CA1321374C - Rotor for processing liquids using movable capillary tubes - Google Patents
Rotor for processing liquids using movable capillary tubesInfo
- Publication number
- CA1321374C CA1321374C CA000572232A CA572232A CA1321374C CA 1321374 C CA1321374 C CA 1321374C CA 000572232 A CA000572232 A CA 000572232A CA 572232 A CA572232 A CA 572232A CA 1321374 C CA1321374 C CA 1321374C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- capillary tube
- sample
- diluent
- chamber
- rotor body
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
- B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
- B01L3/502—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures
- B01L3/5027—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip
- B01L3/502738—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip characterised by integrated valves
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
- B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
- B01L3/502—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures
- B01L3/5027—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip
- B01L3/502753—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip characterised by bulk separation arrangements on lab-on-a-chip devices, e.g. for filtration or centrifugation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B04—CENTRIFUGAL APPARATUS OR MACHINES FOR CARRYING-OUT PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES
- B04B—CENTRIFUGES
- B04B5/00—Other centrifuges
- B04B5/04—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers
- B04B5/0407—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers for liquids contained in receptacles
- B04B5/0414—Radial chamber apparatus for separating predominantly liquid mixtures, e.g. butyrometers for liquids contained in receptacles comprising test tubes
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N21/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of optical means, i.e. using sub-millimetre waves, infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
- G01N21/01—Arrangements or apparatus for facilitating the optical investigation
- G01N21/03—Cuvette constructions
- G01N21/07—Centrifugal type cuvettes
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N33/00—Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups G01N1/00 - G01N31/00
- G01N33/48—Biological material, e.g. blood, urine; Haemocytometers
- G01N33/483—Physical analysis of biological material
- G01N33/487—Physical analysis of biological material of liquid biological material
- G01N33/49—Blood
- G01N33/491—Blood by separating the blood components
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/08—Geometry, shape and general structure
- B01L2300/0803—Disc shape
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2400/00—Moving or stopping fluids
- B01L2400/04—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means
- B01L2400/0403—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific forces
- B01L2400/0409—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific forces centrifugal forces
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2400/00—Moving or stopping fluids
- B01L2400/06—Valves, specific forms thereof
- B01L2400/0633—Valves, specific forms thereof with moving parts
- B01L2400/065—Valves, specific forms thereof with moving parts sliding valves
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T436/00—Chemistry: analytical and immunological testing
- Y10T436/11—Automated chemical analysis
- Y10T436/111666—Utilizing a centrifuge or compartmented rotor
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T436/00—Chemistry: analytical and immunological testing
- Y10T436/25—Chemistry: analytical and immunological testing including sample preparation
- Y10T436/25375—Liberation or purification of sample or separation of material from a sample [e.g., filtering, centrifuging, etc.]
Abstract
ROTOR FOR PROCESSING LIQUIDS
USING MOVABLE CAPILLARY TUBES
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A rotor assembly for processing liquids, especially whole blood samples, is disclosed. The assembly includes apparatus for separating non-liquid components of whole blood samples from liquid components, apparatus for diluting the separated liquid component with a diluent and apparatus for transferring the diluted sample to an external apparatus for analysis. The rotor assembly employs several movable capillary tubes to handle the sample and diluents. A method for using the rotor assembly to process liquids is also described.
USING MOVABLE CAPILLARY TUBES
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A rotor assembly for processing liquids, especially whole blood samples, is disclosed. The assembly includes apparatus for separating non-liquid components of whole blood samples from liquid components, apparatus for diluting the separated liquid component with a diluent and apparatus for transferring the diluted sample to an external apparatus for analysis. The rotor assembly employs several movable capillary tubes to handle the sample and diluents. A method for using the rotor assembly to process liquids is also described.
Description
-132~37~ :
RCqOR ~OR PROCESSING LICUIDS USING MOV~BLE
CAPILLARY ~UBES
~IELD OF THE INVENTION
~ he invention relates to a rotor for processing liquids. More particularlyr the invention relates to a rotor for sep3rating a liquid into its solid and liquid components, and diluting a specific aliquot of the liquid ccmponent with a diluent.
EACKGRoUND OF T~E~rNVENTION
Rotors for pro~essing liquids, along with modifications and improve~en~s, have ~een previously described in various patents and disclosures. For e~a~ple, U.S. Patent 3,901,658 issued on August 26, 1975, discloses a rotor assembly for performing photcmetric analyses using whole blood sa~ples. A gross blood sample is loaded within a centrally located, rem~vable, cell sedimentation bowl and the red blocd cells are centrifugally separated from the plasma. The plasma is then displaced from the sedimentation bcwl, and measured subvolumes of plasma are distributed to respective s~mple analysis cuvettes positioned in an annular array ab~ut the rotor periphery. Additional mæans ~or adding reagents to the respective cuvettes are also disclosed.
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Another example of a roto- de~ice useful in processLng liquids is described in Canadian patent appln. Ser. No, 514,057 filed on July 17, 1986, which was publicly disclosed soon thereafter under the Department of Energy licensing p~x~am. This application discloses an apparatus for automatic processil~g and aliquoting of whole blood samples for analysis in a centrifugal fast analyzer. More particularly, this rotor is desig~ed to prepare precise aliquots of serum samples from whole blood and automatically load the serum sa~ples into serum capillaries.
m is device includes no provision for diluting the serum samples with reagents or other diluents.
U.S. Patent 4,515,889 issued on May 7, 1985, discloses a method for carrying out analytical det~rm mations by mixing and incubating a sample solution with at least one reagent and optically measuring a parameter in the incubated reaction mixture. The mixing, incubating and measuring are carried out durin~ the action of a centrif~l force exerted by rotation of a rotor. Ihis de~ice includes no provision for separating non-liquid ccmponents frGm liquid mixtures.
U.S. Patent 4,S57,600 issued on December 10, 1985, discloses a process and device for the centrifugal control and mixing of limited volum2s of fluid, especially in the rotor of a centrifugal analyæer.
The device includes at least one baffle chamber, in a flcw canal for the fluid the volume of which is greater than the volume of fluid. The baffle is shaped such that when the device is rotated at a sufficiently high first speed of rotation, the fluid remaLns in the chamber. Upon . - . .. : .: .: .. .. :. ~
~3~ ~32137~ ~
rotation of the rotor at a second lower speed of rotation, the fluid flows out of the baffle chamber as a result of a boundary surface force. Again, this device includes no means for separating non-liquid components of a liquid mixture.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a rotor which can provide sample preparation and place~ent. More particularly, the device must be able to accept a liquid mixture in a capîllary tube, spin it down to separate non-liquid components from liquid components, draw a known volu~e of the liquid component and mix it with a known volume of a diluent, draw a known volume of the diluted liquid ccmponent, and place the known volume of diluted liquid component on an analysis test pad.
SUMM~RY OF THE INVENTIO~
~he present invention relates to a rotor assemhly useful in processing and diluting liquid nixtures for analysis which cc~prises a rotor bo~y rotatable about an axis of rotation; a separation chamber housed in the rotor body for sepaxatin~ a liquid component from a non-liquid camponent; a mLxing chamber housed in the rotor bcdy for mixing a liquid material with a ~;luent; a diluent chamber housed in the rotor kody for holding a volume of a diluent; a diluent addition port in the rotor body and m fluid connection with the diluent chamber for introduction of a diluent to the diluent chamber; a sa~ple introduction chamber ho~sed in the rotor body and in fluid connection with ~he separation chamber for intrcduction of a ~ample to ~he separation chamber; a dilu~ed sample retainer associated with the rotor body for .; ~ ' ' ~ ! . ' ~32~ 371 retaining a diluted liquid sample; movable means housed in the rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from the separation chamber to the mixing chamber;
movable means housed in the rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a diluent from the diluent chamber to the mixing chamber; and movable means housed in the rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from the mixing chamber to the diluted sample retainer.
