Automated microbial detection apparatus

US11104931B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• BIOMERIEUX, INC. · FR

Inventors

• Ronnie J. Robinson · Holden, US
• Mark Joseph Fanning · Florissant, US
• Stanley Michael Philipak · Augusta, US
• Richard Scott Remes · Burnsville, US
• James Clement Bishop · Columbia, US
• Gary W. Sommer · Skokie, US
• Lawrence E. Guerra · Mission, US
• Michael A. Herron · Overland Park, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 21, 2018
• Grant date: Aug 31, 2021
• Expiry date: Jul 12, 2039

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2035/0465
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method and automated apparatus for rapid non-invasive detection of a microbial agent in a test sample is described herein. The apparatus may include one or more means for automated loading, automated transfer and/or automated unloading of a specimen container. The apparatus also includes a detection system for receiving a detection container, e.g., container or vial, containing a biological sample and culture media. The detection system may also include one or more heated sources, holding structures or racks, and/or a detection unit for monitoring and/or interrogating the specimen container to detect whether the container is positive for the presence of a microbial agent therein. In other embodiment, the automated instrument may include one or more, bar code readers, scanners, cameras, and/or weighing stations to aid in scanning, reading, imaging and weighing of specimen containers within the system.