Cartridge-based analytical instrument with optical detector
US6531095B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 11, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 11, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 20, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/25375
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An analytical instrument for analyzing fluids. The instrument includes a cartridge carousel assembly which receives analytical cartridges. The cartridges are self-contained units which incorporate a sample metering/separation system which is operated by centrifugal force. The cartridge carousel is composed of a cartridge rotor plate which includes a center and a plurality of cartridge ports which are located in spaced relation radially outward from the center of the plate. The analytical instrument further includes an optical detector which measures a detectable analytical property of the fluid sample which is provided by the optical element of the cartridge. The optical detector includes a radiation source which shines a beam of radiation on the optical element. The optical detector further includes a return beam detector which measures the return beam of radiation emitted by the optical element. The radiation source and return beam detector are both located on the same side of the cartridge rotor plate. The analytical instrument includes a tracking and control unit which tracks and controls the rotary drive mechanism and the detector to provide coordinated operation so that the o…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.