The present invention also relates to a method for processing liquids which comprises providing a rotor body rotatable about an axis of rotation having a separation chamber, a mixing chamber, and a diluent chamber; introducing a liquid sample and a liquid diluent to separate locations in the rotor body; rotating the rotor body to transfer the liquid diluent to the diluent chamber, !~
to transfer the liquid sample to the separation chamber and to separate at least one non-liquid component of the liquid sample from at least one liquid component of the liquid sample; stopping the rotation of the rotor body; transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of the diluent to the mixing chamber, transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of the liquid component of the liquid sample to the mixing chamber; and rotating the rotor body to mix the diluent with the liquid componen-t of the liquid sample.
Accordingly, it is the primary object of the present invention to provide a device that will automatlcally deliver a specific aliquot of a specifically diluted liquid component of a liquid material to an analysis pad or cuvette.
Ç3 ,, ., ,. : .
.
5- 132~37~
It is also an object of this invention to pr~vide a blocd sample pr~cessor that will separate the blood serum from the blood cells, draw a specific aliquot of the blood serum, dilute the aliquot of the blood serum with a specific amount of diluent, draw a specific aliquot of the diluted blood serum, and deliver the aliquot of diluted serum to an analytical test pad or other analysis devi oe.
m ese and other objects of the present invention will be apparent from the detailed description to follow.
ERIEF DESCRIPqlON OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a plan view of the rotor of the present invention with the top plate removed and in the sample introduction position.
Fig. 2 is a plan view of the rotor of the present invention with the top plate removed and in the liquid mixing position.
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional elevation view along line 3-3 of Fig. 2 ~ ;
of one embodlment of the means for transferring the diluted liquid sample frcm the muxing chamber to a sample reta~ner.
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional elevation view sImilar to Fig. 3 ~howing a ~second em~odLment of the m~ans for transferring the diluted s~ple from the ~uxing chamber to a sample retainer.
Fig. 5 is a cross-section31 elevation view similar to Fig. 3 showing a third alternative embodlment of the means for transferring the diluted liquid sample from the mixlng chamber to a sample retainer.
~ .
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DETAILED_DESCRIPq~lON OF THE PRETERRED EMEODIMENTS
In Fig. 1, there .is shown a rotor body 10 which can rotate about an axis of rotation R. Rotor body 10 is illustrated in a highly simplified nanner and includes a top plate lOa (removed for clarity), a main body 10b, and a bottom plate 10c. The main body 10b includes a separation ~
chamber 11, a mLxing chamber 12, and a diluent chamber 13 housed ~ -therein. Fluidly connected to the diluent chamber 13 by a diluent channel 14 is a diluent addition port 15. Fluidly connected to the sep~ration chamber 11 by a sample channel 16 is a sample addition port 17. Housed in the sample addition port 17 is a capillary tube holder 18 into which sample tube 19 is inserted by snap-in engagement. Housed in the mlxing chamber 12 is a mountin~ device 20 which is capable of holding three capillary tubes 21, 22 and 23. Capillary tubes 21 and 23 are shcwn in their sample introduction position. Capillary tubes 21 and 23 are pi~otally mounted on mounting device 2Q such that they may be rotated into fluid engagement with muxiny chamber 12 as shown in Fig.
RCqOR ~OR PROCESSING LICUIDS USING MOV~BLE
CAPILLARY ~UBES
~IELD OF THE INVENTION
~ he invention relates to a rotor for processing liquids. More particularlyr the invention relates to a rotor for sep3rating a liquid into its solid and liquid components, and diluting a specific aliquot of the liquid ccmponent with a diluent.
EACKGRoUND OF T~E~rNVENTION
Rotors for pro~essing liquids, along with modifications and improve~en~s, have ~een previously described in various patents and disclosures. For e~a~ple, U.S. Patent 3,901,658 issued on August 26, 1975, discloses a rotor assembly for performing photcmetric analyses using whole blood sa~ples. A gross blood sample is loaded within a centrally located, rem~vable, cell sedimentation bowl and the red blocd cells are centrifugally separated from the plasma. The plasma is then displaced from the sedimentation bcwl, and measured subvolumes of plasma are distributed to respective s~mple analysis cuvettes positioned in an annular array ab~ut the rotor periphery. Additional mæans ~or adding reagents to the respective cuvettes are also disclosed.
~ .
':.
~' ,','.
~3~37~
Another example of a roto- de~ice useful in processLng liquids is described in Canadian patent appln. Ser. No, 514,057 filed on July 17, 1986, which was publicly disclosed soon thereafter under the Department of Energy licensing p~x~am. This application discloses an apparatus for automatic processil~g and aliquoting of whole blood samples for analysis in a centrifugal fast analyzer. More particularly, this rotor is desig~ed to prepare precise aliquots of serum samples from whole blood and automatically load the serum sa~ples into serum capillaries.
m is device includes no provision for diluting the serum samples with reagents or other diluents.
U.S. Patent 4,515,889 issued on May 7, 1985, discloses a method for carrying out analytical det~rm mations by mixing and incubating a sample solution with at least one reagent and optically measuring a parameter in the incubated reaction mixture. The mixing, incubating and measuring are carried out durin~ the action of a centrif~l force exerted by rotation of a rotor. Ihis de~ice includes no provision for separating non-liquid ccmponents frGm liquid mixtures.
U.S. Patent 4,S57,600 issued on December 10, 1985, discloses a process and device for the centrifugal control and mixing of limited volum2s of fluid, especially in the rotor of a centrifugal analyæer.
The device includes at least one baffle chamber, in a flcw canal for the fluid the volume of which is greater than the volume of fluid. The baffle is shaped such that when the device is rotated at a sufficiently high first speed of rotation, the fluid remaLns in the chamber. Upon . - . .. : .: .: .. .. :. ~
~3~ ~32137~ ~
rotation of the rotor at a second lower speed of rotation, the fluid flows out of the baffle chamber as a result of a boundary surface force. Again, this device includes no means for separating non-liquid components of a liquid mixture.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a rotor which can provide sample preparation and place~ent. More particularly, the device must be able to accept a liquid mixture in a capîllary tube, spin it down to separate non-liquid components from liquid components, draw a known volu~e of the liquid component and mix it with a known volume of a diluent, draw a known volume of the diluted liquid ccmponent, and place the known volume of diluted liquid component on an analysis test pad.
SUMM~RY OF THE INVENTIO~
~he present invention relates to a rotor assemhly useful in processing and diluting liquid nixtures for analysis which cc~prises a rotor bo~y rotatable about an axis of rotation; a separation chamber housed in the rotor body for sepaxatin~ a liquid component from a non-liquid camponent; a mLxing chamber housed in the rotor bcdy for mixing a liquid material with a ~;luent; a diluent chamber housed in the rotor kody for holding a volume of a diluent; a diluent addition port in the rotor body and m fluid connection with the diluent chamber for introduction of a diluent to the diluent chamber; a sa~ple introduction chamber ho~sed in the rotor body and in fluid connection with ~he separation chamber for intrcduction of a ~ample to ~he separation chamber; a dilu~ed sample retainer associated with the rotor body for .; ~ ' ' ~ ! . ' ~32~ 371 retaining a diluted liquid sample; movable means housed in the rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from the separation chamber to the mixing chamber;
movable means housed in the rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a diluent from the diluent chamber to the mixing chamber; and movable means housed in the rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from the mixing chamber to the diluted sample retainer.
