Automated System With Sample Fluid Pressure Transport Means Patents (Class 422/81)
  • Patent number: 6130098
    Abstract: The movement and mixing of microdroplets through microchannels is described employing microscale devices, comprising microdroplet transport channels, reaction regions, electrophoresis modules, and radiation detectors. The discrete droplets are differentially heated and propelled through etched channels. Electronic components are fabricated on the same substrate material, allowing sensors and controlling circuitry to be incorporated in the same device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Michigan
    Inventors: Kalyan Handique, Bishnu Gogoi, Mark A. Burns, Carlos H. Mastrangelo
  • Patent number: 6120662
    Abstract: The device (1) has a cell (3) with an electrode structure for carrying out electrochemical detection or measurement of a liquid sample. A means for mechanically or pneumatically drawing the liquid sample into the cavity (20) of the cell (3) is provided. The drawing means may be in the form of a strip (10) which is mechanically drawn through the cell (3) drawing the liquid sample into the cavity (20) of the cell (3). The strip (10) can have a V-shape (44) portion which is placed in the liquid sample before the strip (10) is drawn through the cell (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Stephen J. Edwards, Brian J. Birch, Barry G. Haggett, John W. Dilleen
  • Patent number: 6120736
    Abstract: An analysis apparatus (1) for carrying out chemical analyses is disclosed, having a base member (3) in which there is at least one channel (8, 9), and having at least one functional element (12) which is in fluid or gaseous connection with the channel. In such an apparatus, it is desirable to facilitate maintenance and increase flexibility. For that purpose, the functional element (12) is positioned on the outside of the base member (3) and is in connection with the channel (8, 9) by way of at least one interface opening (10, 11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Danfoss A/S
    Inventors: Ole Ploug, Jacob B.o slashed.gh Poulsen
  • Patent number: 6117396
    Abstract: Provided is a liquid dispensing device for delivering defined volumes comprising (a) a reagent fill channel, (b) one or more metering capillaries connected to the reagent fill channel and having an exit, and (c) one or more sources of gas connected to the reagent fill channel, wherein after filing the one or more metering capillaries the reagent fill channel can be drained of liquid while liquid is retained in the one or more metering capillaries, and the source of gas can be operated to eject the liquid in the metering capillaries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Orchid Biocomputer, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Richard Demers
  • Patent number: 6117684
    Abstract: A flow cell for use in an analytical system of the type that may be used to test water samples for specific analytes. The flow cell reduces or eliminates the effects of backpressure on a liquid stream passing through the flow cell. This allows a sensor to be incorporated with the flow cell and enables the sensor to provide consistent output with respect to the analyte being tested without introducing signal error due to backpressure fluctuations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Zellweger Analytics, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott W. Stieg, James A. Dittmar, Karin L. Bogren
  • Patent number: 6114178
    Abstract: The invention is a process for analyzing a fluid sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Claude Dezael, Fabrice Lecomte
  • Patent number: 6110427
    Abstract: A flow regulator is provided which comprises a housing defining a chamber therein and including inlet and outlet ports that are adaptable to allow fluid to flow into and out of the chamber. A piston assembly, including an orifice defining member in which is formed an orifice, is movably disposed in the chamber and is capable of moving in directions toward and away from the outlet port. An urging device, such as a spring, magnetic or electromagnetic device, urges the piston assembly away from the outlet port. As fluid flows into the flow regulator, the fluid flows through the orifice. The clearance between a control surface of the piston assembly and the outlet port automatically adjusts so that an equilibrium condition occurs in the flow regulator in which the difference between the pressure of the fluid upstream of the orifice and the pressure of the fluid downstream of the orifice is maintained essentially constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Kenneth F. Uffenheimer
  • Patent number: 6106778
    Abstract: A compact combination blood cell count and immunoassay apparatus for measuring drawn whole blood specimen includes a load station for receiving the whole blood specimen and a nozzle member that can selectively withdraw whole blood from the blood specimen. A blood cell count section and an immunoassay section are mounted along a unitary path of movement of the nozzle member so that a single nozzle member may be used for transporting the whole blood to the respective blood cell count section and immunoassay section. A controller can automatically direct a transport mechanism to use only the whole blood and to perform various steps of adding dilution liquid and reagents, along with appropriate washing of the nozzle and sample cells to insure an automatic operation. A hematozorit value can be determined from the blood cell count signal and used to correct the immunoassay signal when whole blood is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Horiba, Ltd.
