CA1336140C - Reciprocating transfer mechanism - Google Patents
Reciprocating transfer mechanismInfo
- Publication number
- CA1336140C CA1336140C CA000606811A CA606811A CA1336140C CA 1336140 C CA1336140 C CA 1336140C CA 000606811 A CA000606811 A CA 000606811A CA 606811 A CA606811 A CA 606811A CA 1336140 C CA1336140 C CA 1336140C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- support surface
- test element
- blade
- moving
- support
- 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
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 25
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 25
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 71
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000007373 indentation Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000008280 blood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000004369 blood Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001704 evaporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008020 evaporation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000013610 patient sample Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N35/00—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor
- G01N35/00029—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor provided with flat sample substrates, e.g. slides
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N35/00—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor
- G01N35/00029—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor provided with flat sample substrates, e.g. slides
- G01N2035/00039—Transport arrangements specific to flat sample substrates, e.g. pusher blade
- G01N2035/00049—Transport arrangements specific to flat sample substrates, e.g. pusher blade for loading/unloading a carousel
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N35/00—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor
- G01N35/00584—Control arrangements for automatic analysers
- G01N35/00722—Communications; Identification
- G01N35/00732—Identification of carriers, materials or components in automatic analysers
- G01N2035/00742—Type of codes
- G01N2035/00752—Type of codes bar codes
-
- 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
- Y10T436/112499—Automated chemical analysis with sample on test slide
Abstract
There is disclosed a simplified transfer mechanism that minimizes both the number of moving parts needed, and the shapes of those parts. An L-shaped pusher blade is mounted to move in and out of a first station such as at an incubator so as to be effective to move a test element from the first station to two or more subsequent stations.
Description
RECIPROCATING TRANSFER MECHANISM
FIELD OF '1~ I~V~N110N
The invention relates to a transfer mechanism useful in moving test elements to a plurality of locations, particularly in an analyzer.
BAC~GROUND OF TH~ IN~N110N
A pusher blade such as is used in a transfer mechanism of a blood analyzer normally has an edge or portion thereof that engages test elements to push them from location A to location B. As such, a single blade has limited capability for moving such an element. The result is that if the test element has to be moved to yet other locations, locations C
and/or D, some other mechanism or moving agent besides that pusher blade, must be employed.
Examples of such a construction are shown in U.S.
Patent No. 4,244,032, Figure 5, and in ~.S. Patent NO. 4,302,420. U.S. Patent No. 4,269,803 teaches a shuttle block 52 used to carry a test element from its position at station 20, left there by pusher blade 31, through more than 2 stations. That is, shuttle 52 has two pivoted, engaging surfaces or fingers 60 at the front and rear of the shuttle that project through support 25. Using the rear finger, the shuttle i8 able to take a test element from a "first" position at station 20, Figure 3a, to a "second" position at station 27, Figure 3b. When shuttle 50 is reciprocated back, and then forward again, the other, forward finger then pushes that same test element to a "third" location which is the eject station adjacent bin 66, Figure 3c.
Thus, the aforesaid shuttle 50 comprises a moving element able to move test elements to more than two locations. However, for every location beyond two, it requires an extra upwardly projecting pivoted finger. Such a construction renders the -2- 1 336 1 ~0 shuttle block considerably more complicated than a simple pusher blade, and thus more expensive to manufacture. Furthermore, it is a well-established principle that the more complicated a mechani~m becomes, the more li~ely it is that something will go wrong with it.
Therefore, there has been a need prior to this invention, to provide a less expensive form of moving element which nevertheless will move a test element through three and even four stations or locations, without necessitating the use of some other moving part.
There is an additional need to provide apparatus that is useful in environments having less than the Earth's gravity. For example, space stations have a need for blood analyzers that can operate in zero gravity.
SY~ARY OF T~E INV~:NL10N
We have constructed a transfer mechanism that solves the problems noted above - it provides movement of a test element from a first station to a second and third station, and even a fourth station, without the complexities required by prior art constructions.
More specifically, there is provided, in one aspect of the invention, a transfer mechanism for moving a test element from a first location to other locations. The transfer mechanism comprises a first support surface providing the first location, a pusher blade under the first support surface, having a leading portion and a rear portion, means for moving the blade from a location in which it is directly under the first support surface to one in which it is no longer under the support surface, an upwardly extending finger integrally extending from the rear portion of the pusher blade, the first 1 336~ 40 support surface having a slot to accommodate the finger, a pushing surface at the leading portion of the pusher blade, and a support surface on the blade between the leading and rear portion, constructed to receive and support a test element.
