Modular automated diagnostic analysis apparatus with a self cleaning sample input port, an improved fluid selection port, and an improved reagent pack

US5983734A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Medica Corporation · US

Inventors

• Vijay Mathur · Federal Way, US
• Tyler Cote · Chelmsford, US
• Ronald Jones · Ramsey, GB
• Jane Sun · San Jose, US
• Steve Rettew · Harvard, US
• Chen Yi · Boxborough, US
• Tony Mao · Natick, US
• Will Whelan · Arlington, US
• Ken Galano · Wrentham, US
• Richard Dussault · Attleboro, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 30, 1998
• Grant date: Nov 16, 1999
• Expiry date: Jun 30, 2018

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N35/1095
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A modular automated diagnostic analyzer having a fluid entry module for sample aspiration, a valve module for selecting fluids and a pump module for fluidic movement so that a biological sample does not come into contact with the valve system through which calibrants and air are introduced to the fluid path. The fluid entry module encloses an aspiration tube rotatably and slidably engaged with the analysis mechanism chassis to move to different positions for the introduction of calibration and cleaning fluids and the aspiration of fluids into the analysis apparatus from a different types of sample containers. A wiping seal removes residues of aspirated fluids from the exterior surfaces of the aspiration tube with the residue being aspirated into the analysis apparatus for disposal. Sensor modules mounted in a sensor chamber are structured to mechanically stack and interlock and each sensor module includes a fluid tight sealed passage and a sensor element. An fluid selection valve of highly polished ceramic material allows a valve cylinder passage to be selectively connected to fluid sources. A self-contained reagent pack contains calibrants including tonometered calibrants in reage…