fulfilled correctly, the adjustment of the
magazine unit is finished.
Magazine load,
unload and slide insert, removal test
Start the program “SlideScanner.exe” with the service
password; the menu “Service” appears.
Select the option “Service” and “Slide loading test”;
the combined “magazine load or unload” (1, 2) and the slide insert or removal
(3, 4) test will be selectable.
·
Insert one or more magazine(s) into the
input stack.
Magazine load - unload
and slide insert – removal test
By pressing the button “Insert magazine” (1) the
magazine is moved from the magazine input stack into the magazine feeder
channel and if the magazine is detected by the left magazine sensor, the
magazine is moved to the first slide position of the magazine.
By pressing the button “Remove magazine” (2) the
magazine is moved in direction to the output stack until the right magazine
sensor is even passed, the sensor is in the released state.
The magazine feeder motor rotated the magnet disc one
turn backward and checks the right magazine sensor again. If the right magazine
sensor is attached, the magazine unload position is found and the magazine is
moved into the output stack.
By repeating the procedure (press the buttons “Insert
magazine” and “Remove magazine”) the magazine load test is performed.
By pressing the button “Slide insert test” (3)
1.
If no magazine is present in the feeder
channel:
The magazine load
procedure is executed as described above (1).
The slides will
be inserted into the specimen holder and a few seconds later it will be removed
into the magazine.
If all (selected)
slides of the magazine passed the slide insert and removal procedure, the
magazine is feed to the output stack; see (2) above and the next magazine with
slides will be loaded. The procedure will be repeated until magazines are
present in the input stack or if the button “Stop test” (4) is pressed.
2.
If
a magazine is already present in the magazine feeder channel:
The magazine is
moved until the first slide position of the magazine is reached and then the
slide insert - removal procedure is executed.
If the button “Stop test” (4) is pressed, the test stops
only, if the actual slide insert and removal action is finished.
In emergency
conditions, the switch “Power off”
of the power supply should be switched off.
Positions
In the table “Positions” slide positions of the
magazine can be disabled from the slide insert and removal procedure by easily
deleting the appropriate line from the table. If the test is loaded again from
the start menu, all slide positions are available again.
Mistakes and abnormal or faulty behavior during slide insertion
The following or other faulty behavior can also occur
if dust, paraffin residues or bits of broken glass are in the magazine slide
rail or on other parts, needed for the slide insert and slide removal
procedure.
1.
The slide cannot be inserted, the slide
hits the specimen holder and the action is aborted.
§
Check the plane of the slide leading edge
with the specimen holder right hand edge (Magazine
unit position; position of the specimen holder fixing fork).
§
Check the slide
leading slot bottom in relation to the lower edge of the specimen holder (“InsertSlidePositionX”).
§
Check the position of the slide loader outer
finger in relation to the magazine rail (Adjust
the position of the magnet disc).
§
Check the slide dimensions of the used slide.
2.
Some slides are inserted well, but some
times a big bang can be listened or even cracking the slide on the top:
§
Check the slide leading
slot bottom in relation to the lower edge of
the specimen holder; see also: “InsertSlidePositionX”.
§
Check the position of the slide
loader outer finger in relation to the middle of the magazine rail.
§
Check the
height position of the inner finger.
§
Check the slide dimensions of the used
slide.
3.
Some slides are inserted well, but some
times a big bang can be listened or even cracking the slide on the bottom:
§
Check the slide
leading slot bottom in relation to the lower edge of
the specimen holder.
§
Check the position of the slide loader
outer finger in relation to the middle of the magazine rail.
§
Check the slide dimensions of the used
slide.
4.
The slide insert procedure is done, but
often or some times, the slide is slant inserted and falling down onto the
truss.
§
Check the plane of the slide
leading edge with the specimen
holder right hand edge; see also “Adjust the magazine
unit position”.
5.
During slide insertion a stronger (more
force requiring) sound can be listened, even in the second phase of slide
insertion or the slide is removed before the slide insert procedure is finished
(the slide loader time out was running out).
§
Check or adjust the slide insert position
in X-direction; define the value for the parameter “InsertSlidePositionX”
again; the value of this parameter is often too much.
§
Check the slide dimensions of the used
slide.
6.
If the slide will be inserted, a bang can
be listened always or on some slides, the Inner finger cannot cross the slide
clamp or is in collision with other parts of the specimen holder.
§
Check the plane of the slide
leading edge with the specimen
holder right hand edge.
§
Check the slide
leading slot bottom in relation to the lower edge of the specimen holder (“InsertSlidePositionX”).
§
Check the
height of the inner finger.
§
Check the slide dimensions of the used
slide.
7.
The outer finger touches the specimen
holder during the second part of slide insertion is done.
§
Check or adjust the slide insert position
in Y-direction; define the value for the parameter “InsertSlidePositionY2,3” again.
8.
The slide is touching the sidewall of the
magazine channel if the specimen holder is in the Y-position -800 steps.
§
Check or adjust the slide insert position
in Y-direction; define the value for the parameter “InsertSlidePositionY2,3” again.
9.
If the slide loader is returned to the
outer position (after slide insertion), the lower edge of the slide loader
inner finger touches the upper part of the specimen holders slide clamp.
§
Define the value of the parameter “DeafultPositionX” again and check the
height position of the inner finger; check also the correctness of the limit “Xmax”.
