Means Is Turntable (circular) Patents (Class 422/64)
  • Patent number: 8945470
    Abstract: The present invention is to present a sample analyzer comprising: a first measurement unit; a second measurement unit; a transport unit for transporting a sample container to the first measurement unit and the second measurement unit; and a controller configured to perform operations comprising: obtaining measurement item information indicating a measurement item of the sample contained in the sample container; and controlling the transport unit so as to transport the sample container to the second measurement unit when a first measurement item and a second measurement item different from the first measurement item are indicated in the measurement item information, and controlling the transport unit so as to transport the sample container to the first measurement unit or the second measurement unit when the first measurement item is indicated and the second measurement item is not indicated in the measurement item information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Keisuke Kuwano, Daigo Fukuma
  • Patent number: 8940233
    Abstract: A cartridge for an apparatus for analyzing blood chemistry includes an apparatus frame having a compartment; a cartridge that is inserted into the compartment of the apparatus frame and includes a sensor card, a solution valve unit, and a blood introducing unit; a controller that receives a signal generated from the sensor card and processes the signal; a lever for the blood introducing unit connected to the apparatus frame; a power transmitting unit that is provided to the apparatus frame and transmits power of the lever for the blood introducing unit to open/close the blood introducing unit of the cartridge; a solution transporting unit that is provided to the apparatus frame and transports the solutions; and a driving unit that actuates the solution valve unit of the cartridge by the controller and opens or closes the tubing flowing of the solutions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: I-Sens, Inc.
    Inventors: Tae Young Kang, Heejun Lee, Jeonghan Ha, Jungwon Shin, Hakhyun Nam, Geun Sig Cha
  • Patent number: 8936752
    Abstract: A sample analyzer is disclosed. The sample analyzer comprises: a reader for reading ID of a sample from a sample container; an aspirator that aspirates a sample in a sample container; an analyzing section that analyzes the aspirated sample; a manual input receiver for receiving a manual input of an ID of a sample; an start instruction receiver for receiving a start instruction to cause the aspirator to aspirate a sample; and a controller. When receiving the start instruction without receiving the manual input, the controller controls the reader to read an ID from a sample container and then controls the aspirator to aspirate the sample from the sample container. When receiving the start instruction after receiving the manual input, the controller controls the aspirator to aspirate a sample without reading of an ID of the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventor: Keisuke Kuwano
  • Patent number: 8936754
    Abstract: There is provided a high-accuracy automatic analysis device achieving both of measurement in a wide concentration range and high sensitivity at a low concentration. The signals of a plurality of wavelengths ?1 to ?12 where the sensitivity of light absorption caused by fine particles is high from a light source 40 are converted to absorbances by a spectroscopic optical system (detector) 41. The absorbances are converted to a secondary parameter from in which a noise component is cancelled by using a previously-defined conversion table 54, so that a concentration of a measured material (predetermined component) is calculated by an operation unit (calculating means) 53 based on the secondary parameter. Thus, analysis being resistant to the noise even at the low concentration can be achieved in a range up to a high concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Isao Yamazaki, Hiroaki Ishizawa, Sakuichiro Adachi
  • Publication number: 20150010435
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an automatic analyzer includes a magnetic field generator, a photometric unit, a measurement unit, and a decision unit. The magnetic field generator causes magnetic separation in a reaction liquid stored in a cuvette by magnetic particles. The photometric unit includes a light source unit configured to generate light, and a detection unit configured to detect the light generated by the light source unit and generate an output signal corresponding to the detected light. The measurement unit measures a measurement item based on the output signal. The decision unit decides the use range of the output signal to be used to measure the measurement item in accordance with spatial unevenness of the magnetic separation by the magnetic field generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicants: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi MATSUMOTO, Tetsuya Higashi, Masakazu Kitamura
  • Patent number: 8926902
    Abstract: An automatic apparatus is described, which is suitable for the withdrawal of portions of biological material from a parent test tube (1), mobile in a conveyor (6) of a test tube transport plant by means of transport devices (8) of single test tubes, to be loaded in one or more child test tubes (2) countermarked beforehand with suitable identification means and to be sent to different biological material analysis instruments interfaced to said transport plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Inpeco Holding Ltd.
