Patents by Inventor Stefan Künkel

Stefan Künkel has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8890709
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of displaying a system state of an automatic treatment device, a corresponding display system which is configured for carrying out the method, and a treatment device equipped with the display system. At least one system parameter (121, 122, 123) is determined, the at least one determined (120) system parameter (121, 122, 123) is evaluated on the basis of evaluation criteria, the system state is evaluated on the basis of the at least one evaluated (130) system parameter (121, 122, 123), and the evaluated (140) system state is displayed by a traffic light function (175).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Leica Instruments (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael Thiel, Hermann Ulbrich, Martin Zwicklowsky, Michael Erben, Michael Rapp, Stefan Künkel, Udo Herrmann
  • Patent number: 8557511
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are described for infiltrating tissue samples with carrier material, preferably paraffin. A supply of carrier material is kept ready for use in a supply station. From there, the carrier material can be delivered into at least a first and a second container. In these first and second containers carrier materials of differing degrees of purity are kept ready for use, respectively, for performing various infiltration steps on tissue samples. By means of the described method and apparatus the tissue processor can be operated with as little interruptions as possible and an ease in operation is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Leica Instruments (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Michael Rapp, Marc Konrad, Holger Metzner, Markus Dobusch, Eva Goedecke, Stefan Kuenkel, Udo Herrmann
  • Patent number: 8501121
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for automatically embedding at least one tissue sample. A tissue embedding apparatus (1) can be provided having an input unit (2), an image acquisition unit (3), an embedding unit (4), at least one output unit (5, 6), and a control unit (7). A cassette (9) containing at least one tissue sample (8) can be transferred to the input unit (2) of the tissue embedding apparatus (1). At least one image of the tissue sample (8) and/or at least one image of the cassette (9) may be acquired using the image acquisition unit (3). The at least one image acquired of the tissue sample (8) and/or of the cassette (9) may be evaluated. Further processing the tissue sample (8) in the tissue embedding apparatus (1) can be performed as a function of the image evaluation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nusslock GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff, Stefan Künkel
  • Publication number: 20130141246
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of displaying a system state of an automatic treatment device, a corresponding display system which is configured for carrying out the method, and a treatment device equipped with the display system. At least one system parameter (121, 122, 123) is determined, the at least one determined (120) system parameter (121, 122, 123) is evaluated on the basis of evaluation criteria, the system state is evaluated on the basis of the at least one evaluated (130) system parameter (121, 122, 123), and the evaluated (140) system state is displayed by a traffic light function (175).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: Leica Instruments (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael Thiel, Hermann Ulbrich, Martin Zwicklowsky, Michael Erben, Michael Rapp, Stefan Künkel, Udo Herrmann
  • Patent number: 8431091
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tissue embedding apparatus (1) for automatic embedding at least one tissue sample (8). Said tissue embedding device (1) comprises an input unit (2), an image recording unit (3), an embedding unit (4), at least one output unit (5, 6), and a control unit (7). A cassette (9) containing at least one tissue sample (8) can be transferred to the input unit (2) of the tissue embedding device (1). The embedding unit (4) allows the tissue sample (8) to be embedded in an embedding medium, while the at least one output unit (5) allows the embedded tissue sample to be output. The image recording unit (3) makes it possible to record at least one image of the tissue sample (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff, Stefan Künkel
  • Patent number: 8312796
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a microtome (1) having functional regions to be operated manually, in particular a sample holder (2), a cutting device (3), a section removal system (4), and a section collection pan (5). A microtome (1) is described in which the particularly firm contact or adhesion of sectioning waste fragments and, in particular, of thin sections can be at least largely avoided. For this purpose, the microtome (1) according to the present invention is characterized in that the components of the microtome (1) that can be brought into contact with paraffin sections are embodied in electrically conductive fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Künkel, Frank Sauer, Volker Schneider
  • Patent number: 8277730
    Abstract: A tissue infiltration apparatus (1) for specimens present in cassettes (5) comprises at least two liquid containers (7, 11, 13, 15) and a transport apparatus (6). Multiple cassettes (5) are receivable in a transport basket (4). The transport apparatus (6) is configured in such a way that at least two transport baskets (4) are transportable in the tissue infiltration apparatus (1). A transport basket (4) is deliverable to, and/or movable away from, a liquid container (7, 11, 13, 15) with the transport apparatus (6). An execution sequence (21) in which the transport baskets (4) pass through the liquid containers (7, 11, 13, 15) is definable. To enable accelerated or preferred processing of a transport basket (4) with the tissue infiltration apparatus (1), at least one means (8) is provided with which the order of two transport baskets (4) is definably modifiable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff, Stefan Künkel, Janet Minshew