The present invention also relates to a method for processing liquids which comprises providing a rotor body rotatable about an axis of rotation having a separation chamber, a mixing chamber, and a diluent chamber; introducing a liquid sample and a liquid diluent to separate locations in the rotor body; rotating the rotor body to transfer the liquid diluent to the diluent chamber, !~
to transfer the liquid sample to the separation chamber and to separate at least one non-liquid component of the liquid sample from at least one liquid component of the liquid sample; stopping the rotation of the rotor body; transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of the diluent to the mixing chamber, transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of the liquid component of the liquid sample to the mixing chamber; and rotating the rotor body to mix the diluent with the liquid componen-t of the liquid sample.
Accordingly, it is the primary object of the present invention to provide a device that will automatlcally deliver a specific aliquot of a specifically diluted liquid component of a liquid material to an analysis pad or cuvette.
Ç3 ,, ., ,. : .
.
5- 132~37~
It is also an object of this invention to pr~vide a blocd sample pr~cessor that will separate the blood serum from the blood cells, draw a specific aliquot of the blood serum, dilute the aliquot of the blood serum with a specific amount of diluent, draw a specific aliquot of the diluted blood serum, and deliver the aliquot of diluted serum to an analytical test pad or other analysis devi oe.
m ese and other objects of the present invention will be apparent from the detailed description to follow.
ERIEF DESCRIPqlON OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a plan view of the rotor of the present invention with the top plate removed and in the sample introduction position.
Fig. 2 is a plan view of the rotor of the present invention with the top plate removed and in the liquid mixing position.
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional elevation view along line 3-3 of Fig. 2 ~ ;
of one embodlment of the means for transferring the diluted liquid sample frcm the muxing chamber to a sample reta~ner.
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional elevation view sImilar to Fig. 3 ~howing a ~second em~odLment of the m~ans for transferring the diluted s~ple from the ~uxing chamber to a sample retainer.
Fig. 5 is a cross-section31 elevation view similar to Fig. 3 showing a third alternative embodlment of the means for transferring the diluted liquid sample from the mixlng chamber to a sample retainer.
~ .
-6- ~32137~
DETAILED_DESCRIPq~lON OF THE PRETERRED EMEODIMENTS
In Fig. 1, there .is shown a rotor body 10 which can rotate about an axis of rotation R. Rotor body 10 is illustrated in a highly simplified nanner and includes a top plate lOa (removed for clarity), a main body 10b, and a bottom plate 10c. The main body 10b includes a separation ~
chamber 11, a mLxing chamber 12, and a diluent chamber 13 housed ~ -therein. Fluidly connected to the diluent chamber 13 by a diluent channel 14 is a diluent addition port 15. Fluidly connected to the sep~ration chamber 11 by a sample channel 16 is a sample addition port 17. Housed in the sample addition port 17 is a capillary tube holder 18 into which sample tube 19 is inserted by snap-in engagement. Housed in the mlxing chamber 12 is a mountin~ device 20 which is capable of holding three capillary tubes 21, 22 and 23. Capillary tubes 21 and 23 are shcwn in their sample introduction position. Capillary tubes 21 and 23 are pi~otally mounted on mounting device 2Q such that they may be rotated into fluid engagement with muxiny chamber 12 as shown in Fig.
2. Also depicted in Fig. 1 is groove 24' in which mounting means 20 is slidably located by means of a sliding m~mber 26, and a sample retainer 25.
Referring nc~ to Fig. 2, there is shawn rotor kcdy 10 with capillary tukes 21, 22 and 23 in the muxing position. Shcwn in phantom are capillary tubes 21, 22, and 23 in position to transfer the diluted sample to sample retainer 25.
ReferrLng now to Fig. 3, there is shcwn a cross-sectional elevation view of the rotor bcdy 10 along line 3-3 of Fig. 2. Ihe capillary tube :
, i ,,, ~. . . .
~7~ ~3~3 ~
22 is shown in position to transfer the sample to sample retainer 25.
In phantom is shown capillary tube 22 in the mixing position wherein it is in fluid connecti~n with the muxing ~ er 12. Also shown in Fig. 3 is sliding member 26 which slides in a slot 36 defined by guides 24 in top plate lOa. Sliding m~mber 26 is suitably connected to m~unting means 20. Attached to sliding member 26 and extendLng above top plate lOa is a handle 27. m e bottom of mount.Lng me~ber 20 is attached to a se~ond sliding m2mber 28 which rides in groove 24' defined by rails 29 m maLn body lOb.
1~ Referring now to ~ig. 4, thexe is shown an alternate embodinent for the means for transferring a diluted sample fro~ the mi~cLn~ chamber 12 to sample retainer 25. In this enbodiment the mount mg m~mber 20 is pivotally mounted on a pivotal mount 30 and the main body lOb includes an add.itional retainer chamker 31 into ~hich the sample retainer 25 is remcvably inserted. Ihe capillary tube 22 is pivoted frcm the mlxing chamber 12 to the retainer chamber 31 using ~he plVOtal ~cunt 30.
Additionally, ~here is provided an opening 32 such that the pro~imal end of the capillary tube 22 clears the main body lOb as the capillary tube 22 is pivoted.
Referring now to Fig. 5, there is ~hcwn a third alternative embodiment of the means for transferring a diluted sample from the ~ixin~ chamber 1~ to a sample retainer 25". This en~xxl ment includes an additional openm g 33 into which the capillary tube 22 is inserted by a 90 degree rotation of the mounting m~ans 20. The mounting ~ans 20 is caused to rotate 90 degrees by the action of the gnoave 24 on the . .
-8- ~321~7~
sliding member 28. The groove 24' defLned by the rail 29 ends at point 34 an~ does not allow the slid mg member 28 to prcgress any further in that direction. Hence, the mounting member 20 is caused to rotate 90 degrees sinae the sliding member 26 continues to progress in the slot 36 defined by the guides 24. Also shown is the sample retainer 25 which, in this embcdim~nt, is plaaed outside the rotor body 10, and a blcwer 35.
m e apparatus as shown in Fig. 1 has the capillary tubes 19, 21, 22 and 23 in the sample introduction position. Capillary tubes 19, 21, 22 and 23 are all removably insertable into the apparatus. Moreover, capillary tNbes 21 and 23 are pivotally mounted to mounting l~3ans 20 such that they may rotated from a first position wherein they are in fluid connection with the separation chamber 11 and diluent chamber 13 respectively, to a second position wherein they are both fluidly aonnected to the mixin~ chamber 12.
Capillary tukes 19, 21, 22 and 23 are all re~Nably mounted in the rotor body 10. Capillary tubes 21, 22 and 23 snap into mounting means 20 by application of a ~mall amount of pressure. Capillary tube 19 also snaps into position in the aapillary tube holder 18. All of these capillary tubes are selected to hold a predetermined amount of liquid.
This selection allows precise metering of sample, diluent and diluted s~mple quantities. In addition, the use of capillary tubes prc~ides a sLmple, autcmatic method of withdrawLng liquids frc3m the diluent, separation and mixing chambers since capillary action will draw liquid into the capillary tubes without the application of additional forces.
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m is makes the device particularly useful in zero gravity conditions where manual liquid handling is extremely difficult. Iiquid handling is greatly simplified since precise aliquots of liquid can be withdrawn by merely placing a capillary tube of predetermined size in fluid connection with the liquid. Moreover, this particular method of liquid handling minimizes human involvement and training necessary to prepare liquids for analysis. This, in turn, eliminates many of the difficulties associated with manual sample handling and prepaxation.
