Ergonomic, adjustable handle for microtomes and cryostats

• US 20070068337A1
• Filed: 09/06/2005
• Published: 03/29/2007
• Est. Priority Date: 09/06/2005
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Matthew Mincer
• Original Assignee: Matthew Mincer
• Inventors: Mincer, Matthew
• Application Number:
  US11/162,298
• Publication Number:
  US 20070068337A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 74/572.100
• CPC Class Codes: A61F 9/0133 Knives or scalpels specially adapted therefor
• CPC Class Codes: G01N 1/06 providing a thin slice, e.g. microtome
• CPC Class Codes: Y10T 74/2117 Power generating-type flywheel

Abstract

Disclosed is a microtome or cryostat handle in which the angle of the grip is adjustable with respect to the flywheel of the devise. The handle is attached to the flywheel by a bearing block to allow for rotation. The grip of the handle is attached to the bearing block with a moveable coupler, which allows the grip to be positioned at any angle relative to the flywheel. The angle of the grip can either be locked into position or allowed to float depending on the preference of the user.

Claims

1. A microtome or cryostat handle comprising a bearing block which attaches to the flywheel of a microtome or cryostat and rotates independently of the flywheel, an adjustable grip which attaches to the bearing block and can be locked once an acceptable position has been determined, a locking system to allow the grip to be locked in position.

2. The handle as defined in claim 1, wherein the grip can be adjusted to any position from vertical to horizontal relative to the flywheel.

3. The handle as defined in claim 1, wherein the grip can be allowed for float freely within the bearing block.

4. The handle as defined in claim 1, wherein the grip maintains high lateral strength in the locked and unlocked position.