    Inventor: Gianandrea Pedrazzini
  • Patent number: 8926901
    Abstract: A sample analyzer that analyzes a sample by using a reagent contained in a reagent container is disclosed. The sample analyzer includes a container holding unit which is configured to hold a plurality of reagent containers, and a plurality of electronic tags is attached to the plurality of reagent containers, on which a reagent information regarding reagents is recorded. The sample analyzer further includes an antenna section which emits a radio wave to an electronic tag of a reagent container. A range of the radio wave emitted from the antenna section to the electronic tag is limited to a predetermined range or by a limiting member which is arranged between the antenna section and the electronic tag of the reagent container, and which is configured to limit a range of the radio wave emitted from the antenna section to the electronic tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventor: Kazunori Mototsu
  • Patent number: 8926903
    Abstract: To perform accurate measurement in the analysis of chemical components with low concentration, pretreatment such as concentration and purification of samples is essential. For high-throughput of pretreatment of biological samples, various random clinical testing is encountered, where analytes change from sample to sample. The pretreatment apparatus has a separating agent selectively separating a specific component by allowing a sample solution to flow therethrough. A holding section holds a plurality of housing sections, which house the separating agent therein, and has an endless track. A pressurizing section applies pressure to the housing section in a continuous and random-accessible manner; and an extraction solution receiver mechanism selectively receives an extracted solution from the separating agent housed in the housing section. A mass spectrometer is that can be connected to the pretreatment apparatus. Thus, a large number of specimens can be simultaneously processed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Nogami, Katsuhiro Kanda, Izumi Waki
  • Patent number: 8920722
    Abstract: A sample analyzer for analyzing a measurement sample prepared by a sample and a reagent is disclosed. The sample analyzer includes a rotatable first holding section for holding a first reagent container containing a first reagent and a second reagent container containing a second reagent circularly, a rotatable second holding section for holding a third reagent container containing a third reagent and a fourth reagent container containing a fourth reagent circularly, the second holding section being arranged concentrically relative to the first holding section, a dispenser for dispensing a reagent selected from the first to fourth reagents into a measurement sample container for preparing a measurement sample, and a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Kitagawa, Shuhei Kaneko, Kyozo Fujita
  • Patent number: 8920720
    Abstract: A configurable tissue processing system is disclosed that includes a plurality of configurable tissue processing stations, each station configured to receive tissue samples and selectively configurable to heat, agitate and apply either a positive pressure or a vacuum pressure to the received tissue samples; a transport mechanism that is configured to transport the tissue samples between the plurality of configurable tissue processing stations; and a control unit coupled to the plurality of configurable tissue processing stations and to the transport mechanism, the control unit controlling the transport mechanism to selectively position the tissue samples in the plurality of configurable tissue processing stations, and the control unit configuring each of the plurality of configurable tissue processing stations to heat, agitate and apply either a positive pressure or a vacuum pressure to the received samples. Also disclosed is a method of configuring the plurality of tissue processing stations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Rushabh Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: Preyas Shah
  • Patent number: 8920719
    Abstract: Provided is a strip-assembled immunochromatographic disc, containing: a base, a lid engaged with the base and a draining piece disposed between the strips on the base and the lid, wherein a sampling opening is disposed on the lid directly facing to the draining piece, and the said sampling opening intercommunicates to a draining groove provided on the inner side of the lid which is formed by a plurality of draining channels; several strip stages are provided on the base with their location and number corresponding to those of the draining channels provided on the lid, and the edge of the draining piece laps to the sample pads of the strips carried on the stage adjacent to one end of the sampling opening. Also provided is a method of performing multiplexed immnochromatographic detection using the strip disc to accomplish the detection of multiple target analytes in one sample in an assay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Acadamy of Military Medical Sciences
    Inventors: Lei Zhou, Zongmin Du, Ruifu Yang, Huijie Huang
  • Patent number: 8921094
    Abstract: A system and method for the processing of nucleic acids containing fluids involving manipulation of magnetically responsive particles contained therein are disclosed. In the system, a holder holds a plurality of containers containing the fluids, a heating device applies thermal energy to the fluids for incubation, and a separating device magnetically separates the particles. The heating and separating devices move into at least one operative position for processing the fluids and at least one inoperative position with respect to the containers, in which the containers are kept stationary at least during and in-between incubating the fluids and manipulating the magnetically responsive particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Reto Keller, Thomas Meyer
  • Patent number: 8916097
    Abstract: A controller for an automated immunoassay system is provided to manage the system resources and control the flow of samples under test. The controller allows tests to be run dynamically instead of in a serial, first in first out flow. The controller evaluates the set of tests to be run and generates a sequencing strategy. The sequencing strategy is based on the paths specified for each type of assay, the numbers of tests to be run, the priority of each test and the resources required for each test. In addition, the controller can resolve resource allocation conflicts and modify the sequencing strategy as test conditions change during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.