For instance, the liquids cannot be spilled and the possibility of contamunation is reduced. This automatic method is also faster an~ more efficient than manual liquid processing.
Presently, the primary use of this device is for processing blood samples into mRasured, microliter volumes of plasma and diluting these samples for subsequent analysis. In blood sample processing, it is necessary to separate the cells from the serum using a rotor. The present device is also capable of processing blood samples in~o microliter volumes of plasma and transferring them to a mix mg chamber for muxing with a reagent and subsequent analysis. The processing is autcmatic and does not require human intervertion. The device is also useful for automation of a wide variet~r of analytical methods requiring sample processing, dilution, transfer, muxing and analysis. The device may be widely used in all phases of testing where it is desirable to analyze ~iluted or undiluted samples in a rotor or some ex*ernal device.
The device is most useful when it is necessar~r to separate at least one non-liquid component from at least one liquid ccmponent present in i~ .
--1~
132~ 37~
the san~le. Ihe devioe is capable of pr~s~ m~st liqLlids. Ihe diluent ~ay be ary of ~e diluent~; ~ to tho~ of ~rdina~y s~cill in ~he art. Also, the diluent may be a ~agent ad~ed 1:o react with the 1~ ~;e the a~aratl~s, capillary tl~be 19, ccQl~inir~g a li~d material ~ as bl~d, is snaE~ped ints~ n~unting mean~; 18.
Capillary t~ibe 19 is c~sidered the sa~le t~be sinoe its function is to int~duoe a liquid sanple to the ~E~?ara~bus. ~ *y capill~ ~bes 21, 22 and 23 are attac~ed ts~ ~tir~ ~ans 20 so that capillary t~e 21 is po6itiQn~ in fluid c~nr~tio~ with separatio~ ch~ 11 arxl capillary tube 23 is positio~ed ~n fl~id ~cin with di nt ch~
13, as ~hawn in Fig. 1. N~xt, a liquid diluent is intr~uced to t~e d;luerlt a~;tion port 15. me r~tor body 10 ~ then r~tated abalt axis R to ~fer the sample frar[ the capillary b~e 19 thr~ ~le cha~ 16 to se~aration ~ 11. ~t the same time, the diluer~t is transferred fr~m the diluent addition port 15 thr~ the dilue~t ~
c~ 14 to the diluent s~ 13 }:~y the ce~trii~3al forca gen~ted by ~tic~n of the ~tor b~y 10.
q~e ~tation of the rc~tor body 10 cor~tirru~ ~til the liquid arx~ :
non-liquid oc~po~s of the syle are ~t~d fr~n eacll other ir separation ctlan~r 11. The se~tion ~oc~ as a result o~ ~he oentrifugal force generatçd by r~tation of the r~or bo~ 10. At ~is point, the r~tation of the rotor bcx3y 10 ceases and the liquid c~nponent of the sarrple in the ~eparatio~ ~ha~ 11 i5 dra~l U~) ~ capillary tl~be 21 whic~h is in fluid corn~ection~~erewith. --At ~he s~ne ~ime, the liquid .
~ 32~ 37~
diluent in the diluent chamber 13 is drawn up by the capillary tube 23 which is in fluid connection therewith. Each of the capillary tl~X~s 21 and 23 are selected to contain a predetermined volume of liquid. In this manner, the volume of the liquid component of sample, as well as the volume of diluent, is precisely controlled~
The next step in the processing is the pivotal movement of capillary tubes 21 ~ d 23 into the mixing position as shown in Fig. 2. m e pivotin~ of capillary tubes 21 and 23 is accomplished by pivoting the -portion of the mounting means 20 to which the capillary tubes 21 and 23 are secured. To facilitate this pivoting, the capillary tubes 21, 22 and 23 are all slidable within the mounting means 20 su~h that they may be moved radially inh~3x~1y or radially outwardly with respect to the mounting means 20. It will normally be necessary to slide capillary tN~X~s 21 and 23 radially inwardly to rotate them fr~m their first position to their second position so that the capillary tubes 21 and 23 will clear the walls between the muxing cha~ber and the separation and diluent chambers.
In the mixing position, the capillary tub~s 21 and 23 are fluidly connected with the muxing chamber 12. The rotor body 10 is then rotated again to thereby discharge the diluent from the diluent capillary tube 23 into the muxing chamber 12, and to discharge the liquld ccmponent of the sample from the capillary tube 21 into the muxLng chamker 12.
Continued rotation of the rotor body lO results in a thorough mixing of the diluent with the liquid ccmponent of the sample m the radially outermost portion of the muxing ~hamber 120 Once sufficient mixing of i~ ~
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the liquid ccmponent of the sample with the diluent has occurred, the rotation of the rotor body 10 is stopped. The diluted sample capillary tube 22 which is fluidly connected to the radially o~termost portion of the muxing cha~ber 12 then draws up a predetermlned volume of diluted sample from the nux mg chamber 12.
Once the diluted sample capillary tube 22 has filled wlth diluted sample, it is desirable to transfer the diluted sample to some means for retain m g the sample so that it can analyzed. One way of transferring the sample to a ~sample retainer 25 for later analysis, is through the use of the apparatus as shown in Fig. 3. In Fig. 3 diluted sample capillary tube 22 is shown, in phant~m, in the mixing position where it is in fluid contact with q chamber 12. m e diluted sample capillary tube 22 is also shown in a second, sample transfer position wherein it is fluldly connected to the sample retainer 25. m e sample ~etainer 25 may be a cuvet~e, sample pad or other suitable apparatus.
In this embcdiment, the mounting neans 20 is slidably mounted in the rotor body 10 by both top sliding member 26 which is slidably engaged in the slot 36 defined by guides 24 in top plate 10a, and lower sliding m~mber 28 which is disposed in the grccve 24' defined by rails 29 in main kody 10b. Hence, mounting means 20 is capable of sliding fram the position shown in phantcm in Fig. 3 to the second position shcwn in solid lines in Fig. 3. Once the diluted sample capillary tube 22 is in the second position, the rotor bcdy 10 is rotated to discharge the diluted s~mple from the diluted sample capillary tube 22 into the sample retainer 25.
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Another m~ans for transferring the diluted sample from the muxm g chamher 12 to a removably mounted sample retainer 25 is shown in Fig.
4. In this apFaratus, the mounting means 20 is pivotally mounted on the pivotal mount 30 such that the capillary tube 22 can be pivoted from fluid engagement with the mixing chamber 12 to fluid engagement with the :
retainer chamber 31. Clearance for the capillary tube 22 is provided by opening 32 in the main hody lOb. Once the diluted sample capill~ry tube 22 has drawn up the diluted sample frcm the mixing chamber 12, the capillary tube 22 is pivoted upward with respect to the main body lOb, into fluid engagen~nt with the retainer chamber 31. Capillary action acts to retain the diluted sample m the diluted sample capillary tube 22 when it is pivoted upward. Once the diluted sample capillary tube 22 is fluidly connected with the retainer chamber 31, the rotor body 10 is rotated to discharge the diluted sample fram the diluted sample capillary tube 22 to the sample re~ainer 25' where the diluted sample is maintained by gravity.
A~other alternate embodim3nt for transferring the diluted sample fr~m the muxing chamber 12 to the sample retainer 25" is shown in Fig.