In accord with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a biological liquid analyzer comprising means for incubating a test element containing a patient liquid, the incubating means including a test element support surface at a first location, means for processing an incubated test element, and a transfer mechanism for moving a - test element from the first location to the processing means. The analyzer is improved in that the transfer mechanism includes a pu~her blade under the first support surface, having a leading portion and a rear portion, means for moving the blade from a location in which it is directly under the first support surface to one in which it is no longer under the support surface, an upwardly extending finger integrally extending from the rear portion of the pusher blade, the first support surface having a slot to accommodate the finger, a pushing surface at the leading portion of the pusher blade, and a support surface on the blade between the leading and rear portion, constructed to receive and support a test element.
In accord with yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of moving a test element through more than two separate locations using a single moving element, the first of the locations being located on a first stationary support surface and the moving element being movably located under the support surface with means to guide it out from underneath the support surface with a clearance less than the thickness of a test element. The -4- 1 336 1 ~0 method comprises the steps of a) disposing a test element into the first location on the support surface; b) positioning the moving element while underneath the support surface 80 that a rear portion of the moving element projects through the support surface into contact with a rear edge of a test - element; c) moving the moving element out from underneath the support surface until the projecting portion pushes the contacted test element off the support surfaCe into a second location on the moving element; and d) retracting the moving element underneath the support surface until the support surface pushes a test element carried by the moving element, off of it into a third location on a second support surface in front of the moving element.
Accordingly, it is an advantageous feature of the invention that a simplified pusher blade transfer mechanism is provided for an analyzer, that can transfer a test element between three and even four stations.
It is a related advantageous feature of the invention that such a transfer mechanism is capable of such results, and still be in the form of a simple integral L-~haped blade.
Another related advantageous feature of the invention is the reduction in cost achieved by such a device.
Other advantageous features will become apparent upon reference to the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, when read in light of the attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 i~ a partially broken away, partially schematic plan view of an analyzer constructed in accordance with the invention;
-5- l 3361 ~0 Figure 2 is a fragmentary, enlarged plan view similar to that of Figure 1, illustrating greater detail;
Figure 3 is a fragmentary section view taken generally along the line III-III of Figure 2;
Figure 4 is an isometric view of a preferred pusher blade used in the invention;
Figures 5A-5D are fragmentary elevational views partly in section, taken generally through the plane of arrow 46 in Figure 3, and illustrating a preferred practice of the invention.
DES~RIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The invention is described hereinafter with respect to the preferred embodiment that is a complete analyzer that uses dried test elements, and particularly one that can be used in zero-G
environments with a suitable incubator. In addition, it is useful in any device, analyzer or not, needing a transfer mechanism to move test elements through three or four stations, whether or not those stations include an incubator or process dried elements or liquid cuvettes, and whether or not gravity equals zero or something else.
Orientations such as "up", "down" or "vertical" refer to those as shown in the drawings, and are arbitrary if applied to use in a zero-G
environment.
Referring to Figure 1, an analyzer 20 constructed in accord with the invention comprises a sample-dispensing station 22, an incubator 30, means 24 for transferring test element E containing patient sample from station 22 into the incubator, a potentiometric read station 70 disposed adjacent to one side of incubator 30, a colorimetric read station 100 also disposed adjacent to the incubator and displaced circumferentially from read station 70, a 1 33~
container 80 to receive used test elements, and a guide 90 to direct such used test elements from read station 100 to container 80. Most preferably, transfer means 24 is a pusher blade activated and guided in a conventional manner by motors, etc., not shown, moved over a support surface such as surface 26.
Considering first the other parts of the analyzer, any suitable liquid dispensing means (not shown) is useful at station 22. Such station 22 can also include suitable structure (not shown) that restricts test element E to movement generally in contact with surface 26, particularly when used in a zero-G environment.
As is described in Canadian Serial No.
