Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus and methods for controlling heaters in an automated biological apparatus are provided. The heating system has a conversion buffer in between the desired temperature generator and the heating controller. The heating controller is in communication with a slide temperature sensor, which provides feedback to the heating controller, and a heater. Because the slide temperature sensor may inaccurately reflect the actual temperature on the slide, the heating controller may inaccurately heat the slide to an undesired temperature. Thus, the conversion buffer compensates for potential inaccuracies of the heating controller. The desired temperature generator sends the 'desired temperature' for the slide to the conversion buffer. The conversion buffer converts the 'desired temperature' to an 'adjusted temperature' and sends it to the heating controller. The heating controller then controls the heater based upon the 'adjusted temperature' and the heating sensor. The conversion buffer may be generated during calibration of the machine. Similarly, the temperature, which is sensed from the slide temperature sensor, may be adjusted to reflect the actual temperature for the slide.

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First Claim