5. m e ~mounting n~ans 20 is capable of being pivoted 90 degrees to position the diluted sample capillary tube 22 perpenlicular to the plane of the rotor body lOo The pivoting motion is caused by a stopper (not shGwn~ at point 34 in the groove defined by rail 29. This stopper prevents further longitudinal movement of the sliding m~mber 28 and thereby causes a 90 degree rotation of the mo,unting means 20 since sliding member 26 co~tinues to progress now pivotally into slot 36.
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132~7 ~
Once the capillary tube 22 is perpendicular to the plane of the rotor body 10, a blcwer 35 is turned on to blow the diluted sample out of the capillary tube 22 into sample retainer 25" located below the ~otor bcdy 10. Opening 33 allows enough clearance for the capillary tube 22 to rotate 90 degr~es within the ro~or body 10.
Another embodlment of the present invention provides for a rotor of the continuous fast analyzing type wherein the mlxLng chamber 12 also serves as an analysis chamker for analysis of the fluid sample. In this embcliment, the diluted sample capillary tube 22 is omitted from the lo device and the same procedure is followed until the diluent and sa~ple are muxed in the mixing chamber 12. Once the mlxing i5 complete, analysis is perform2d in the rotor body 10 through the use of optical analysis ~eans known to those of ordinary skill .in the art, without removing the diluted sample from the mlxing chamber 12.
It will be appreciated that the instant specification and examples are set for~h by way of illustration and not limitation and that various difications and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be defined by the claims which follcw.
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Referring nc~ to Fig. 2, there is shawn rotor kcdy 10 with capillary tukes 21, 22 and 23 in the muxing position. Shcwn in phantom are capillary tubes 21, 22, and 23 in position to transfer the diluted sample to sample retainer 25.
ReferrLng now to Fig. 3, there is shcwn a cross-sectional elevation view of the rotor bcdy 10 along line 3-3 of Fig. 2. Ihe capillary tube :
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~7~ ~3~3 ~
22 is shown in position to transfer the sample to sample retainer 25.
In phantom is shown capillary tube 22 in the mixing position wherein it is in fluid connecti~n with the muxing ~ er 12. Also shown in Fig. 3 is sliding member 26 which slides in a slot 36 defined by guides 24 in top plate lOa. Sliding m~mber 26 is suitably connected to m~unting means 20. Attached to sliding member 26 and extendLng above top plate lOa is a handle 27. m e bottom of mount.Lng me~ber 20 is attached to a se~ond sliding m2mber 28 which rides in groove 24' defined by rails 29 m maLn body lOb.
1~ Referring now to ~ig. 4, thexe is shown an alternate embodinent for the means for transferring a diluted sample fro~ the mi~cLn~ chamber 12 to sample retainer 25. In this enbodiment the mount mg m~mber 20 is pivotally mounted on a pivotal mount 30 and the main body lOb includes an add.itional retainer chamker 31 into ~hich the sample retainer 25 is remcvably inserted. Ihe capillary tube 22 is pivoted frcm the mlxing chamber 12 to the retainer chamber 31 using ~he plVOtal ~cunt 30.
Additionally, ~here is provided an opening 32 such that the pro~imal end of the capillary tube 22 clears the main body lOb as the capillary tube 22 is pivoted.
Referring now to Fig. 5, there is ~hcwn a third alternative embodiment of the means for transferring a diluted sample from the ~ixin~ chamber 1~ to a sample retainer 25". This en~xxl ment includes an additional openm g 33 into which the capillary tube 22 is inserted by a 90 degree rotation of the mounting m~ans 20. The mounting ~ans 20 is caused to rotate 90 degrees by the action of the gnoave 24 on the . .
-8- ~321~7~
sliding member 28. The groove 24' defLned by the rail 29 ends at point 34 an~ does not allow the slid mg member 28 to prcgress any further in that direction. Hence, the mounting member 20 is caused to rotate 90 degrees sinae the sliding member 26 continues to progress in the slot 36 defined by the guides 24. Also shown is the sample retainer 25 which, in this embcdim~nt, is plaaed outside the rotor body 10, and a blcwer 35.
m e apparatus as shown in Fig. 1 has the capillary tubes 19, 21, 22 and 23 in the sample introduction position. Capillary tubes 19, 21, 22 and 23 are all removably insertable into the apparatus. Moreover, capillary tNbes 21 and 23 are pivotally mounted to mounting l~3ans 20 such that they may rotated from a first position wherein they are in fluid connection with the separation chamber 11 and diluent chamber 13 respectively, to a second position wherein they are both fluidly aonnected to the mixin~ chamber 12.
Capillary tukes 19, 21, 22 and 23 are all re~Nably mounted in the rotor body 10. Capillary tubes 21, 22 and 23 snap into mounting means 20 by application of a ~mall amount of pressure. Capillary tube 19 also snaps into position in the aapillary tube holder 18. All of these capillary tubes are selected to hold a predetermined amount of liquid.
This selection allows precise metering of sample, diluent and diluted s~mple quantities. In addition, the use of capillary tubes prc~ides a sLmple, autcmatic method of withdrawLng liquids frc3m the diluent, separation and mixing chambers since capillary action will draw liquid into the capillary tubes without the application of additional forces.
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~ 32137~
m is makes the device particularly useful in zero gravity conditions where manual liquid handling is extremely difficult. Iiquid handling is greatly simplified since precise aliquots of liquid can be withdrawn by merely placing a capillary tube of predetermined size in fluid connection with the liquid. Moreover, this particular method of liquid handling minimizes human involvement and training necessary to prepare liquids for analysis. This, in turn, eliminates many of the difficulties associated with manual sample handling and prepaxation.
For instance, the liquids cannot be spilled and the possibility of contamunation is reduced. This automatic method is also faster an~ more efficient than manual liquid processing.
Presently, the primary use of this device is for processing blood samples into mRasured, microliter volumes of plasma and diluting these samples for subsequent analysis. In blood sample processing, it is necessary to separate the cells from the serum using a rotor. The present device is also capable of processing blood samples in~o microliter volumes of plasma and transferring them to a mix mg chamber for muxing with a reagent and subsequent analysis. The processing is autcmatic and does not require human intervertion. The device is also useful for automation of a wide variet~r of analytical methods requiring sample processing, dilution, transfer, muxing and analysis. The device may be widely used in all phases of testing where it is desirable to analyze ~iluted or undiluted samples in a rotor or some ex*ernal device.
The device is most useful when it is necessar~r to separate at least one non-liquid component from at least one liquid ccmponent present in i~ .
--1~
132~ 37~
the san~le. Ihe devioe is capable of pr~s~ m~st liqLlids. Ihe diluent ~ay be ary of ~e diluent~; ~ to tho~ of ~rdina~y s~cill in ~he art. Also, the diluent may be a ~agent ad~ed 1:o react with the 1~ ~;e the a~aratl~s, capillary tl~be 19, ccQl~inir~g a li~d material ~ as bl~d, is snaE~ped ints~ n~unting mean~; 18.
