Abstract: A microtome for producing thin sections from a sample includes a sample holder configured to receive the sample and a cutting edge configured to cut the sample, the cutting edge having a specified cutting direction, the cutting direction and the cutting edge spanning a cutting plane. The microtome further includes a movement device configured to produce a relative movement between the sample holder and the cutting unit for cutting the sample in the cutting direction, a feed device configured to produce a relative movement between the sample holder and the cutting edge for cutting the sample in a feed direction at an angle not equal to 0° to the cutting plane, and a liquid volume with a liquid abutting the cutting edge on a side of the cutting edge facing away from the sample holder.

Abstract: A specimen slicing mechanism such as a microtome or an ultramicrotome in which a specimen is held by a specimen arm and is moved through a knife. The specimen arm is made of two segments which are secured to each other via a lockable hinge assembly. The lockable hinge assembly uses a hinge between the two segments as well as a locking mechanism. When locked, the two segments are in a fixed relationship which causes the specimen to be forced through the knife by the action of the motor. When the locking mechanism is unlocked, the segment of the specimen arm holding the specimen is able to rotate (“float”) around the hinge; thus allowing the specimen to be sliced by the knife as gravity pulls the segment downward.

Abstract: A hinge assembly which creates a zero backlash situation. The base member has multiple seats, each having two contact ridges. The contact ridges are formed by an intersection of two planes (ideally substantially ninety degrees). A ball interconnect is engaged by the contact ridges of the seat on one side and a similar arrangement of contact seats on the other side (the hinge member). The diameter of the ball interconnect is larger than the distances between the contact ridges. By sandwiching the ball interconnect between the contact ridges of the base member and the contact ridges of the hinge member, a zero backlash is created in which firm and positive contact is maintained between the elements of the hinge.

Abstract: A hinge assembly which creates a zero backlash situation. The base member has multiple seats, each having two contact ridges. The contact ridges are formed by an intersection of two planes (ideally substantially ninety degrees). A ball interconnect is engaged by the contact ridges of the seat on one side and a similar arrangement of contact seats on the other side (the hinge member). The diameter of the ball interconnect is larger than the distances between the contact ridges. By sandwiching the ball interconnect between the contact ridges of the base member and the contact ridges of the hinge member, a zero backlash is created in which firm and positive contact is maintained between the elements of the hinge.