Abstract:
New and improved sample processing and supply apparatus are disclosed and comprise tray means from which are pivotally supported a plurality of partially filled sample container means. In use, said tray means are operatively connected to centrifuge drive means and rotated to centrifuge each of said samples and separate the same into sample constituent layers, whereupon said tray means are removed as a unit from said centrifuge drive means and operatively associated with automatic sample analysis means for indexing to supply a series of one of said sample constituents from said sample container means to said analysis means. Outer tray means comprising a plurality of outer sample container means are provided for use in conjunction with said tray means for the concomitant supply of, for example, a whole sample and a separated sample constituent to said sample analysis means. For such use, the tray means and outer tray means are combined in predetermined manner which insures ample container means and outer sample container means alignment, and the combined trays indexed as a unit.
Abstract:
Apparatus and method for preparing a smear of a biological fluid substance on a substrate, utilizing a ribbon having relatively small openings in at least one surface thereof which openings are of substantially uniform size and are arranged substantially uniformly both longitudinally and transversely of the ribbon throughout at least a portion of the ribbon. The method includes the steps of supporting the substrate for movement and supporting the ribbon by a support to close proximity to the substrate at a substance-applying station, for a run of the ribbon past a portion of the substrate. Further steps include introducing a relatively small quantity of the aforementioned substance between the aforementioned ribbon surface portion and the substrate at the substance-applying station to spread by capillarity in a direction transversely of the ribbon, and moving the substrate in a direction to smear the substance on the substrate.
Abstract:
Apparatus and method for determining the viscosity of a liquid sample, comprising supporting a quantity of the sample with a surface thereof exposed to the ambient atmosphere, placing a magnetic wafer on the sample surface, for support thereon, generating a rotating magnetic field about the center of the wafer to spin the wafer on its center, and monitoring the rate of rotation of the wafer as an indication of the viscosity of the sample. Further applications include detecting a change in the viscosity of a sample and determinations of Prothrombin Time and Partial Thromboplastin Time of blood specimens, and various other uses where the end point of a reaction in a sample mixture is evidenced by a change of viscosity.
Abstract:
An article for drawing and holding a blood sample and adapted to be centrifuged to thereby position a separator between the packed cell portion of the blood, the heavier phase, and the serum or plasma portion, the lighter phase. The article includes a rigid evacuated tubular container hermetically sealed with a removable resilient stopper, an inner cover element within the container detachably connected to the stopper to be separated therefrom on centrifugation of the blood sample, the element having plural filter openings therein, and a quantity of an inert semifluid sealant in the bottom of the container, the cover element and the sealant each having a specific gravity greater than the serum or plasma portion but less than the packed cell portion. In centrifuged position, the cover element intimately overlies the sealant and is supported from the wall structure of the container by the sealant, the sealant closing the filter openings and forming with the cover element the separator.
Abstract:
Method of controlling the temperature of a tape element in a tape run utilizing a tape support element having a surface elongated in the direction of the tape run and for coaction with a surface of the tape element, the tape support surface having a tape-receiving part spaced from a tape delivery part, which method includes controlling the temperature of the tape support surface. The method includes the steps of intimately supporting the tape element by the support element, and introducing a relatively small quantity of a temperature-exchange liquid between the aforementioned elements in proximity to the tape receiving part to spread by capillarity in a thin film toward the tape delivery part. Such spreading of the thin liquid film is enhanced by moving the tape element toward the delivery part of the support.
Abstract:
Method and apparatus for photometrically testing for a constituent of a droplet of a discrete liquid sample having an arcuate surface and having a planar surface resting on or suspended from a surface and wherein light rays from a source are directed into the droplet through the planar surface thereof. Light energy as a measure of absorbance, light scattering or fluorescence is transmitted through the planar droplet surface to a photodetector for analysis of the sample which analysis may be qualitative or quantitative or indicate an end reaction. Such analysis may be automated.