    Inventors: David Stein, Marcel J. Goetz, Jr., Sanchoy Das
  • Patent number: 8916095
    Abstract: The automatic analyzer stores: a predetermined period from the opening of a reagent vessel to the deterioration of the reagent; a reagent production lot number, reagent vessel unsealing time, and reagent expiration date as reagent information kept on a reagent-set-by-set basis; and relevant calibration curve factor information. The automatic analyzer judges whether a calibration curve factor for a reagent set is applicable or not to another reagent set of the analyzer with the same production number based on the predetermined period from the reagent vessel unsealing time and on the reagent expiration date.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Shibuya, Kazuhiro Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8916096
    Abstract: According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the analyzer includes a reagent driving disk that accommodates a reagent configured for analysis and that transports the reagent to a desired position, and a fixed disk that has a reagent stand-by position in which to make a reagent container containing the reagent, temporarily stand by, and a magnetic particles stirring position for stirring magnetic particles. A portion of the reagent stand-by position is constituted by a loading system. A reagent container moving unit moves reagent containers containing the reagent, between the reagent driving unit and the fixed disk, according to analytical request status. Providing in a part of the fixed disk the loading system constructed so that reagent containers containing the reagent can be mounted therein during operation enables changing of reagent containers, irrespective of an operational status of the reagent driving disk, and the system to having cold-storage functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Yukinori Sakashita, Katsuaki Takahashi, Susumu Sakairi, Taku Sakazume, Yoshihiro Yamashita
  • Patent number: 8906324
    Abstract: An automatic inoculating system for depositing a sample on a substrate in a predetermined pattern. A turret is rotatable about a vertical axis, and an arm retained by the turret is pivotable about a horizontal axis. A stylus retained at a distal portion of the arm sucks up and dispenses the sample, such as by use of a pumping system in fluidic communication with the stylus. A support rotatably retains the substrate. The arm can be raised and lowered, such as by a cylinder on which the arm rests without a retaining mechanical connection therebetween. The arm can thus freely lift off the cylinder as when the stylus contacts the surface of the substrate. The sample can thus be deposited on the substrate in a predetermined pattern by a dispensing from the stylus in combination with rotation of the turret and the substrate and a pivoting of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Emmanuel Jalenques
  • Publication number: 20140356232
    Abstract: Disclosed is an analyzing apparatus including a first drive part (71) for rotating a turntable (101) on which an analyzing device is set, a second drive part (72) selectively engaged with the first drive part (71) to reciprocate the analyzing device, and a third drive part (73) for relatively moving the first drive part (71) and the second drive part (72) a position where the first and second drive parts are engaged with each other and a position where the first and second drive parts are not engaged with each other. Thus in the mixing and agitation of a small amount of fluid, necessary acceleration can be obtained even in a short time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventors: Kenji NAKANISHI, Kenji OKADA, Junji TADA, Masahito SHIRAISHI
  • Patent number: 8894928
    Abstract: A junction for transporting sample racks in an analytical system having one or more work cells for processing samples and a method thereof are disclosed. In one embodiment, the junction may include multiple main transport lines, a turntable and one or more bypass transport lines. The multiple main transport lines can transport first sample racks and second sample racks having different sizes. The rotatable transport line can alternately connect to one or more of the main transport lines. Each of the one or more bypass transport lines can interconnect two of the main transport lines and bypass the turntable. Each of the bypass transport lines can be curved such that transport of the second sample racks through each of the bypass transport lines is enabled and transport of the first sample racks through each of the bypass transport lines is disabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Joerg Haechler
  • Patent number: 8889069
    Abstract: A sample processing apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a sample processing section, a transporting section, an identification data acquirer and a system controller. When identification data of a washing fluid tube is acquired by the identification data acquirer, the system controller controls the transporting section to supply the washing fluid tube to the sample processing section. When the washing fluid tube arrives at the sample processing section, the sample processing section aspirates the washing fluid in the supplied washing fluid tube and performs a washing of at least one part of the sample processing section. The system controller prohibits the washing with the washing fluid tube if identification data of a sample tube is acquired after the identification data of the washing fluid tube is acquired and before the washing is started.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Daigo Fukuma, Keisuke Kuwano