610,540 entitled n Incubator And Analyzer with Improved Cap Raising Means", incubator 30 features a stationary upper cover plate 29. Either or both of these plates are heated in a conventional manner, with sensors, not shown, to provide feedback to control the incubator temperature as desired. Mounted between plates 28 and 29, Figures 2 and 3, is a rotor 32 providing individual test-element holding stations formed as pockets in the rotor. More specifically, indentations 34 are formed in rotor 32, as is also shown in Figure 1, and hold-down leaf springs 35 are attached along the periphery of each indentation. The indentations are shaped and sized to hold a test element E therein, and springs 35 are shaped to press a test element against lower support plate 28, Figures 2 and 3. Preferably, springs 34 are dual springs that extend over the top of rotor 32, with a pair of fingers 36, 38 adjacent each indentation 34. Additionally, an ~c _7_ l 3361 ~
evaporation cap 42 is provided, Figures 2 and 3, that is attached via a leaf spring 44 to rotor 32 to permit limited vertical movement, Figure 3, arrow 46, of cap 42. Spring 44 is attached at 48 to rotor 32 and presses on cap 42. A rod 54 preferably rises out of cap 42, with a cam follower pin 56 that functions as described below.
To raise cap 42 when rotor 32 moves an indentation 34 adjacent plate 28 to a location to receive a test element, a cam 58 is provided, shown in phantom in Figure 2. Cam 58 comprises a bridge element 62 fixed to the analyzer and a ramp 64, Figures 2 and 3. The shape of ramp 64 is constructed to cam pin 56 upward, and thus raise cap 42, as shown by arrow 66, Figure 3.
Regarding potentiometric read station 70, Figure 1, such station is conventional, and featureæ
a pair of electrodes 72 that raises and lowers into contact with appropriate parts of ion selective electrode (ISE) test elements held by rotor 32. That station is not activated until an ISE test element is positioned thereunder, ready for reading, as controlled by a suitable microprocessor, not shown.
(Detection of which kind of test element is at which indentation 34 is done using a bar code reader at station 22, not shown.) With respect to container 80, any suitable container can be used to collect used test elements.
Preferably guide 90 is such as to keep such test elements constrained as they are pushed into the container, as described hereinafter, particularly if the analyzer is used in zero gravity environments.
Station 100 is the station that incorporates at least the colorimetric read station, and most importantly, it is the location of an important part of the transfer mechanism. In addition, part of that mechanism is present at station A, Figure 1, in the incubator 30.
In accord with this invention, the transfer mechanism that moves a test element from the incubator station A, to two or three subsequent stations, such as read station 100, features a pusher - blade 110 that is movably mounted for reciprocation below lower support plate 28, Figures 3-5. Such blade preferably comprises a flat body 112, Figure 4, having a leading portion 114 at one end, a rear portion 116 at the opposite end, a test element support surface 118 between the leading and rear portions, and a pushing finger 120 rising vertically from rear portion 116. All these features form a simple integral piece with no moving parts. Leading portion 114 further includes a pushing surface 122, and the leading vertical surface 124 of finger 120 i8 also a pushing surface, as will become apparent.
Pusher blade 110, and its driving means integrally attached thereto, discussed below, comprise the only moving part(s) of this transfer mechanism. The rest of the transfer mechanism comprises, Figures 3 and 5A-5D, the lower support plate 28 of incubator 30, which provides a first support surface for test elements E at the location of station A, and a stationary lower support surface 130 on which pusher blade 110 rests and over which it reciprocates, as described hereinafter. Such surface 130 provides additional test element locations at station C and D.
Reciprocation of pusher blade 110 is preferably provided by an ear 132 extending below body 112, to which is attached a driver such as a piston rod 134, Figures 3 and 5A-5D. That rod in turn is connected to moving means such as a piston cylinder 136, Figures 5A-5D. Alternatively, any _9- 1 3361 40 other suitable driving mechanism can be used in place of the hydraulic rod 132 and piston 136.
Because pusher blade 110 includes two portions that extend out of the plane of body 112, that is, finger 120 and ear 132, an appropriate slot 140 and groove 150 are formed in lower support plate 28 of incubator 30, and in support surface 130. An additional groove 152 is preferably provided in rotor 32 to allow finger 120 to remain within the incubator while rotor 32 rotates above it, Figures 5A and 5C.
The use of this transfer mechanism will be apparent from the above description. Referring particularly to Figures 5A-5D, the process is as follows:
The first of the three or four test element locations involved in the transfer i8 the location at station A, inside incubator 30, Figure 5A, when the test element rests on the surface of plate 28. At this location, finger 120 is behind element E, 80 that when moving means 134 and 136 are activated, finger 120 and blade 110 move out from underneath support plate 28, pushing test element E off (arrow 160) the surface of plate 28 and onto support surface 118 at station B, Figure 5B.