§
Check the slide dimensions of the used
slide.
Mistakes
and abnormal or faulty behavior during slide removal
10. The
inner finger cannot cross the slide clamp if there was an empty position in the
magazine.
§
Define the value of the parameter RemoveSlidePositionX2 again.
List of Parameters and explanation
In the following list the parameters
for the magazine unit, the slide loading and slide removal are collected; the
parameters are situated in the file MicroscopeConfiguration.ini.
Non relevant sections like [ScanCamera], [PreviewCamera],
[PreviewAndBarcodeScanning], [Focus], [ReflectorTurret] and parameters, used for Pannoramic MIDI are left out. A short
explanation of the parameters should help to understand the meaning of the
parameter values.
Please make a security backup of the file MicroscopeConfiguration.ini before
parameter values are modified!
[Version]
CurrentInifileVersion=1.9; actual MicroscopeConfiguration.ini file version since MScan.exe version 1.9 or higher,
do not modify
[Microscope]
SerialNumber=2000; a
four digit number higher then 2000 defines the serial number of the SCAN-150,
so the file MicroscopeConfiguration.ini is assigned to the hardware.
MicroscopeType=3DMic8; 3DMic8 means SCAN -150
and Pannoramic SCAN
ScanCameraType=AVT Marlin F146C; Camera type
PreviewCameraType=DFK21F04; Preview camera type
BarcodeReaderType=MS904; for older scanners only
(3DMic4), do not modify
[HardwareLimits] The number of steps is
defined without lost steps
ObjectGuideXMin=-800; number of steps allowed in
negative direction from Home1,2
ObjectGuideXMax=29900; number of steps allowed
in positive direction from Home1,2
ObjectGuideYMin=-800; number of steps allowed in
negative direction from Home1,2
ObjectGuideYMax=73400; number of steps allowed
in positive direction from Home1,2
FocusDeviceMin=-320; number of steps allowed in
negative direction from Home1,2
FocusDeviceMax=3540; number of steps allowed in
positive direction from Home1,2
ReflectorTurretMin=-400; number of steps allowed in
negative direction from Home1,2
ReflectorTurretMax=58700; number of steps allowed in positive
direction from Home1,2
·
·
·
StepSizeXinMicrometer=1; do not modify
StepSizeYinMicrometer=1; do not modify
ScannableAreaPositionXMin=2200; the specimen holder is even not touched by
the focus pin
ScannableAreaPositionXMax=26000; the medium wide slide should be touched by
the half diameter of the focus pin, the step size for adjustment is 100 steps
ScannableAreaPositionYMin=22646; starts usually with 22000 and is modified by
the preview calibration program.
ScannableAreaPositionYMax=73400; the specimen holder is not touched by the
focus pin
ObjectGuideXYTimeDelayBeforeImageAcquisition=0; A value between 0 and 30 ms can help
to eliminate vibration after stage movements before the scan camera image is
taken; 0 means no wait, 30ms is recommended.
[SlideLoading]
DeafultPositionX=29600; can be the value of “ObjectGuideXMax”-100 steps; the slide loader inner finger should not touch the slide
clamp if the slide is inserted and the slide loader movable part is moving
backward to the slide position of the magazine.
DeafultPositionY=18000; the focus pin moves on the metal part of the specimen holder and the X-motor limits can be reached. Do not modify.
InsertSlidePositionX=700; the specimen holder position for slide insertion
InsertSlidePositionY1=400; the specimen holder position for slide insertion at the beginning
InsertSlidePositionY2=600; the final specimen holder position for slide insertion.
InsertSlidePositionY3=600; the final specimen holder position for slide insertion.
SlideHolderReleasePositionY=8000; the slide tightener is released, the slide
clamp is spanned by the strong
spring.
RemoveSlidePositionX1=-300; the specimen holder position for slide removal at the beginning
RemoveSlidePositionX2=000; the specimen holder position for slide removal at the 2. Phase
RemoveSlidePositionY=1100; the specimen holder Y-position for slide removal
[SlideLoader]
SlideLoaderTimeout=1200; do
not modify
SlideLoaderDelayTimeBeforeSensor=300; If the outer sensor is attached it should
be released after 300ms; do not modify
[MagazineLoader]
MagazineFirstSlidePosition=18; number of turns to reach the first slide
position of the magazine, do not modify
MagazineRemovePosition=85; number of turns to reach the magazine
remove position, do not modify
MagazineFirstSensorPosition=0; do
not modify
MagazineLastSensorPosition=85; do not modify
StackerTimeout=10000; the
magazine load sensor should be attached in less then 10s, do not modify
StackerDelayTimeBeforeSensor=100; do not modify
StackerPreloadTime=2900; do not
modify
MagazineFeederMoveTimeAtPreload=0; do not modify
MagazineFeederTimeout=500; less then 500ms for
one revolution is allowed, do not modify
MagazineFeederDeadTime=100; do not modify
MagazineFeederDelayTimeBeforeSensor=100;
do not modify
MagazineFeederTryCount=10; do not
modify
MagazineFeederDelayTimeBeforeMagazineSensor=300; after 300 ms check the left or right
magazine sensor; do not modify
SlideCountPerMagazine=25; If SCAN-150=25,
Pannoramic SCAN=25 If MIRAX SCAN=50; other values are not
allowed