  • Patent number: 8883509
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are described that achieve independent and simultaneous processing of a plurality of substrate-supported biological samples. In one embodiment, substrate holders arranged in a minor arc are independently moveable between a processing position and an access position, and reagents are delivered to substrates held in the substrate holders through a nozzle plate that moves along the arc of substrate holders. The disclosed apparatus and method are particularly suited for implementation of lean processing of biological samples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles D. Lemme, William Richards, Glen Ward, Austin Ashby, Andrew Ghusson, Lisa Jensen-Long, Kevin Knapp, Rodney Kugizaki, Alain Larson, Paul Richards, Wayne Showalter, Chad Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 8871159
    Abstract: This invention provides compositions and methods useful for the processing of a tissue sample and the preparation of cells, cell aggregates and/or tissue fragments. The invention provides two-stage filer devices and two-membrane devices. Cell aggregates and/or tissue fragments prepared using such devices and according to methods of the present invention can be used in a variety of assay systems, including, but not limited to, drug validation assays, drug screening assays, proliferation assays, metabolic assays, metastasis assays, angiogenesis assays, binding assays, biochemical assays, cellular assays, genetic assays, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Christian Apfel
  • Patent number: 8871147
    Abstract: A sample analyzer comprising: a measurement unit holds a reagent to be used in a sample measurement and measures a sample by using the reagent; a memory storing a usage amount of the reagent used by the measurement unit; a controller calculates an estimated usage amount of the reagent for a specific day, based on the usage amount of the reagent stored in the memory; and a display, wherein the controller controls the display to show a screen including graphic information illustrating a remaining amount of the reagent held by the measurement unit and the estimated usage amount of the reagent for the specific day, first numerical information indicating, by means of a numerical value, the remaining amount of the reagent, and second numerical information indicating an excess or shortage amount of the remaining amount of the reagent relative to the estimated usage amount of the reagent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Yuji Wakamiya, Tomohiro Okuzaki
  • Patent number: 8871158
    Abstract: A protective sheath for prolonged storage of pathology paraffin blocks. The sheath protects the paraffin block against gouging, scratching, denting, rodents, and insects. A pathology slide slides into a slot in the protective sheath and is held into place by retainers running on the interior face of the protective sheath. A paraffin block cassette accepts a paraffin block and slides into a sample block sleeve holder disposed on one edge of the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventors: Noel D. Clark, Johnson Wong
  • Patent number: 8863595
    Abstract: The automated sample extraction device is a device for the automatic extraction of chemical samples. The device includes a housing defining an open interior region. A rotating carousel is disposed within the housing, and a plurality of sample holders are mounted thereon. A plurality of sample storage tanks each contain a unique chemical sample, and a desired volume of at least one chemical sample is drawn from a respective one of the sample storage tanks to a respective at least one of the plurality of sample holders. The carousel is rotated so that the desired volume of the at least one chemical sample may be dispensed into a receptacle positioned adjacent the carousel. The at least one chemical sample may then be mixed, heated, cooled, shaken and/or vibrated within the receptacle prior to dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Kuwait University
    Inventor: Sadeq Ahmad Al-Qasem
  • Patent number: 8865092
    Abstract: A method for automatically dosing a fixative solution in a flexible bag containing at least one biological organic sample comprises placing the bag with the sample in a dosing system (e.g., on a holder or weighing device), computing a required volume or weight of fixative solution as a function of the sample or the bag with the sample, and automatically transferring the computed volume or weight of fixative solution from a storage container into the bag. A system is also described for automatically dosing a fixative solution in a flexible bag containing at least one biological organic sample, a carrier for said flexible bags, and a storage cabinet for storing the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Milestone S.r.l.