    Inventors: Narihiro Oku, Yasuo Yamao
  • Patent number: 6103196
    Abstract: Fluid sample tester assembly (12) comprises a cartridge (6) having a pressure chamber (22) and entrance port (20) connected by a passageway (24). An analyte reagent (36) is positioned along the fluid passageway so that when a liquid sample (28) is drawn through the entrance port into the passageway, the analyte reagent mixes with the sample. The sample is preferably drawn into the cartridge by temporarily reducing the volume of the pressure chamber, applying the sample to the entrance port and then returning the pressure chamber to its initial volume; this can also be done by heating the chamber, contacting the sample and then cooling the chamber. The end of the sample defines a boundary surface (30) along the fluid passageway. Positive and negative pressure is applied to the sample to cause the boundary surface to oscillate within the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventors: Zia Yassinzadeh, Paul J. Lingane
  • Patent number: 6100094
    Abstract: In the present invention, a disposable tip or a tip of a cleaning system is attached to a lower edge section of a nozzle, and the nozzle detects a liquid level by receiving fluctuation of a light close to the disposable tip or to an opening section at a lower end of the tip in the cleaning system, for instance, a light reflected from the liquid surface. In the present invention, not only the liquid level is detected, but also a liquid is filled in the disposable tip or the tip of a cleaning system detachably attached to the nozzle, a light is passed through the liquid in the disposable tip or the tip of a cleaning system, and a change of a light amount of the sucked liquid is detected, so that, for instance, a suction rate of the liquid, transparency thereof, contaminated by bubbles therein, clogging and a state wherein water has been exhausted are determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Precision System Science Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideji Tajima
  • Patent number: 6100096
    Abstract: A detector for detecting and measuring nitric oxide. Gas-permeable capillary membrane fibers transport a reagent solution through a plenum containing gases to be measured. Nitric oxide molecules penetrate the walls of the fibers and undergo a chemiluminescent reaction within. The fibers and the plenum are translucent, allowing photons emitted by the chemiluminescent reaction to escape and be detected by a photodetector. The reagent is buffered at an alkaline pH and mixed with the enzyme carbonic anhydrase to minimize the measurement errors caused by the presence of carbon dioxide in the gas to be measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: 2B Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Bollinger, John W. Birks, Jill K. Gregory
  • Patent number: 6097485
    Abstract: An ultra-miniature personal flow cytometer (pFCM) for the measurement of laser-induced fluorescence. The pFCM is approximately the size of a fluorescent microscope and includes a miniature optical module onto which the flow cytometry components are coupled. The miniature optical module is closely integrated with a flow cell through which a sample cell stream flows. The advantage of the pFCM is its compact size and efficiency that is made possible due to the unique microchip demultiplexing waveguide utilized in the separation of fluorescent wavelengths. The microchip demultiplexing waveguide is wholly contained in a tiny microchip consisting of a wave channel layer, a buffer layer, a substrate layer, and a plurality of micrograting filters. Photodetectors may either be coupled to the microchip demultiplexing waveguide by individual fiber optic members or incorporated into the wave channel layer in a photodiode array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Integrated Waveguides, Inc.
