Patent ID: 7722810

Claim:
An automated machine for embedding tissue samples on respective microtome sectionable supports, comprising: an input member configured to hold a plurality of the microtome sectionable supports prior to a tissue embedding operation; an output member configured to hold a plurality of the microtome sectionable supports after the tissue embedding operation; a plurality of cooling units each including a mold configured to hold at least one of the microtome sectionable supports during the tissue embedding operation; a motorized carrier assembly mounted for movement and configured to hold at least one of the microtome sectionable supports and move the one support from said input member to one of said cooling units to said output member; a dispenser operating to dispense an embedding material respectively onto the microtome sectionable supports and at least one tissue sample carried by each of the microtome sectionable supports and into the molds during the embedding operation; and at least one heater, said at least one heater coupled to at least one of said input member or the molds for heating the microtome sectionable supports.