    Inventor: Visinoni Francesco
  • Patent number: 8864030
    Abstract: A sample analyzer comprising: a measurement unit for measuring a sample contained in a sample container; a barcode reader; a rotating section; and a controller is disclosed. The controller controls the rotating section and the barcode reader so that the barcode reader repeatedly reads the barcode over the range of a predetermined rotation angle; and obtains identification information of the sample contained in the sample container on the basis of reading results obtained as a result of the repeated reading of the barcode by the barcode reader. Method of obtaining sample identification information and a sample identification information obtaining apparatus are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventor: Yuichiro Ohmae
  • Patent number: 8858882
    Abstract: There is provided a data processing method that reduces influences of air bubbles and dirt while maintaining changes in light amounts. Two scattering light photoreceivers are disposed in the forward direction. A photoreceiver 33a closer to the optical axis is taken to be a main angle photoreceiver, and a photoreceiver 33b further from the optical axis is taken to be a sub-angle photoreceiver. Noise is estimated based on the reaction process data of the sub-angle photoreceiver, and noise is reduced by subtracting the estimated noise from the reaction process data of the main angle photoreceiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Sakuichiro Adachi, Terumi Tamura, Hajime Yamazaki, Akihisa Makino, Takeshi Yogi
  • Patent number: 8858881
    Abstract: Disclosed is an analyzing apparatus including a first drive part (71) for rotating a turntable (101) on which an analyzing device is set, a second drive part (72) selectively engaged with the first drive part (71) to reciprocate the analyzing device, and a third drive part (73) for relatively moving the first drive part (71) and the second drive part (72) a position where the first and second drive parts are engaged with each other and a position where the first and second drive parts are not engaged with each other. Thus in the mixing and agitation of a small amount of fluid, necessary acceleration can be obtained even in a short time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Panasonic Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Nakanishi, Junji Tada, Kenji Okada, Yoshiyuki Fujii
  • Patent number: 8852508
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a microinjection apparatus (100) for microinjection of substances into individual substances comprising at least one carrier (120, 130) on which at least one sample is immobilizable. In embodiments, the apparatus comprises at drivable support (110) on which at least one carrier is positioned, wherein the support drives the at least one carrier in a closed loop to a respective plurality of stations along the loop. The plurality of stations constitutes at least one sample-substance-providing station (141), at least one sample-substance microinjection station (142) and at least one sample-extraction station (143).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: CSEM Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA—Recherche et Developpement
    Inventors: Siegfried Graf, Helmut Knapp
  • Patent number: 8852507
    Abstract: An interface apparatus between a pneumatic mail system and a feeding system of biological products to a laboratory automation system is described, the apparatus comprising a capsule suitable for being conveyed in a pneumatic mail system which accommodates therein one or more biological material containers, said capsule opening and connecting to a device for transferring said biological material containers contained in said capsule into at least one recruiting device of said biological product containers, said at least one recruiting device being used to load said containers of biological products into a positioning device interfaced with a gripping device of said biological product container for transferring said biological product container on an automatic conveyor belonging to a laboratory automation system. Said capsule has an inner chamber containing foam elements adapted to withhold said biological product containers present in said capsule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Inpeco Holding Ltd.
