Abstract: A method for the storage ensuring fast retrieval and efficient transfer of interrelated, high volume, mainly 3D, information, whereby the input information is assigned to two files, so that image data information required for histological reconstruction is stored in one file and information regarding predetermined parameters of the image data is stored in the other file, whereas in the course of the storing of the received information, associated information regarding the hierarchical relationship of individual image data is also stored in a further file. A computer program product for the storage ensuring fast retrieval and efficient transfer of interrelated, high-volume, mainly 3D, information, contains a computer-readable storage medium including a computer-readable programme code, further a software tool to store associated information regarding the hierarchical relationship of individual image data, while storing input information.

Abstract: A focusing method is provided for the high speed digitalization of microscope slides using an imaging device, wherein the slide is divided into fields of view according to the imaging device and focusing is performed. During rough focusing, several images are captured within the focus range using large focus steps. On the basis of this set of images the position of the best contrast is determined. Fine focusing is performed by adjusting the focus according to the focus distance already determined for another field of view and by focusing with fine steps. A slide displacing device is provided, which enables the displacement of a slide parallel to the optical axis. The slide displacing device includes slide holding elements affixed to one side of a supporting member having two parallel sides, which are connected by stiffening elements defining at least two parallel planes.

Abstract: A slide feeding unit for a microscope includes a slide magazine having a base plate; a toothed rack secured to a magazine side wall; and slide guiding elements perpendicular to an open magazine side. The unit further includes a magazine moving mechanism having a magazine-receiving trough including opposite side plates. Two rotary shafts supported by the trough extend along the trough side plates. Magazine-advancing feeding gears are supported by the side plates and may mesh with the toothed magazine rack. Lifting gears, held in the side plates, have pins on which the magazine is supported when raised or lowered. Driving worm gears are rotated by the shafts and mesh with the feeding gears and the lifting gears. The unit also includes a slide feeding device having a robot arm displaceable perpendicularly to the direction of advance of the magazine for removing a slide from the magazine.