Capillary t~ibe 19 is c~sidered the sa~le t~be sinoe its function is to int~duoe a liquid sanple to the ~E~?ara~bus. ~ *y capill~ ~bes 21, 22 and 23 are attac~ed ts~ ~tir~ ~ans 20 so that capillary t~e 21 is po6itiQn~ in fluid c~nr~tio~ with separatio~ ch~ 11 arxl capillary tube 23 is positio~ed ~n fl~id ~cin with di nt ch~
13, as ~hawn in Fig. 1. N~xt, a liquid diluent is intr~uced to t~e d;luerlt a~;tion port 15. me r~tor body 10 ~ then r~tated abalt axis R to ~fer the sample frar[ the capillary b~e 19 thr~ ~le cha~ 16 to se~aration ~ 11. ~t the same time, the diluer~t is transferred fr~m the diluent addition port 15 thr~ the dilue~t ~
c~ 14 to the diluent s~ 13 }:~y the ce~trii~3al forca gen~ted by ~tic~n of the ~tor b~y 10.
q~e ~tation of the rc~tor body 10 cor~tirru~ ~til the liquid arx~ :
non-liquid oc~po~s of the syle are ~t~d fr~n eacll other ir separation ctlan~r 11. The se~tion ~oc~ as a result o~ ~he oentrifugal force generatçd by r~tation of the r~or bo~ 10. At ~is point, the r~tation of the rotor bcx3y 10 ceases and the liquid c~nponent of the sarrple in the ~eparatio~ ~ha~ 11 i5 dra~l U~) ~ capillary tl~be 21 whic~h is in fluid corn~ection~~erewith. --At ~he s~ne ~ime, the liquid .
~ 32~ 37~
diluent in the diluent chamber 13 is drawn up by the capillary tube 23 which is in fluid connection therewith. Each of the capillary tl~X~s 21 and 23 are selected to contain a predetermined volume of liquid. In this manner, the volume of the liquid component of sample, as well as the volume of diluent, is precisely controlled~
The next step in the processing is the pivotal movement of capillary tubes 21 ~ d 23 into the mixing position as shown in Fig. 2. m e pivotin~ of capillary tubes 21 and 23 is accomplished by pivoting the -portion of the mounting means 20 to which the capillary tubes 21 and 23 are secured. To facilitate this pivoting, the capillary tubes 21, 22 and 23 are all slidable within the mounting means 20 su~h that they may be moved radially inh~3x~1y or radially outwardly with respect to the mounting means 20. It will normally be necessary to slide capillary tN~X~s 21 and 23 radially inwardly to rotate them fr~m their first position to their second position so that the capillary tubes 21 and 23 will clear the walls between the muxing cha~ber and the separation and diluent chambers.
In the mixing position, the capillary tub~s 21 and 23 are fluidly connected with the muxing chamber 12. The rotor body 10 is then rotated again to thereby discharge the diluent from the diluent capillary tube 23 into the muxing chamber 12, and to discharge the liquld ccmponent of the sample from the capillary tube 21 into the muxLng chamker 12.
Continued rotation of the rotor body lO results in a thorough mixing of the diluent with the liquid ccmponent of the sample m the radially outermost portion of the muxing ~hamber 120 Once sufficient mixing of i~ ~
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the liquid ccmponent of the sample with the diluent has occurred, the rotation of the rotor body 10 is stopped. The diluted sample capillary tube 22 which is fluidly connected to the radially o~termost portion of the muxing cha~ber 12 then draws up a predetermlned volume of diluted sample from the nux mg chamber 12.
Once the diluted sample capillary tube 22 has filled wlth diluted sample, it is desirable to transfer the diluted sample to some means for retain m g the sample so that it can analyzed. One way of transferring the sample to a ~sample retainer 25 for later analysis, is through the use of the apparatus as shown in Fig. 3. In Fig. 3 diluted sample capillary tube 22 is shown, in phant~m, in the mixing position where it is in fluid contact with q chamber 12. m e diluted sample capillary tube 22 is also shown in a second, sample transfer position wherein it is fluldly connected to the sample retainer 25. m e sample ~etainer 25 may be a cuvet~e, sample pad or other suitable apparatus.
In this embcdiment, the mounting neans 20 is slidably mounted in the rotor body 10 by both top sliding member 26 which is slidably engaged in the slot 36 defined by guides 24 in top plate 10a, and lower sliding m~mber 28 which is disposed in the grccve 24' defined by rails 29 in main kody 10b. Hence, mounting means 20 is capable of sliding fram the position shown in phantcm in Fig. 3 to the second position shcwn in solid lines in Fig. 3. Once the diluted sample capillary tube 22 is in the second position, the rotor bcdy 10 is rotated to discharge the diluted s~mple from the diluted sample capillary tube 22 into the sample retainer 25.
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Another m~ans for transferring the diluted sample from the muxm g chamher 12 to a removably mounted sample retainer 25 is shown in Fig.
4. In this apFaratus, the mounting means 20 is pivotally mounted on the pivotal mount 30 such that the capillary tube 22 can be pivoted from fluid engagement with the mixing chamber 12 to fluid engagement with the :
retainer chamber 31. Clearance for the capillary tube 22 is provided by opening 32 in the main hody lOb. Once the diluted sample capill~ry tube 22 has drawn up the diluted sample frcm the mixing chamber 12, the capillary tube 22 is pivoted upward with respect to the main body lOb, into fluid engagen~nt with the retainer chamber 31. Capillary action acts to retain the diluted sample m the diluted sample capillary tube 22 when it is pivoted upward. Once the diluted sample capillary tube 22 is fluidly connected with the retainer chamber 31, the rotor body 10 is rotated to discharge the diluted sample fram the diluted sample capillary tube 22 to the sample re~ainer 25' where the diluted sample is maintained by gravity.
A~other alternate embodim3nt for transferring the diluted sample fr~m the muxing chamber 12 to the sample retainer 25" is shown in Fig.
5. m e ~mounting n~ans 20 is capable of being pivoted 90 degrees to position the diluted sample capillary tube 22 perpenlicular to the plane of the rotor body lOo The pivoting motion is caused by a stopper (not shGwn~ at point 34 in the groove defined by rail 29. This stopper prevents further longitudinal movement of the sliding m~mber 28 and thereby causes a 90 degree rotation of the mo,unting means 20 since sliding member 26 co~tinues to progress now pivotally into slot 36.
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132~7 ~
Once the capillary tube 22 is perpendicular to the plane of the rotor body 10, a blcwer 35 is turned on to blow the diluted sample out of the capillary tube 22 into sample retainer 25" located below the ~otor bcdy 10. Opening 33 allows enough clearance for the capillary tube 22 to rotate 90 degr~es within the ro~or body 10.
Another embodlment of the present invention provides for a rotor of the continuous fast analyzing type wherein the mlxLng chamber 12 also serves as an analysis chamker for analysis of the fluid sample. In this embcliment, the diluted sample capillary tube 22 is omitted from the lo device and the same procedure is followed until the diluent and sa~ple are muxed in the mixing chamber 12. Once the mlxing i5 complete, analysis is perform2d in the rotor body 10 through the use of optical analysis ~eans known to those of ordinary skill .in the art, without removing the diluted sample from the mlxing chamber 12.
It will be appreciated that the instant specification and examples are set for~h by way of illustration and not limitation and that various difications and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be defined by the claims which follcw.
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Claims (15)
1. A rotor assembly useful in processing and diluting liquid mixtures for analysis comprising:
a rotor body rotatable about an axis of rotation;
a separation chamber housed in said rotor body for separating a liquid component from a non-liquid component;
a mixing chamber housed in said rotor body for mixing a liquid material with a diluent;
a diluent chamber housed in said rotor body for holding a volume of a diluent;
a diluent addition port in said rotor body in fluid connection with said diluent chamber for introduction of a diluent to said diluent chamber;
a sample introduction chamber housed in said rotor body in fluid connection with said separation chamber for introduction of a sample to said separation chamber;
a diluted sample retainer associated with said rotor body for retaining a diluted liquid sample;
movable means housed in said rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from said separation chamber to said mixing chamber;
movable means housed in said rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a diluent from said diluent chamber to said mixing chamber; and movable means housed in said rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from said mixing chamber to said diluted sample retainer.
a rotor body rotatable about an axis of rotation;
a separation chamber housed in said rotor body for separating a liquid component from a non-liquid component;
a mixing chamber housed in said rotor body for mixing a liquid material with a diluent;
a diluent chamber housed in said rotor body for holding a volume of a diluent;
a diluent addition port in said rotor body in fluid connection with said diluent chamber for introduction of a diluent to said diluent chamber;
a sample introduction chamber housed in said rotor body in fluid connection with said separation chamber for introduction of a sample to said separation chamber;
a diluted sample retainer associated with said rotor body for retaining a diluted liquid sample;
movable means housed in said rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from said separation chamber to said mixing chamber;
movable means housed in said rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a diluent from said diluent chamber to said mixing chamber; and movable means housed in said rotor body for transferring a predetermined amount of a liquid material from said mixing chamber to said diluted sample retainer.