    Inventor: Gianandrea Pedrazzini
  • Patent number: 8845984
    Abstract: The present invention provides systems, devices, apparatuses and methods for automated bioprocessing. Examples of protocols and bioprocessing procedures suitable for the present invention include but are not limited to: immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, recombinant protein isolation, nucleic acid separation and isolation, protein labeling, separation and isolation, cell separation and isolation, food safety analysis and automatic bead based separation. In some embodiments, the invention provides automated systems, automated devices, automated cartridges and automated methods of western blot processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Life Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Amshey, Daniel Bezdek, Espir Kahatt, Alexander Khorlin, Lance Parsons, Todd Peterson, Timothy Powers, Michael Thacker, Timothy Updyke, Kornelija Zgonc
  • Patent number: 8845982
    Abstract: A method for fixation of organic tissue samples includes immersing a tissue sample in a solution of Formalin at a temperature of between 2° C. and 10° C. for a first time period (A), and immersing the tissue sample in a cold fixation dehydrating agent for a second time period (B) following the first time period. An automated tissue fixation system for fixating organic tissue samples in Formalin is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Milestone S.r.l.
    Inventors: Bussolati Giovanni, Visinoni Francesco
  • Patent number: 8845964
    Abstract: A sample analyzer comprising: a measurement section; a transportation section; an identification data obtainer; and a system controller; is disclosed. The system controller is configured to acquire a result of determination regarding whether a sample needs a re-measurement for a sample based on a result of a measurement of the sample. When the system controller recognizes a presence of the washing fluid tube transported by the transportation section before a determination result regarding a necessity of re-measurement is obtained for an already aspirated sample, the system controller prohibits the supply of the washing fluid in the washing fluid tube to the measurement section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Daigo Fukuma, Keisuke Kuwano
  • Publication number: 20140286824
    Abstract: An automated analyzer maintains high processing capacity and dispensation accuracy even when items requiring dilution/pretreatment and general reaction measurement are mixed. A plurality of sample dispensing mechanisms are independently driven and each include a sample collection position, a sample nozzle for collecting the sample, and a washing tank for washing the sample nozzle. The sample dispensing mechanisms are configured to collect the sample from a plurality of sample collection positions and are operated independently to perform sample dispensation into reaction containers on a reaction disc. At least one of the sample dispensing mechanisms is provided for each of a sample requiring dilution/pretreatment and a sample that does not require dilution/pretreatment. The automated analyzer is provided with a control means for causing the respective mechanisms to be operated in a dedicated manner. The sample is dispensed such that no vacancy is created in the reaction containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventors: Akihiro Yasui, Yoshihiro Suzuki, Hitoshi Tokieda
  • Publication number: 20140273241
    Abstract: Diagnostic analyzers with pretreatment carousels and related methods are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a first carousel that includes a first annular array of slots to receive a first vessel. The example first carousel also includes a first track of rotation about the first carousel having a first diameter and a second track of rotation about the first carousel having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. The example apparatus includes a first diverter to move the first vessel from the first track to the second track. In addition, the example apparatus includes a second carousel coaxial with the first carousel. The example second carousel includes a second annular array of slots to receive a second vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Brian L. Ochranek, David C. Arnquist
  • Publication number: 20140273245
    Abstract: Example automated diagnostic analyzers and methods for using the same are disclosed herein. An example apparatus described herein includes a first carousel rotatably coupled to a base and having a first axis of rotation. The example apparatus includes a second carousel rotatably coupled to the base and vertically spaced over the first carousel such that at least a portion of the second carousel is disposed over the first carousel. In the example apparatus, the second carousel has a second axis of rotation and a plurality of vessels. The example apparatus also includes a pipetting mechanism offset from the second axis of rotation. The example pipetting mechanism is to access the first carousel and the second carousel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Brian L. Ochranek, David C. Arnquist, Takehiko Oonuma, Hirotoshi Tahara, Naoto Sato
  • Publication number: 20140273242