Next, blade 110 is retracted back to its position underneath support plate 28, Figure 5C.
Because at this point the undersurface of plate 28 is spaced just above surface 118 of blade 110, Figure 3, to provide room only to allow blade 110 to retract and not al~o test element E, that element i8 pushed off of blade 110, arrow 170, Figure 5C, onto support surface 130, at station C. Station C is different from station B in that it is at least at a level below station B. In addition, as shown, it is moved closer to incubator 30 since it i8 the outer edge 172 of the lower incubator support plate 28 that pushes 1 33 6 1 ~0 off the test element. (Alternatively, not shown, additional structure can be provided to push off the test element before it is retracted to a position adjacent the incubator, 80 that station C is directly below station B, if desired.) While the test element is at station C, additional processing is optionally - done on the test element, for example, washing with a wash liquid from a pipette "P". Also while element E
is at station C, rotor 32 of incubator 30 is preferably further advanced 80 as to bring a second test element E' into station A.
Optionally, and preferably if the invention is used in zero-G environments, a fixed member (not shown) is positioned just above station B, Figure SB, to keep elements at station B from moving away from surface 118. Such a member is also effective in aiding the retention of elements at station C from unwanted movement away from surface 130. For example, a leaf spring (not shown) can be mounted to apply a force F, Figure SB, on element E as it comes out of station A, to force it down onto blade 110 or surface 130, Figure 5C.
Thereafter, when pusher blade 110 is moved out from under support 28, Figure 5D, it acts to do two things: it pushes element E' off support plate 28 and onto its surface 118, as occurred previously with element E. In addition, and simultaneously, blade 110 acts to move element E from station C
(Figure 5C) to station D. The latter occurs by reason of pushing surface 122 pushing element E
forward.
Station D can be any subsequent processing station. Most preferably, it is the read station 100 for elements E and E', and therefore comprises a light source 180 of conventional construction, and an aperture 182 allowing a beam 184 to scan element E.
1 33 6 1 ~0 Reflected light is collected at an angle different from the angle of beam 184 and sent via lenses to a photodetector (not shown). Optionally, a cover 186 is brought down (arrow 188) onto element E at station D.
Depending on the length of blade 110, an - element E that has been read at station D, can be moved onto guide means 90 by reason of the next element E' pushing it out of station D, when that element E' is advanced to station D, as shown; or that element E can be moved out by the blade itself if it is long enough (not shown).
The invention has been described in detail with particular reference to preferred embodiments thereof, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention.
FIELD OF '1~ I~V~N110N
The invention relates to a transfer mechanism useful in moving test elements to a plurality of locations, particularly in an analyzer.
BAC~GROUND OF TH~ IN~N110N
A pusher blade such as is used in a transfer mechanism of a blood analyzer normally has an edge or portion thereof that engages test elements to push them from location A to location B. As such, a single blade has limited capability for moving such an element. The result is that if the test element has to be moved to yet other locations, locations C
and/or D, some other mechanism or moving agent besides that pusher blade, must be employed.
Examples of such a construction are shown in U.S.
Patent No. 4,244,032, Figure 5, and in ~.S. Patent NO. 4,302,420. U.S. Patent No. 4,269,803 teaches a shuttle block 52 used to carry a test element from its position at station 20, left there by pusher blade 31, through more than 2 stations. That is, shuttle 52 has two pivoted, engaging surfaces or fingers 60 at the front and rear of the shuttle that project through support 25. Using the rear finger, the shuttle i8 able to take a test element from a "first" position at station 20, Figure 3a, to a "second" position at station 27, Figure 3b. When shuttle 50 is reciprocated back, and then forward again, the other, forward finger then pushes that same test element to a "third" location which is the eject station adjacent bin 66, Figure 3c.
Thus, the aforesaid shuttle 50 comprises a moving element able to move test elements to more than two locations. However, for every location beyond two, it requires an extra upwardly projecting pivoted finger. Such a construction renders the -2- 1 336 1 ~0 shuttle block considerably more complicated than a simple pusher blade, and thus more expensive to manufacture. Furthermore, it is a well-established principle that the more complicated a mechani~m becomes, the more li~ely it is that something will go wrong with it.