2. An apparatus in accordance with Claim 1 wherein said diluent addition port and said diluent chamber are oriented such that said diluent is transferred from said diluent addition port to said diluent chamber and wherein said sample introduction chamber and said separation chamber are oriented such that said sample is transferred from said sample introduction chamber to said separation chamber, simultaneously by rotation of said rotor body.
3. An apparatus in accordance with Claim 1 wherein said means for transferring a diluent from said diluent chamber to said mixing chamber comprises:
a pivotally mounted diluent capillary tube having a distal end disposed facing substantially radially outward from the center of said rotor body and a mounting means for mounting said diluent capillary tube for movement from a first position wherein said distal end of said diluent capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said diluent chamber to a second position wherein said distal end of said diluent capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said mixing chamber.
a pivotally mounted diluent capillary tube having a distal end disposed facing substantially radially outward from the center of said rotor body and a mounting means for mounting said diluent capillary tube for movement from a first position wherein said distal end of said diluent capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said diluent chamber to a second position wherein said distal end of said diluent capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said mixing chamber.
4. An apparatus in accordance with Claim 3 wherein said means for transferring a liquid material from said separation chamber to said mixing chamber comprises:
a pivotally mounted sample capillary tube having a distal end disposed facing substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and a second mounting means for mounting said sample capillary tube for movement from a first position wherein said distal end of said sample capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said separation chamber to a second position wherein said distal end of said sample capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said mixing chamber.
a pivotally mounted sample capillary tube having a distal end disposed facing substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and a second mounting means for mounting said sample capillary tube for movement from a first position wherein said distal end of said sample capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said separation chamber to a second position wherein said distal end of said sample capillary tube is disposed in fluid connection with said mixing chamber.
5. An apparatus in accordance with Claim 4 wherein said means for transferring a liquid material from said mixing chamber to said diluted sample retainer comprises:
a capillary tube having first and second ends; and a means for slidably mounting said capillary tube for movement from a first position to a second position such that said first end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said mixing chamber when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said first position, and said second end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said diluted sample retainer when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said second position.
a capillary tube having first and second ends; and a means for slidably mounting said capillary tube for movement from a first position to a second position such that said first end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said mixing chamber when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said first position, and said second end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said diluted sample retainer when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said second position.
6. An apparatus m accordance with Claim 4 wherein said means for transferring a liquid material from said mixing chamber to said diluted sample retainer comprises:
a slidably mounted capillary tube having first and second ends and a third mounting means for mounting said capillary tube for movement from a first position to a second position wherein said first end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said mixing chamber when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said first position;
a fourth means for pivotally mounting said slidably mounted capillary tube for movement out of the plane of said rotor body when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said second position; and means for discharging a liquid material from said slidably mounted capillary tube to said diluted sample retainer when said capillary tube is in the second position.
a slidably mounted capillary tube having first and second ends and a third mounting means for mounting said capillary tube for movement from a first position to a second position wherein said first end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said mixing chamber when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said first position;
a fourth means for pivotally mounting said slidably mounted capillary tube for movement out of the plane of said rotor body when said slidably mounted capillary tube is in said second position; and means for discharging a liquid material from said slidably mounted capillary tube to said diluted sample retainer when said capillary tube is in the second position.
7. An apparatus in accordance with Claim 6 wherein said means for discharging comprises:
a means for applying air pressure to one end of said slidably mounted capillary tube.
a means for applying air pressure to one end of said slidably mounted capillary tube.
8. An apparatus in accordance with Claim 4 wherein said means for transferring a liquid material from said mixing chamber to said diluted sample retainer comprises:
a pivotally mounted diluted sample capillary tube having a distal end and a third mounting means for mounting said diluted sample capillary tube for movement from a first position wherein said distal end of said diluted sample capillary tube is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said mixing chamber to a second position wherein said distal end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the axis of rotation of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said diluted sample retainer.
a pivotally mounted diluted sample capillary tube having a distal end and a third mounting means for mounting said diluted sample capillary tube for movement from a first position wherein said distal end of said diluted sample capillary tube is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the center of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said mixing chamber to a second position wherein said distal end is disposed substantially radially outwardly from the axis of rotation of said rotor body and in fluid connection with said diluted sample retainer.
9. A method of processing liquids comprising:
providing a rotor body rotatable about an axis of rotation, having a separation chamber, a mixing chamber, and a diluent chamber;
introducing a liquid sample and a liquid diluent to separate locations in said rotor body;
rotating said rotor body to transfer said liquid diluent to said diluent chamber, to transfer said liquid sample to said separation chamber and to separate at least one non-liquid component of said liquid sample from at least one liquid component of said liquid sample;
stopping the rotation of said rotor body;
transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of said diluent to said mixing chamber;
transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of said liquid component of said liquid sample to said mixing chamber; and rotating said rotor body to mix said diluent with said liquid component of said liquid sample.
providing a rotor body rotatable about an axis of rotation, having a separation chamber, a mixing chamber, and a diluent chamber;
introducing a liquid sample and a liquid diluent to separate locations in said rotor body;
rotating said rotor body to transfer said liquid diluent to said diluent chamber, to transfer said liquid sample to said separation chamber and to separate at least one non-liquid component of said liquid sample from at least one liquid component of said liquid sample;
stopping the rotation of said rotor body;
transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of said diluent to said mixing chamber;
transferring via movable means housed in said rotor a predetermined amount of said liquid component of said liquid sample to said mixing chamber; and rotating said rotor body to mix said diluent with said liquid component of said liquid sample.
10. A method in accordance with Claim 9 wherein said step of transferring a predetermined amount of said diluent to said mixing chamber comprises:
providing a pivotally mounted capillary tube of predetermined size in fluid connection with said mixing chamber such that upon stopping said rotor said diluted sample fills said capillary tube;
pivoting said capillary tube into fluid connection with said mixing chamber; and subsequently rotating said rotor such that the contents of said capillary tube is discharged into said mixing chamber.
providing a pivotally mounted capillary tube of predetermined size in fluid connection with said mixing chamber such that upon stopping said rotor said diluted sample fills said capillary tube;
pivoting said capillary tube into fluid connection with said mixing chamber; and subsequently rotating said rotor such that the contents of said capillary tube is discharged into said mixing chamber.
11. A method in accordance with Claim 9 wherein said step of transferring a predetermined amount of said liquid component of said liquid sample to said mixing chamber comprises:
providing a pivotally mounted capillary tube of predetermined size in fluid connection with said separation chamber such that upon stopping said rotor said diluted sample fills said capillary tube;
pivoting said capillary tube into fluid connection with said mixing chamber; and subsequently rotating said rotor such that the contents of said capillary tube is discharged into said mixing chamber.
providing a pivotally mounted capillary tube of predetermined size in fluid connection with said separation chamber such that upon stopping said rotor said diluted sample fills said capillary tube;
pivoting said capillary tube into fluid connection with said mixing chamber; and subsequently rotating said rotor such that the contents of said capillary tube is discharged into said mixing chamber.