  • Publication number: 20120052526
    Abstract: A tissue infiltration apparatus (1) for specimens present in cassettes (5) comprises at least two liquid containers (7, 11, 13, 15) and a transport apparatus (6). Multiple cassettes (5) are receivable in a transport basket (4). The transport apparatus (6) is configured in such a way that at least two transport baskets (4) are transportable in the tissue infiltration apparatus (1). A transport basket (4) is deliverable to, and/or movable away from, a liquid container (7, 11, 13, 15) with the transport apparatus (6). An execution sequence (21) in which the transport baskets (4) pass through the liquid containers (7, 11, 13, 15) is definable. To enable accelerated or preferred processing of a transport basket (4) with the tissue infiltration apparatus (1), at least one means (8) is provided with which the order of two transport baskets (4) is definably modifiable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff, Stefan Künkel, Janet I. Minshew
  • Patent number: 8071026
    Abstract: A tissue processor is described that comprises a retort for processing histological samples using various reagents, a plurality of exchangeable reagent supply containers that each comprise at least one container opening, a system of conduits, a control device for conveying reagents out of the reagent supply containers through at least one reagent conduit into the retort, and system bottles. The reagent supply containers and the system bottles are connected via the pertinent reagent conduits to at least one valve. The valve is electrically connected to the control device such that at least one of filling and emptying of the system bottles with reagents from the reagent supply containers is controlled. This design allows differently dimensioned reagent supply containers while at the same time minimizing the space requirement for the reagent containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Rapp, Marc Konrad, Markus Dobusch, Stefan Kuenkel
  • Patent number: 8052928
    Abstract: A tissue infiltration apparatus (1) for specimens present in cassettes (5). comprises at least two liquid containers (7, 11, 13, 15) and a transport apparatus (6). A liquid having a definable property is introducible into a liquid container (7, 11, 13, 15). Multiple cassettes (5) are receivable in a transport basket (4). The transport apparatus (6) is configured in such a way that with it, at least two transport baskets (4) are transportable in the tissue infiltration apparatus (1). A transport basket (4) is deliverable to a liquid container (7, 11, 13, 15) and/or movable away from a liquid container (7, 11, 13, 15) with the transport apparatus (6). An execution sequence (21) in which the transport baskets (4) pass through the liquid containers (7, 11, 13, 15) of the tissue infiltration apparatus (1) is definable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff, Stefan Künkel, Janet I. Minshew
  • Patent number: 8039262
    Abstract: A method for controlling a tissue processor and a tissue processor for processing tissue samples is described. A retort is provided including a cover that can be opened and closed by an operator. The retort cover is closed prior to tissue processing. The actuation state of a first and a second operating element can be determined. An operator is prompted to confirm unlocking of the closed retort cover by actuating a second operating element. The tissue processing is interrupted when an actuation of the second operating element is determined and the closed retort cover is unlocked and is continued after the retort cover is once again locked. After having completed tissue processing the retort cover is unlocked. By means of the described method and tissue processor improper intervention during ongoing tissue processing is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Marc Konrad, Holger Metzner, Udo Hermann, Frank Meder, Hermann Ulbrich, Markus Dobusch, Stefan Künkel
  • Publication number: 20100323395
    Abstract: In the automatic processing of tissue samples in a tissue processor, the tissue samples are placed in a retort of the tissue processor. The tissue samples are exposed to a fixation reagent (FIX) in the retort. Afterwards, the tissue samples are exposed to a dehydrating reagent (ALK). Thereafter, the retort is cleared with an intermedium (INT) for removing the dehydrating reagent (ALK). Finally, the tissue samples are treated with a carrier material (CAR). Between the clearing of the retort with the intermedium (INT) and the treatment of the tissue samples with the carrier material (CAR), the retort is cleared with a carrier material protecting reagent (CARPRO) in which the intermedium (INT) and the carrier material (CAR) can be mixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBH
    Inventors: Hermann ULBRICH, Stefan KÜNKEL
  • Publication number: 20100248301
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tissue embedding apparatus (1) for automatic embedding of at least one tissue sample (8). The tissue embedding apparatus (1) encompasses an input unit (2), an image acquisition unit (3), an embedding unit (4), at least one output unit (5, 6), and a control unit (7). A cassette (9) containing at least one tissue sample (8) is transferable to the input unit (2) of the tissue embedding apparatus (1). The tissue sample (8) is embeddable in an embedding medium by means of the embedding unit (4). The embedded tissue sample is outputtable with the at least one output unit (5). At least one image of the tissue sample (8) is acquirable with the image acquisition unit (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff, Stefan Künkel