    Inventor: Bonnie A. Lievan
  • Patent number: 6086824
    Abstract: An automatic sample testing machine for testing samples stored in test cards. The machine has a test sample positioning system for moving a tray containing a plurality of test sample cards and fluid receptacles among various stations in the machine. The machine has a diluting station for adding a predetermined quantity of diluent to the receptacles as needed. A pipetting station transfers fluid from one receptacle to another. A vacuum station is provided having a vacuum chamber moveable relative to the tray between upper and lower positions. The chamber cooperates with the tray to make a sealing engagement with the top surface of the tray when it is lowered to the lower position. A vacuum generator supplies vacuum to the chamber. When the vacuum is released from the chamber, the fluid samples are loaded into the cards from the receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: bioMerieux, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Joseph Fanning, Jean-Pierre Bernard Gayral, Roger James Morris, Ron Robinson, William Ernest Seaton, David B. Shine, Paul Springer
  • Patent number: 6083763
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for analyzing molecular structures within a sample substance using an array having a plurality of test sites upon which the sample substance is applied. The invention is also directed to a method and apparatus for constructing molecular arrays having a plurality of test sites. The invention allows for definitive high throughput analysis of multiple analytes in complex mixtures of sample substances. A combinatorial analysis process is described that results in the creation of an array of integrated chemical devices. These devices operate in parallel, each unit providing specific sets of data that, when taken as a whole, give a complete answer for a defined experiment. This approach is uniquely capable of rapidly providing a high density of information from limited amounts of sample in a cost-effective manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Genometrix Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Balch
  • Patent number: 6083754
    Abstract: A method of continuous flow analysis is provided which enables a plurality of color-forming components contained in a sample to be simultaneously analyzed with utmost ease. The method involves irradiating the sample with a measuring light which generates a wavelength having absorption bands with respect to such color-forming components, measuring the absorbance of each of the components in a color-formed state while the components are being adjusted stepwise in their color-forming state, and comparing the resultant absorbances of the components with each other. Preferably, a plurality of measuring cells are used to stepwise adjust the sample in its color-forming state, the measuring cells being connected in tandem such that a color former and/or a masking agent are incorporated in the sample while the latter is being caused to successively flow through these cells so that the sample is adjusted in its color-forming state at each of the measuring cells and measured in respect of its absorbances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Materials Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Sakurai, Yutaka Hayashibe, Minoru Takeya, Yasumasa Sayama
  • Patent number: 6077713
    Abstract: Extracting a quantity of liquid from a closed container by driving a cannula having a passage the length of the cannula and a groove a partial length of the cannula through the closure of the container until the groove establishes communication between a pressurized chamber and the container, thereby forcing liquid from the tube through the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Dade Behring Inc.
    Inventors: William David Dunfee, Edward Stephen Kaminski, John Charles Mazza, Kerry Lynn Miller, Jeffery Kenneth Parmer, Paul John Zuk
  • Patent number: 6074880
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method which allows user controlled formation, and ejection of droplets of sample analyte containing solutions, thereby enabling precise user directed fractionalization and distributed collection of sample analytes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Transgenomic, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Sutton, Donn H. Vanden Bosch
  • Patent number: 6071478
    Abstract: An analytical or preparatory system comprised as a base unit, an adapter, and a substrate. The adapter is attached to an attachment region on the base unit, and the substrate is attached to an attachment region on the adapter. The adapter permits the base unit to be interfaced with a wide variety of different substrates to perform chemical and biological analytical analyses and preparatory procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.
    Inventor: Calvin Y. H. Chow
  • Patent number: 6068978
    Abstract: Methods, devices, apparatus and kits for amplifying and detecting nucleic acid are provided. The apparatus is a one or two-tier thermal cycling device that operates in conjunction with a reaction/detection unit. A sample is loaded into a reaction chamber of the device which is then mated with a detection chamber to form the reaction/detection unit. A first heating element of the thermal cycling apparatus applies a desired temperature to the reaction/detection device to amplify target nucleic acid in the sample. The reaction mixture is then transferred to the detection chamber by the second heating element and amplified target nucleic acid is immobilized on a support in the detection chamber. Microprocessor control controls the heat applied by the second element independently of the heat applied by the first element. A detection system associated with the apparatus detects and analyzes the immobilized amplified nucleic acid target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Peter Zaun, Stanley R. Bouma, Julian Gordon, John J. Kotlarik, Natalie A. Solomon