    Abstract: Example apparatus and methods related to automated diagnostic analyzers having rear accessible track systems. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes an analyzer to perform a diagnostic test, the analyzer having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The example apparatus includes a loading bay disposed on the first side of the analyzer to receive a first carrier and a pipetting mechanism coupled to the analyzer adjacent the second side. The example apparatus also includes a first carrier shuttle to transport the first carrier from a first location adjacent the loading bay to a second location adjacent the pipetting mechanism and a track disposed adjacent the second side of the analyzer to transfer a second carrier to a third location adjacent the pipetting mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicants: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation, Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Brian L. Ochranek, David C. Arnquist, Takehiko Oonuma, Hirotoshi Tahara, Naoto Sato, Bradley P. Smith
  • Patent number: 8834792
    Abstract: A system and method for processing sample processing devices. The system can include a base plate adapted to rotate about a rotation axis. The system can further include a cover including a first projection, and a housing. A portion of the housing can be movable with respect to the base plate between an open position and a closed position, and can include a second projection. The first projection and the second projection can be adapted to be coupled together when the portion is in the open position and decoupled when the portion is in the closed position. The method can include coupling the cover to the portion of the housing, moving the portion of the housing from the open position to the closed position, and rotating the base plate about the rotation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Barry W. Robole, William Bedingham, Peter D. Ludowise, Jeffrey C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 8834791
    Abstract: The present invention is a sample analyzer comprising: a reagent storage configured to store a reagent container containing a reagent used for analyzing a sample, wherein the reagent storage comprises a liquid storing section which stores a liquid such that a surface of the liquid contacts an air within the reagent storage; and a liquid supply unit configured to supply the liquid into the liquid storing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Hironori Katsumi, Kazuya Fukuda
  • Patent number: 8834815
    Abstract: The invention relates to a valve structure for a microfluidic channel, where the valve serves the opening and closing of a channel (8) on a second level raised through channel pillars from the plane of the microfluidic channel network at the first level of a base plate (1), and where the channel wall is formed of a resilient material. The valve structure consists of a base plate (1) part, of protruding supporting walls (3, 3?) belonging to the base plate (1) and of a resilient part (7) between the supporting walls (3, 3?), within which the channel (8) is formed, and it consists furthermore of pressing appliances (9, 9?) situated on the two sides of the channel, as well as of displacement appliance (10) ensuring the movement of the pressing appliances in the direction of the mid-line of the channel (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Budapest Muszaki Es Gazdasagtudomanyi Egyetem
    Inventors: Hunor Santha, Gabor Harsanyi
  • Patent number: 8828319
    Abstract: A sample rack transport system comprising: a plurality of transport apparatuses which are connected so as to transport a sample rack to a plurality of sample processing apparatuses; and a control apparatus which communicates with the plurality of transport apparatuses and controls the transport of the sample rack by the plurality of transport apparatuses, wherein at least one of the plurality of transport apparatuses includes a transmission switch which is operated by a user to transmit a signal to the control apparatus, and when the transport of the sample rack has stopped due to a trouble which occurred in one of the plurality of transport apparatuses, responsive to an operation of a transmission switch of another transport apparatus, the control apparatus restarts the transport of the sample rack by the plurality of transport apparatuses. Also, a method for transporting a sample rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroo Tatsutani, Tomoyuki Asahara, Nobuyoshi Yamakawa
  • Patent number: 8821815
    Abstract: A cell isolation instrument includes: a first container which has an opening in an upper portion; a filtration member which defines at least a part of a lower portion of the first container; an isolation member which is movably housed in the first container to collide with a tissue, thereby isolating cells; and a second container which houses the first container in a manner that the first container can be taken out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Nihon Kohden Corporation
    Inventors: Takahiro Shioyama, Akane Suzuki, Teruo Okano, Tatsuya Shimizu, Yuji Haraguchi
  • Publication number: 20140241945
    Abstract: An automatic analysis device has a light scattering photometer incorporated therein, and improved accuracy resulting from reducing the influences from external light. The automatic analysis device includes a scattered light measurement unit disposed inside the main-body casing, and openable/closable protective covers to cover the top face of the main-body casing. A first protective cover at the center includes a light-shielding part to block external light. The protective covers include see-through parts enabling viewing of the inside. The light-shielding part is configured to cover an area of the reaction disk at least corresponding to the area above the scattered light measurement unit, thus reducing external light leaking into the scattered light measurement unit, and thus removing influences from external light on the scattered light measurement. The protective cover may have a divided structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: HITACHI HIGH-TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mitsuru Oonuma, Yoko Sato, Hajime Yamazaki, Akihito Wakui
