Automated container management device for microbial detection apparatus
US9783839B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 14, 2010 |
| Grant date | Oct 10, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 23, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2035/0465
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a method and container locator means for moving a container among one or more work-flow stations within an apparatus. The apparatus of the present invention may include a means for automated loading, a means for automated transfer and/or a means for automated unloading of a container (e.g., a specimen container). In one embodiment, the apparatus can be an automated detection apparatus for rapid non-invasive detection of a microbial agent in a test sample. The detection system also including a heated enclosure, a holding means or rack, and/or a detection unit for monitoring and/or interrogating the specimen container to detect whether the container is positive for the presence of a microbial agent. In other embodiment, the automated instrument may include one or more, bar code readers, scanners, cameras, and/or weighing stations to aid in scanning, reading, imaging and weighing of specimen containers within the system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.