  • Patent number: 6060024
    Abstract: A dissolution testing system including a base; a plurality of vessels mounted on the base; an agitation mechanism for agitating a liquid content of the vessels; and a head supported above each of the vessels and operable to automatically inject a liquid media into the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Zymark Corporation
    Inventors: Burleigh M. Hutchins, Randall B. Rubinstein, Barry T. Hixon, William J. Buote
  • Patent number: 6060320
    Abstract: A nethod of verifying sample volume quantifies the fluid volume aspirated and verifies sample uniformity by detecting the presence of foam or clots in the sample. After aspiration, a pressure sensor is used to measure the vacuum needed to hold up the column of fluid in the probe tip. By knowing the geometry of the probe tip, the vacuum can be converted to a sample weight and volume, based on sample densities. Non-ideal conditions, such as foam on the surface of the fluid or a clot in the fluid, result in a sample volume much lighter in the case if foam, or much greater, in the case of a clot, than anticipated. The method also determines the elapsed time of the aspiration. Foamy samples result in aspiration times shorter than normal. Clotted samples result in aspiration times longer than normal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Bayer Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Dorenkott, Carl F. Panek
  • Patent number: 6056923
    Abstract: A dual injector for an automated immunoassay instrument is provided which allows the sequential detection of two different chemiluminescence labels within one instrument. The injector has four carefully designed orifices. The orifices are designed to work in two pairs. Orifices one and two can be used to inject trigger reagents A and B which can trigger a chemiluminescent reaction, such as acridinium. Orifices three and four can inject trigger reagents C and D for triggering a chemiluminescent reaction, such as luminol. The two pairs can be used in a sequential manner to generate signals in the wells of a cuvette. Thus, it is possible to run both acridinium and luminol based assays on one instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: CLMP, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald N Diamond, Michael Otter, Thomas Sheng-Shyong Hu, William A Stark
  • Patent number: 6054277
    Abstract: A genetic testing system includes a miniaturized thermal cycling device and an integrated, unitary microchip based detection device with microfluidic controls, on chip electronics. The genetic testing system further uses dipped or coated polymeric materials on processed silicon as a means to facilitate amplification chemistry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventors: Leo T. Furcht, Ronald C. McGlennen, Dennis L. Polla
  • Patent number: 6051189
    Abstract: A system and method for detection, identification, and monitoring of submicron sized particles, the method including the steps of collecting a sample, extracting existing submicron particles from the collected sample based on density, purifying the extracted submicron particles by concentrating the extracted submicron particles based on size, and, detecting and identifying the purified extracted submicron particles based on size and density thereby determining submicron particles present in the collected sample. The submicron particles detected and identified include viruses and virus-like agents such as prions. Thus, virus and virus-like agents can be detected and identified based only on their physical properties without the use of biochemical reagents or assays. A system for carrying out the method of detection and identification of these particles is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Charles H. Wick, David M. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6048444
    Abstract: A capillary electrophoresis apparatus of the invention has: a plurality of capillaries which are filled with a migration medium and have first ends into which samples are injected and second ends in which components included in the samples are eluted; a sheath flow cell in which the second ends are arranged in a straight line at first predetermined intervals and are terminated and a sheath flow is formed; a buffer solution vessel for housing a buffer solution flowing in the sheath flow cell; a drain vessel housing the buffer solution flowed from the sheath flow cell; an optical system emitting laser light to a part near the second ends; and a fluorescent detection system for detecting fluorescent light generated from fluorophore labelling the components included in the sample eluted near the second ends by the emission of laser light, wherein the buffer solution flows from the lower part to the upper part of the sheath flow cell, thereby forming a sheath flow in the sheath flow cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoshi Takahashi, Hideki Kambara, Takashi Yamada
  • Patent number: 6045755
