Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for container lids, suitable for use in reliable automated handling and transport of lamella carriers used for transmission electron microscopy samples, or similar light or thin objects. A lid is for use with a container having one or more cavities that can be accessible through a top surface of a container. The lid can comprise a rigid member having a planar surface. Affixed to the rigid member are a first means for constraining motion of the planar surface to one-degree of freedom movement over the top surface, and a second means for restricting motion, within the cavity, of a lamella carrier contained within the cavity.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a sample holder for a charged particle microscope, comprising a holder body with a recess for releasably receiving a sample carrier with a sample therein; and at least one fixing element that is connectable to said holder body for fixing said sample carrier in said recess of said holder body. As described herein, said fixing element comprises a clamping member that is movably connected to said holder body, wherein said clamping member is movable between a closed and an open position, wherein in the open position said sample carrier can be placed in said recess, and wherein in said closed position said sample carrier can be locked in said recess. With this, a more reliable mounting of a sample carrier onto the sample holder can be established.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a sample holder for a charged particle microscope, comprising a holder body with a recess for releasably receiving a sample carrier with a sample therein; and at least one fixing element that is connectable to said holder body for fixing said sample carrier in said recess of said holder body. As described herein, said fixing element comprises a clamping member that is movably connected to said holder body, wherein said clamping member is movable between a closed and an open position, wherein in the open position said sample carrier can be placed in said recess, and wherein in said closed position said sample carrier can be locked in said recess. With this, a more reliable mounting of a sample carrier onto the sample holder can be established.