Fluid selection valve for a modular automated diagnostic apparatus
US6293162A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 8, 1999 |
| Grant date | Sep 25, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 8, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N35/1095
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
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 different tpes 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. A fluid selection valve of highly polished ceramic material allows a valve cylinder passage to be selectively connected to fluid sources. A self-contained reagent pouch housing contains calibrants including tonometered calibrants in…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.