Container uncapping mechanism
US7377027B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 2002 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 8, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/255
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and method for handling a container having a removable cover, e.g., a vial for holding a biological fluid specimen. The container may have therein an internal element that is releasably coupled to the cover, such as an assembly for processing the specimen in the container. The method involves applying an external force to the covered container sufficient to release the internal element from the cover, and then dislodging the cover from the container. The external force may be an acceleration force applied to the container, such as an impact force to the bottom of the container, or direct contact with the cover with sufficient force to deflect the cover inwardly. A vertically mounted pressing member and a movably mounted gripper can be used. The pressing member may act to eject the cover from the gripper after the container is clear of the gripper. The apparatus may be part of an automated system for processing multiple liquid-based specimens.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.