  • Patent number: 7722811
    Abstract: A tissue processor (1) is described, having a retort (2) for processing histological samples with different reagents, having multiple reagent reservoir vessels (3), and having a conduit system and a control device (5) for delivering reagents out of the reagent reservoir vessels (3) into the retort (2). A suction conduit (11) projects into each reagent reservoir vessel (3) through the vessel opening (7) for reagent withdrawal. A closure system (12) having an externally tapered and internally hollow closure plug (13) is provided for closing off the vessel opening (7). The suction conduit (11) is guided through a cavity (14) of the closure plug (13) for reagent withdrawal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Marc Konrad, Stefan Künkel, Holger Metzner, Eberhard Sendobry, Markus Dobusch
  • Publication number: 20100099199
    Abstract: A method for determining reagent quality in a device having multiple treatment stations for the treatment of at least one of cytological and histological prepared specimens and an apparatus for performing this method are described. The method comprises providing a carrier element that comprises at least one test material; transferring and treating the carrier element having test material according to a predefined sequence in a plurality of the treatment stations together with the specimens; and evaluating the test material by means of an evaluation device after treatment in the last treatment station in sequence. The described method and apparatus achieve that reagent quality can be determined automatically and the reagents can be replaced at an optimum point in time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBH
    Inventors: Markus Egle, Robert Gropp, Stefan Künkel, Karl-Heinz Westerhoff
  • Patent number: 7673546
    Abstract: A microtome (1), having a knife (9) for sectioning a specimen (5) for subsequent microscopic examination, is described. The microtome (1) comprises a cooled specimen holder (2) for receiving the specimen (5), the specimen holder (2) being connected to a coolant circuit (3). Additionally associated with the specimen holder (2) is a cooled thermal conduction plate (4) that can be placed over the specimen (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Leica Biosystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Claudia Dorenkamp, Stefan Künkel
  • Publication number: 20100055663
    Abstract: A method for controlling a tissue processor and a tissue processor for processing tissue samples is described. A retort is provided comprising a cover that can be opened and closed by an operator. The retort cover is closed prior to tissue processing. The actuation state of a first and a second operating element can be determined. An operator is prompted to confirm unlocking of the closed retort cover by actuating a second operating element. The tissue processing is interrupted when an actuation of the second operating element is determined and the closed retort cover is unlocked and is continued after the retort cover is once again locked. After having completed tissue processing the retort cover is unlocked. By means of the described method and tissue processor improper intervention during ongoing tissue processing is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBH
    Inventors: Marc Konrad, Holger Metzner, Udo Hermann, Frank Meder, Hermann Ulbrich, Markus Dobusch, Stefan Künkel
  • Publication number: 20100055788
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are described for infiltrating tissue samples with carrier material, preferably paraffin. A supply of carrier material is kept ready for use in a supply station. From there, the carrier material can be delivered into at least a first and a second container. In these first and second containers carrier materials of differing degrees of purity are kept ready for use, respectively, for performing various infiltration steps on tissue samples. By means of the described method and apparatus the tissue processor can be operated with as little interruptions as possible and an ease in operation is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBH
    Inventors: Hermann Ulbrich, Michael Rapp, Marc Konrad, Holger Metzner, Markus Dobusch, Eve Goedecke, Stefan Kuenkel, Udo Herrmann
  • Publication number: 20100055777
    Abstract: A tissue processor is described that comprises a retort for processing histological samples using various reagents, a plurality of exchangeable reagent supply containers that each comprise at least one container opening, a system of conduits, a control device for conveying reagents out of the reagent supply containers through at least one reagent conduit into the retort, and system bottles. The reagent supply containers and the system bottles are connected via the pertinent reagent conduits to at least one valve. The valve is electrically connected to the control device such that at least one of filling and emptying of the system bottles with reagents from the reagent supply containers is controlled. This design allows differently dimensioned reagent supply containers while at the same time minimizing the space requirement for the reagent containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: LEICA BIOSYSTEMS NUSSLOCH GMBH
    Inventors: Michael Rapp, Marc Konrad, Markus Dobusch, Stefan Kuenkel
  • Patent number: 7287388
    Abstract: A cryostat (1) having a sealable housing (2) is described. The housing (2) encloses a coolable cryostat chamber (3), and a refrigeration device (4), a control system (5) and a power supply (6) are provided for cooling the cryostat chamber (3). For cutting frozen samples, a microtome is arranged in the cryostat chamber (3), a staining station (7) being integrated into the housing (2) outside the cryostat chamber (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Claudia Dorenkamp, Stefan Kuenkel