    Abstract: In a first embodiment, this invention includes an integrated robot apparatus for performing combinatorial chemistry synthesis protocols and having interchangeable work-stations, robot arm tools, and reaction vessels and reaction vessel arrays. The work-stations and tools are specialized to perform tasks necessary for the synthesis in a plurality of the reaction vessels grouped in a plurality of the reaction vessel arrays. Preferably, these elements function interchangeably because they have standardized sizes and conformation. The work-stations and tools include those for fluid dispensing or aspirating from individual reaction vessels or from all the reaction vessels in an array simultaneously. The reaction vessels can include, alternatively, stackable, ball-sealed reaction vessels, microtitre-like reaction vessel arrays, arrays of independent reaction vessels, valve-sealed reaction vessels, septum-sealed reaction vessels, and syringe reaction vessels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Trega Biosciences,, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Lebl, Vit Pokorny, Viktor Krchnak
  • Patent number: 6040186
    Abstract: A modular vial autosampler has a storage area for vials containing samples to be analyzed and at least one modular sampling station. A vial transfer mechanism lifts a sample vial from the storage section, moves it to a station for identification and then to a sampling station, and under central control activates the sampling station for obtaining a sample for analysis. The vial transfer mechanism is movable in x, y, and z directions to capture and move a selected vial. The autosampler has a series of valves operable under central control to selectively introduce two different standards into the sample, and after obtaining the sample, for rinsing and purging the conduits or lines and needles to reduce sample carryover. The modular vial autosampler includes controls to selectively sample either a gas or a liquid using many of the same components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Tekmar Company
    Inventors: Edmund T. Lewis, Thomas B. Green
  • Patent number: 6033911
    Abstract: An automated assaying system is disclosed having a multiplicity of lumens oriented and controllable in clusters. The lumens are portrayed in a matrix, wherein each row of the matrix consists of one such cluster that is individually controllable for aspiration and dispensation purposes. Also provided is a unique wash system capable of flushing the entirety of the system. A method is also depicted for accomplishing this unique assaying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Hamilton Company
    Inventors: Harold R. Schultz, Gregory Gulla, James E. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6033914
    Abstract: An electro-analytical cartridge adapted for use in analyzing fluids. The cartridge includes an electrochemical device that measures ionic activity using ion-specific electrodes. The cartridge further includes a plumbing system composed of the electrochemical device and various wells or chambers which are interconnected by passageways. After introduction into the cartridge, liquid samples are measured out and transported to the electrochemical device utilizing a sequential application of centrifugal force followed by pressurization of the system. Reference fluid is transported from a reference fluid well or reservoir to the electrochemical device for use in measuring ionic activity. The cartridge may be used to measure the ionic activity of a wide variety of ions in fluids including bodily fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Careside, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas E. Boyd, Jan B. Yates, Ronald K. Coleman
  • Patent number: 6013528
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for detecting patient sample quality, and/or analytes, in the tip used to aspirate the patient sample liquid and then dispense it onto a slide test element. Spectrophotometric analysis is done on the liquid while still in the tip, by scanning the tip for transmittance in a light-tight enclosure, using NIR and adjacent visible radiation, and detecting the absorbance spectra of the liquid. Thereafter, or prior thereto, the liquid is dispensed onto a dried slide test element for assaying analytes that are not assayed spectrophotometrically, thus enhancing throughput.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Ortho-Clinical Diagnostis, Inc.
    Inventors: Merrit Nyles Jacobs, Davis Freeman, III, James David Shaw, James Samsoondar, Thomas Moffett
  • Patent number: 6007776
    Abstract: A measurement instrument for analyzing a body fluid of a human body comprises a casing having a pair of liquid inlets and a pair of liquid outlets, and a sensor assembly slidably telescoped in the casing. The sensor assembly comprises a pair of liquid passages each aligned with a corresponding one the pair of liquid inlets and a corresponding one of the pair of liquid outlets at a specified position of the sensor assembly. One of the liquid passages is associated with a sensor for being a specific ingredient in the body fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Toru Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6004822
