Fluid dispensing system with optical locator
US5141871A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 1990 |
| Grant date | Aug 25, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 10, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/2575
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
There is described an analytical isntrument for the analysis of fluids such as biological fluids. The instrument includes a fluid dispensing system having a pipette for dispensing fluid test samples and test reagents to assay cartridges. An optical detection system provides a light beam which intercepts a downward travel path of the pipette prior to its reaching the dispense position. Measurement of the intensity of the light beam in conjunction with the position of the pipette enables a controller to indicate the presence or absence of a pipette tip. In addition, interception of the light beam by the pipette initiates a final approach sequence for the pipette to the dispense position above an assay cartridge by a predetermined increment of travel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.