Patent ID: 8088329

Claim:
A cell block processing system, comprising: a cell block cassette defining a collection well with a filter disposed therein; a cell block cassette interface removably seating the cell block cassette; a sensor positioned or positionable to detect a fluid level in the collection well; an automated fluid delivery system operable to dispense fluids into the fluid collection well; a controller operatively coupled to the fluid delivery system, wherein the controller causes the fluid delivery system to selectively dispense fluids into the collection well based, at least in part, on a flow rate across the filter that is determined based on a change in fluid level in the collection well detected by the sensor; a waste chamber underlying the cell block cassette interface, the waste chamber comprising an interior and a sealable interface that engages a sealing surface of the cell block cassette; a valve assembly in communication with the waste chamber and controllable to evacuate liquid and solid waste from the waste chamber interior; and a heating element coupled to the valve assembly and configured for controllably heating the valve assembly.