Abstract: A dissolution sampling apparatus which automatically extracts aliquots which contain a dissolved drug in solution from a plurality of dissolution containing flasks and tests each aliquot for the amount of drug dissolved within the aliquot. The sampling apparatus can resupply the removed aliquot. back to its source or the aliquot can be discarded as waste with new media being resupplied to the source. A syringe is used to remove the aliquots. A mechanically operated valve could be used with each syringe or a plurality of solenoids instead of the mechanically operated valve.

Abstract: A dissolution test apparatus which utilizes a fixed base upon which is movably mounted a drive head. The fixed base which supports a plurality of flasks. Mounted within the drive head are a plurality of mixing paddles. The drive head is to be manually movable from the upper position to a lower position. In the lower position each mixing paddle to be located within a flask. Also mounted in the drive head is a plurality of sample tubes with a sample tube to be located in direct juxtaposition to a mixing paddle. Each sample tube is separately movable relative to the drive head. With the drive head in the upper position the mixing paddles are located spaced from their respective flasks. The weight of the drive head is counterbalanced by a counterbalancing weight assembly. A caliper type of braking arrangement is mounted on the drive head and when in the at-rest position the drive head is fixedly positioned relative to the base.

Abstract: A diffusion cell to facilitate the automated removal of test aliquots of liquid from a receptor chamber of the diffusion cell so as to determine percutaneous absorption through a membrane of a donor media from a donor chamber into the receptor chamber of the diffusion cell. There is utilized a sampling port through which the test aliquot is to be removed, the removal being achieved by means of a sample tube. Within the receptor chamber is located a stirring device in the form of a helical coil which is to be rotated to achieve stirring and homogeneous mixing of the liquid within the receptor chamber. Mounted within the coil is a filter screen to prevent particulate matter over a certain size from entering the sample tube and clogging such.

Abstract: A diffusion cell to facilitate the automated removal of test aliquots of liquid from a receptor chamber of the diffusion cell so as to determine percutanous absorption through a membrane of a donor fluid from a donor chamber into the receptor chamber of the diffusion cell. There is utilized a sampling port through which the test aliquot is to be removed, the removal being achieved by means of a sample tube which is to be movable into and out of the receptor chamber. Within the receptor chamber is located a stirring device in the form of a helical coil which is to be rotated to achieve stirring and homogeneous mixing of the liquid within the receptor chamber. A refilling tube connects also with the receptor chamber to add liquid into the receptor chamber as the test aliquot has been removed. A leveling tube within the sampling port is to restore the initial preset receptor liquid volume between sampling intervals.