Sample loading and handling interface to multiple chemistry analyzers
US6919044B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 17, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jul 19, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 17, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/114165
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A front-end system accepts samples and selectively provides aliquots of those samples to selected clinical chemistry analyzers coupled to the front-end system. The front-end system is coupled to an assembly of one or more clinical chemistry analyzers that might, for example, provide complementary analytical tools so that the overall system of front-end system and clinical chemistry analyzers provides a predetermined broad range of clinical analytical testing. The testing protocols for samples input to the overall system can be independently determined. Any sample may undergo a test within one or more of the clinical chemistry analyzers or a series of tests within a single or more typically within plural ones of the analyzers, depending upon the testing sequence defined in for that sample. The front-end system automatically identifies samples, draws aliquots, and transports the aliquots to the one or more clinical chemistry analyzers coupled to the front-end system. Sample identification, handling and testing are preferably automated A within the overall system to provide complex testing with reduced operator involvement. Consequently, the overall system may facilitate reduced opera…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.