Automatic analysis apparatus with liquid level detection function
US6413475B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 29, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jul 2, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 29, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/2575
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An automatic analysis apparatus with a liquid level detection function includes a pipetting device for pipetting a liquid sample from a sample cup to a reaction container by using a pipetting probe that serves as a first capacitor electrode. A sample cup holding means serves as a second capacitor electrode having a ground potential. The conductor material is arranged along a direction in which the pipetting probe moves down for pipetting and is separate from the pipetting device. The conductor material has the same ground potential as that of the sample cup holding means and also serves as a second electrode whereby at any one time either of the sample cup holding means and the conductive material serves as a second capacitor electrode in combination with the first capacitor electrode. An a electrical detector is provided for detecting a change of electrode static capacitance between the pipetting probe and the sample cup holding means and between the pipetting probe and the conductive material as of level detection of the liquid sample. Measurement means are also provided for measuring an ingredient of the reaction container.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.