    Abstract: Described is a device and method for facilitating the determination of the solubility and dissolution properties of chemical compounds in various solvents. The device uses submilliliter quantities of a solvent and correspondingly small amounts of the chemical compound. The device enables solubility measurements to be made on small amounts of chemical compounds, and enables multiple sampling for generating dissolution profiles. The device includes a housing having first chamber in fluid communication with a second chamber. A pump is provided to force alternatingly the solvent from one chamber to another. A filter located between, and in fluid communication with, the first and second chambers allows flow of a solution of the solvent and the chemical compound between the chambers, and the filter prevents the passage of undissolved compound. The device may also be used for titration studies of submilliliter quantities of solutions or suspensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Alfred LaGreca
    Inventors: Jianmin Li, Bradley D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6002475
    Abstract: An analytical cartridge adapted for use in analyzing fluids for spectrophotometry. The cartridge includes a plumbing system composed of the cuvette and various wells or chambers which are interconnected by passageways. After introduction into the cartridge, liquid samples are separated (if necessary) and transported to a cuvette utilizing a sequential application of centrifugal force followed by pressurization of the system. The cartridge may be used in a wide variety of spectrophotometric procedures to measure the concentration of a wide variety of constituents in fluids, including bodily fluids which contain liquid and solid components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Careside, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas E. Boyd, Jan B. Yates, Ronald Coleman, James Hutchison, Richard Riedel
  • Patent number: 6001307
    Abstract: This invention provides a device for analyzing a sample which is capable of performing rapid and precise analysis of a small amount of sample, and whose gradient in a measuring apparatus is not limited. This device comprises approximately a rectangular plate shaped body comprising a base member made of resin and a transparent covering. A first depressed cylindrical concave portion is formed in the upper surface of the base member, and a groove is formed in communication with the first depressed cylindrical concave portion, the groove extending to the end of the protrusion portion 5c, and a second depressed cylindrical concave portion which is smaller than the first depressed cylindrical concave portion is formed in a certain position in the groove, the end of the groove opening to the outside at the end of the protrusion portion 5c. Then, the transparent covering is placed over the upper surface of the base member and then integrated together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Kyoto Daiichi Kagaku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Michio Naka, Kouji Hirayama, Yoshihiko Higuchi, Masufumi Koike, Hisashi Okuda
  • Patent number: 5998217
    Abstract: A modular vial autosampler has a storage area for vials containing samples to be analyzed and at least one modular sampling station. A vial transfer mechanism lifts a sample vial from the storage section, moves it to a station for identification and then to a sampling station, and under central control activates the sampling station for obtaining a sample for analysis. The vial transfer mechanism is movable in x, y, and z directions to capture and move a selected vial. The autosampler has a series of valves operable under central control to selectively introduce two different standards into the sample, and after obtaining the sample, for rinsing and purging the conduits or lines and needles to reduce sample carryover. The modular vial autosampler includes controls to selectively sample either a gas or a liquid using many of the same components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: TEKMAR Company
    Inventors: Prabhakar P. Rao, Edmund T. Lewis, Thomas B. Green
  • Patent number: 5993742
    Abstract: A device for the investigation of liquids, in particular of waste water, includes at least one reaction chamber for receiving the liquid to be investigated as well as liquids for analysis from storage containers. The reaction chamber is disposed in a housing while the storage containers are accommodated within the housing or are set up outside. The housing may be positioned in a freely floating manner within the liquid to be investigated or may be set up outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: ABB Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Binz, Albrecht Vogel, Brith Claesson, Hubert Braendle, Sean Keeping
  • Patent number: 5993744
    Abstract: A modular vial autosampler has a storage area for vials containing samples to be analyzed and at least one modular sampling station. A vial transfer mechanism lifts a sample vial from the storage section, moves it to a station for identification and then to a sampling station, and under central control activates the sampling station for obtaining a sample for analysis. The vial transfer mechanism is movable in x, y, and z directions to capture and move a selected vial. The autosampler has a series of valves operable under central control to selectively introduce two different standards into the sample, and after obtaining the sample, for rinsing and purging the conduits or lines and needles to reduce sample carryover. The modular vial autosampler includes controls to selectively sample either a gas or a liquid using many of the same components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Tekmar Company
    Inventors: Prabhakar P. Rao, Edmund T. Lewis, Thomas B. Green
  • Patent number: 5985215