  • Patent number: 8815153
    Abstract: A holding unit pivotally holds a plurality of reagent bottles which store reagents. A reagent case houses the holding unit and has an edge higher than at least the housed holding unit. The reagent cover is a cover for closing the reagent case. A cooling unit is mounted on one outer surface of the reagent case and cools air in the reagent case closed by the reagent cover through one outer surface. A circulating unit is mounted on the holding portion and circulates the cooled air in the reagent case closed by the reagent cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Naoto Sato
  • Patent number: 8815154
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a tape magazine especially for a hand-held device for analyzing a body fluid with a test tape that can be unwound from a storage unit and wound onto a waste unit where the waste unit can be driven in order to wind forward the test tape. The invention provides that a lock which keeps the test tape under tension is integrated in the tape magazine at least on the storage unit. The present invention also concerns a hand-held device with such a tape magazine. The present invention also concerns a hand-held device with a mechanical drive for the test tape and a disposable hand-held device with polymer-based electronic components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans List, Hans-Peter Haar, Bernd Rösicke
  • Patent number: 8808623
    Abstract: A diagnosis assisting system comprising: an analyzing section for analyzing a sample collected from a subject; a determining section for determining whether there is a possibility that a subject has a predetermined disease based on an analysis result obtained by the analyzing section; a notification section for notifying the possibility when the determining section has determined that there is the possibility; and a diagnosis assisting information display section for displaying a diagnosis assisting information screen which displays diagnosis assisting information related to the predetermined disease, is disclosed. A diagnosis assisting information providing device and a computer program product are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Jo Linssen, Matthias Guhl
  • Patent number: 8808624
    Abstract: This blood analyzer includes a sample preparation portion preparing a measurement sample free from a labeling substance from a blood sample and a hemolytic agent free from a labeling substance, a light information generation portion generating fluorescent information and at least two types of scattered light information from the measurement sample and a control portion performing a first classification of white blood cells in the measurement sample into at least four groups of monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils and others on the basis of the fluorescent information and the two types of scattered light information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Sysmex Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Matsumoto, Kinya Uchihashi, Yuji Itose, Aya Konishi
  • Publication number: 20140227135
    Abstract: To reduce the amount of warping deformation of a reaction cell block for an analysis device in which reaction cells and a holder are formed integrally in a complex shape with a resin material. At least one rib is provided on the front surface or the rear surface of one or both of a reaction cell arrangement face 4 or a coupling face 5 of a reaction cell block 18, the coupling face 5 being adapted to join the reaction cell arrangement face 4 and a flange face for attachment to an analysis device, whereby rigidity is increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventors: Tsutomu Kono, Tetsuji Kawahara, Norihisa Komori
  • Patent number: 8802035
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention feature a device (1) and method for performing steps of a multi-step process in parallel. The device (1) and method feature a rotor assembly (13) having vessel stations (33) and stator assembly (15) having work positions. The rotor assembly (13) rotates the vessels (17) to the work stations to perform steps of a multi-step process at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Waters Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Jenkins, Paul D. Rainville, Sylvain Cormier
  • Patent number: 8796029
    Abstract: A system for processing a target material includes; a cartridge which stores a material which reacts with the target material, and may include at least one chamber and at least one valve connected to the at least one chamber, a first module which may be loaded with the at least one cartridge and may rotate, a second module which may selectively open or close the at least one valve, a third module which may selectively control the temperature of the at least one chamber, and a control module which may control the first module, the second module and the third module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Won Seok Chung, Kak Namkoong, Joonho Kim, Kyuyoun Hwang, Heekyun Lim