12. A method in accordance with Claim 9 further comprising the steps of:
providing a sample retaining means;
stopping the rotation of said rotor body after said mixing step; and moving via movable means housed in said rotor said diluted sample from said mixing chamber to said sample retaining means.
providing a sample retaining means;
stopping the rotation of said rotor body after said mixing step; and moving via movable means housed in said rotor said diluted sample from said mixing chamber to said sample retaining means.
13. A method in accordance with Claim 12 wherein said step of moving said diluted sample to a sample retaining means comprises:
providing a capillary tube m fluid connection with said mixing chamber such that upon stopping said rotor said diluted sample flows into said capillary tube;
moving said capillary tube into fluid connection with said sample retaining means; and discharging the contents of said capillary tube into said retaining means.
providing a capillary tube m fluid connection with said mixing chamber such that upon stopping said rotor said diluted sample flows into said capillary tube;
moving said capillary tube into fluid connection with said sample retaining means; and discharging the contents of said capillary tube into said retaining means.
14. A method in accordance with Claim 9 further comprising the steps of:
providing a means for analyzing; and analyzing said diluted sample using said means for analyzing.
providing a means for analyzing; and analyzing said diluted sample using said means for analyzing.
15. A method in accordance with Claim 14 further comprising the steps of:
stopping the rotation of said rotor body after said mixing step; and automatically transferring said diluted sample to a means for analyzing said diluted sample.
stopping the rotation of said rotor body after said mixing step; and automatically transferring said diluted sample to a means for analyzing said diluted sample.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/074,739 US4835106A (en) | 1987-07-17 | 1987-07-17 | Rotor for processing liquids using movable capillary tubes |
| US074,739 | 1987-07-17 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1321374C true CA1321374C (en) | 1993-08-17 |
Family
ID=22121399
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000572232A Expired - Fee Related CA1321374C (en) | 1987-07-17 | 1988-07-15 | Rotor for processing liquids using movable capillary tubes |
Country Status (7)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US4835106A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0371054B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH0624649B2 (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE110593T1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1321374C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3851331T2 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1989000458A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (13)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5173262A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1992-12-22 | Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc. | Rotor assembly and method for automatically processing liquids |
| US5242803A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1993-09-07 | Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc. | Rotor assembly and assay method |
| US4999304A (en) * | 1987-12-28 | 1991-03-12 | Miles Inc. | Dynamic braking centrifuge |
| US5061381A (en) * | 1990-06-04 | 1991-10-29 | Abaxis, Inc. | Apparatus and method for separating cells from biological fluids |
| US5789259A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-08-04 | Robert A. Levine | Method and apparatus for mixing samples in a capillary tube |
| US5916814A (en) * | 1996-10-09 | 1999-06-29 | Drummond Scientific Company | Presealed integral hematocrit test assembly and method |
| EP1493014A2 (en) | 2001-04-11 | 2005-01-05 | Burstein Technologies, Inc. | Multi-parameter assays including analysis discs and methods relating thereto |
| US20040226348A1 (en) * | 2001-07-24 | 2004-11-18 | Phillip Bruce | Magnetic assisted detection of magnetic beads using optical disc drives |
| CN1625779A (en) * | 2002-01-28 | 2005-06-08 | 长冈实业株式会社 | Methods and apparatus for logical triggering |
| WO2003064998A2 (en) | 2002-01-31 | 2003-08-07 | Burstein Technologies, Inc. | Method for triggering through disc grooves and related optical analysis discs and system |
| WO2006077695A1 (en) * | 2005-01-24 | 2006-07-27 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Liquid delivery device and liquid delivery method |
| DE102012205511A1 (en) * | 2012-04-04 | 2013-10-10 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Revolver component for a reagent vessel |
| DE102013220064B3 (en) * | 2013-10-02 | 2014-12-24 | Hahn-Schickard-Gesellschaft für angewandte Forschung e.V. | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MOVING A SOLID PHASE IN A MULTIPLE OF CHAMBERS |
Family Cites Families (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3901658A (en) * | 1974-07-30 | 1975-08-26 | Us Energy | Whole blood analysis rotor assembly having removable cellular sedimentation bowl |
| FR2409514A1 (en) * | 1977-11-17 | 1979-06-15 | Bretaudiere Jean Pierre | DEVELOPMENT OF CENTRIFUGATION ANALYSIS EQUIPMENT |
| DE3044385A1 (en) * | 1980-11-25 | 1982-06-24 | Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh, 6800 Mannheim | METHOD FOR CARRYING OUT ANALYTICAL PROVISIONS AND ROTOR INSERT ELEMENT SUITABLE FOR THIS |
| FR2496268A1 (en) * | 1980-12-15 | 1982-06-18 | Guigan Jean | AUTONOMOUS SIMULTANEOUS ANALYSIS DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING SAME |
| JPS5990594U (en) * | 1982-12-06 | 1984-06-19 | フアナツク株式会社 | industrial robot hand |
| DE3425008A1 (en) * | 1984-07-06 | 1986-02-06 | Boehringer Mannheim Gmbh, 6800 Mannheim | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT ANALYTICAL PROVISIONS |
| FR2572533B1 (en) * | 1984-10-26 | 1986-12-26 | Guigan Jean | METHOD FOR CARRYING OUT THE MEDICAL ANALYSIS OF A LIQUID SAMPLE USING AT LEAST ONE LIQUID REAGENT AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT THE METHOD |
| FR2575293B1 (en) * | 1984-12-21 | 1987-03-20 | Inovelf Sa | DYNAMIC PIPETTING ROTOR FOR CENTRIFUGAL ANALYSIS DEVICE |
| FR2579755B1 (en) * | 1985-03-26 | 1988-04-15 | Guigan Jean | PROCESS FOR PERFORMING MEDICAL ANALYSIS OF A LIQUID SAMPLE USING DRY REAGENTS, AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT THE METHOD |
| US4740472A (en) * | 1985-08-05 | 1988-04-26 | The United States Of America As Represented By The United States Department Of Energy | Method and apparatus for automated processing and aliquoting of whole blood samples for analysis in a centrifugal fast analyzer |
| US4696666A (en) * | 1986-07-18 | 1987-09-29 | Rice Jr Richard D | Centrifuge machine and rotor |
-
1987
- 1987-07-17 US US07/074,739 patent/US4835106A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1988
- 1988-07-12 WO PCT/US1988/002333 patent/WO1989000458A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 1988-07-12 AT AT88906564T patent/ATE110593T1/en active
- 1988-07-12 DE DE3851331T patent/DE3851331T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1988-07-12 JP JP63506287A patent/JPH0624649B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1988-07-12 EP EP88906564A patent/EP0371054B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1988-07-15 CA CA000572232A patent/CA1321374C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| ATE110593T1 (en) | 1994-09-15 |
| DE3851331D1 (en) | 1994-10-06 |
| JPH0624649B2 (en) | 1994-04-06 |
| DE3851331T2 (en) | 1994-12-15 |
| EP0371054B1 (en) | 1994-08-31 |
| EP0371054A1 (en) | 1990-06-06 |
| EP0371054A4 (en) | 1990-12-05 |
| US4835106A (en) | 1989-05-30 |
| JPH03502659A (en) | 1991-06-20 |
| WO1989000458A1 (en) | 1989-01-26 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| MKLA | Lapsed |