    Abstract: In an analyzing apparatus of the present invention, sample racks, in each of which a plurality of sample containers are held, are transferred from a rack feeding unit to a discrimination unit for discriminating a type of each sample container. After the discrimination unit, a plurality of analyzing units are installed along a transfer line, and pipetters of different types are provided in the respective analyzing units. The discrimination unit detects information on the length and the width of each sample container held in each sample rack by using an optical detector. A control part selects one of the analyzing units, suitable for analyzing the sample container of which type was discriminated, based on the information detected by the discrimination unit, and transfers the sample container of which type was discriminated, to a sample pipetting position in the selected analyzing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Taku Sakazume, Hiroshi Mitsumaki, Tomonori Mimura, Kazumitsu Kawase
  • Patent number: 5985651
    Abstract: A thermocycling apparatus comprising a plurality of capillaries for moving DNA-containing samples between two or more discrete zones maintained at selected elevated temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventor: Scott P. Hunicke-Smith
  • Patent number: 5985216
    Abstract: A sorting nozzle having two tapered zones with elliptical cross-sections is able to orient and sort a large fraction of asymmetrical or "flattened" cells. This nozzle has particular application for sorting viable male (Y) and female (X) sperm populations in a cell sorter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Willem Rens, Glenn R. Welch, Lawrence A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5981295
    Abstract: A storage device containing a quantity of a liquid chemical substance which is used as a reactant in a chemical process, the device being composed of: a closed container holding the quantity of substance and having a wall provided with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; an inlet valve coupled to said inlet opening, the inlet valve being closeable to block said inlet opening; an outlet valve coupled to the outlet opening, the outlet valve being closeable to block the outlet opening; and a filter interposed between the quantity of liquid and said outlet valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: John V. Schmitt
  • Patent number: 5981289
    Abstract: A hydrogen sulfide analyzer that continuously samples waste water from a waste stream or reservoir and measures the concentration of purgeable H.sub.2 S present (H.sub.2 SP) This information, when combined with the volume of water present, provides a control quality signal that regulates the feed rate of the destructor chemical into the waste stream. This results in chemical savings for the user. A second result is the reduction in odor complaints and the corrosion problems associated with H.sub.2 S emissions. The analyzer measures only the purgeable H.sub.2 S contained in the liquid sample. The analyzer violently agitates the sample containing dissolved H.sub.2 S in solution to simulate actual conditions at points of agitation in the waste water stream. It also provides nearly optimal partial pressure conditions for the H.sub.2 S to exit the solution as a free gas. Any H.sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Isco, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Wright, David J. Shannon, Lowell R. Nickolaus, Randy J. Forman, Clifford L. McDonald, Bennett K. Horenstein
  • Patent number: 5980830
    Abstract: A portable, modular blood analyzer capable of analyzing multiple blood values in an inexpensive, relatively simple, easy-to-use and easy-to-maintain instrument. The invention comprises a three-part system including an analyzer body, calibrant cartridge, and sensor cartridge. A modular calibrant cartridge is insertable into the analyzer body, and contains all necessary calibrant fluids as well as a waste container. A modular sensor cartridge having integral pump tubing plugs into the analyzer body for easy removal and replacement of the sensor elements. The analyzer body internally has modular units including an electronics module, a display module, and a fluidics/printer module. The analyzer uses a single pump head to aspirate blood only to a sensor array within the sensor cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: SenDx Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Robert Savage, Ronald Lee Lawrence
  • Patent number: 5980704
    Abstract: A system and method for accomplishing a plurality of combinatorial processes in parallel comprising a microelectronic and fluidic array (device array) having micron-sized reservoirs, connecting microchannels and reaction cells etched into a substrate. The device array is supported by a station which serves to interface and perform electro-optic measurements of material in the reaction cells of the device array. The device array incorporates a modular configuration with three distinct layers or plates. The device array comprises a top feedthru plate, a center distribution plate and a bottom cell plate. The three plates are stacked vertically and coupled together to form a liquid-tight seal. Reservoirs, microchannels and reactions cells are controllably etched onto the plates using traditional semiconductor fabrication techniques. The top feedthru plate serves as a cover for the device array and contains apertures selectively positioned above the reservoirs located in the center distribution plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: David Sarnoff Research Center Inc.
    Inventors: Satyam Choudary Cherukuri, Robert Richard Demers, Zhong Hui Hugh Fan, Aaron W. Levine, Sterling Edward McBride, Peter John Zanzucchi
  • Patent number: 5976465
    Abstract: Analyzers determine the concentration of a test substance by measuring the change of pH in a sample liquid after reaction of the test substance with a reactant. The analyzers have a tube connected between first and second microcapillary pH electrodes. In a first embodiment, the tube functions as a reaction chamber by having a reactant immobilized on a wall of the tubing or confined within the tubing. In a second embodiment, the reactant and test substance are mixed upstream relative to the first and second microcapillary pH electrodes, with the tubing serving as a delay circuit for a kinetic measurement. Output signals of the microcapillary flow-through electrodes are used to determine a change in pH, the change in pH being indicative of the concentration of the test substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Universita Degli Studi Di Milano
    Inventors: Massimo Luzzana, Luigi Rossi Bernardi
  • Patent number: 5976464
    Abstract: An installation for monitoring an apparatus for generating atmospheres. The installation includes a measuring device for measuring at least one parameter representing the actual operation of the apparatus, an evaluator for evaluating the drift of each representative parameter over time and a trigger for triggering an intervention on the apparatus as a function of the drift before values of each representative parameter reach predetermined critical values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Pascale Pourtalet-McSweeny, Philippe Poynot
  • Patent number: 5972710
    Abstract: A channel-cell system is provided for detecting the presence and/or measuring the presence of analyte particles in a sample stream comprising: a) a laminar flow channel; b) two inlets in fluid connection with the laminar flow channel for respectively conducting into the laminar flow channel (1) an indicator stream which may comprise an indicator substance which indicates the presence of the analyte particles by a detectable change in property when contacted with the analyte particles, and (2) the sample stream; c) wherein the laminar flow channel has a depth sufficiently small to allow laminar flow of the streams and a length sufficient to allow particles of the analyte to diffuse into the indicator stream to the substantial exclusion of the larger particles in the sample stream to form a detection area; and d) an outlet for conducting the streams out of the laminar flow channel to form a single mixed stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: University of Washington
    Inventors: Bernhard H. Weigl, Paul Yager, James P. Brody, Mark R. Holl, Margaret Kenny, David Schutte, Gregory Hixson, M. Diane Zebert, Andrew Kamholz, Caicai Wu, Eric Altendorf
  • Patent number: 5965450
    Abstract: A system for measuring the amount of cyanide species in a sample, namely total cyanide, dissociable cyanide, complex cyanide and thiocyanate, by using a single apparatus for simultaneous ultraviolet irradiation and distillation. The system which can be used with either segmented flow or flow injection sampling utilizes filter components which pass only lower frequency ultraviolet radiation interposed between a photoillumination source and the alkaline or acidified sample to first breakdown the strong complex cyanide from the sample without dissociation of thiocyanates. The system then distills the irradiated sample in the same apparatus by utilizing heat emitted from the photoillumination source to recover the total cyanides for measurement. Dissociable cyanides, as well as thiocyanate, are measured using the same apparatus by altering the filter components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Nabih P. Kelada
  • Patent number: 5965448
    Abstract: A flow injection analytical apparatus which is capable of continuously performing flow analysis of a sample, produces precipitates during the flow through a capillary. The precipitation separation type continuous flow analytical apparatus has a sample injection portion, a reagent addition portion and an analytical portion which are integrally communicated by a measurement pipeline to form a measurement system. A precipitant addition portion and a filtration portion are provided between the sample injection portion and the reagent addition portion in order to continuously perform production and filtration of precipitates during flow of the sample solution to the reagent addition portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Materials Corporation
    Inventors: Masaaki Katou, Yutaka Hayashibe, Minoru Takeya, Yasumasa Sayama
  • Patent number: 5965090
    Abstract: An automatic sample testing machine for testing samples stored in test cards. The machine has a test sample positioning system for moving a tray containing a plurality of test sample cards and fluid receptacles among various stations in the machine. The machine has a diluting station for adding a predetermined quantity of diluent to the receptacles as needed. A pipetting station transfers fluid from one receptacle to another. A vacuum station is provided having a vacuum chamber moveable relative to the tray between upper and lower positions. The chamber cooperates with the tray to make a sealing engagement with the top surface of the tray when it is lowered to the lower position. A vacuum generator supplies vacuum to the chamber. When the vacuum is released from the chamber, the fluid samples are loaded into the cards from the receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: bioMerieux, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Joseph Fanning, Clifford W. Karl, Donald Meyer, William Ernest Seaton, Paul Springer, Craig Drager