Therefore, there has been a need prior to this invention, to provide a less expensive form of moving element which nevertheless will move a test element through three and even four stations or locations, without necessitating the use of some other moving part.
There is an additional need to provide apparatus that is useful in environments having less than the Earth's gravity. For example, space stations have a need for blood analyzers that can operate in zero gravity.
SY~ARY OF T~E INV~:NL10N
We have constructed a transfer mechanism that solves the problems noted above - it provides movement of a test element from a first station to a second and third station, and even a fourth station, without the complexities required by prior art constructions.
More specifically, there is provided, in one aspect of the invention, a transfer mechanism for moving a test element from a first location to other locations. The transfer mechanism comprises a first support surface providing the first location, a pusher blade under the first support surface, having a leading portion and a rear portion, means for moving the blade from a location in which it is directly under the first support surface to one in which it is no longer under the support surface, an upwardly extending finger integrally extending from the rear portion of the pusher blade, the first 1 336~ 40 support surface having a slot to accommodate the finger, a pushing surface at the leading portion of the pusher blade, and a support surface on the blade between the leading and rear portion, constructed to receive and support a test element.
In accord with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a biological liquid analyzer comprising means for incubating a test element containing a patient liquid, the incubating means including a test element support surface at a first location, means for processing an incubated test element, and a transfer mechanism for moving a - test element from the first location to the processing means. The analyzer is improved in that the transfer mechanism includes a pu~her blade under the first support surface, having a leading portion and a rear portion, means for moving the blade from a location in which it is directly under the first support surface to one in which it is no longer under the support surface, an upwardly extending finger integrally extending from the rear portion of the pusher blade, the first support surface having a slot to accommodate the finger, a pushing surface at the leading portion of the pusher blade, and a support surface on the blade between the leading and rear portion, constructed to receive and support a test element.
In accord with yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of moving a test element through more than two separate locations using a single moving element, the first of the locations being located on a first stationary support surface and the moving element being movably located under the support surface with means to guide it out from underneath the support surface with a clearance less than the thickness of a test element. The -4- 1 336 1 ~0 method comprises the steps of a) disposing a test element into the first location on the support surface; b) positioning the moving element while underneath the support surface 80 that a rear portion of the moving element projects through the support surface into contact with a rear edge of a test - element; c) moving the moving element out from underneath the support surface until the projecting portion pushes the contacted test element off the support surfaCe into a second location on the moving element; and d) retracting the moving element underneath the support surface until the support surface pushes a test element carried by the moving element, off of it into a third location on a second support surface in front of the moving element.
Accordingly, it is an advantageous feature of the invention that a simplified pusher blade transfer mechanism is provided for an analyzer, that can transfer a test element between three and even four stations.
It is a related advantageous feature of the invention that such a transfer mechanism is capable of such results, and still be in the form of a simple integral L-~haped blade.
Another related advantageous feature of the invention is the reduction in cost achieved by such a device.
Other advantageous features will become apparent upon reference to the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, when read in light of the attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 i~ a partially broken away, partially schematic plan view of an analyzer constructed in accordance with the invention;
-5- l 3361 ~0 Figure 2 is a fragmentary, enlarged plan view similar to that of Figure 1, illustrating greater detail;
Figure 3 is a fragmentary section view taken generally along the line III-III of Figure 2;
Figure 4 is an isometric view of a preferred pusher blade used in the invention;
Figures 5A-5D are fragmentary elevational views partly in section, taken generally through the plane of arrow 46 in Figure 3, and illustrating a preferred practice of the invention.
DES~RIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The invention is described hereinafter with respect to the preferred embodiment that is a complete analyzer that uses dried test elements, and particularly one that can be used in zero-G
environments with a suitable incubator. In addition, it is useful in any device, analyzer or not, needing a transfer mechanism to move test elements through three or four stations, whether or not those stations include an incubator or process dried elements or liquid cuvettes, and whether or not gravity equals zero or something else.
Orientations such as "up", "down" or "vertical" refer to those as shown in the drawings, and are arbitrary if applied to use in a zero-G
environment.
Referring to Figure 1, an analyzer 20 constructed in accord with the invention comprises a sample-dispensing station 22, an incubator 30, means 24 for transferring test element E containing patient sample from station 22 into the incubator, a potentiometric read station 70 disposed adjacent to one side of incubator 30, a colorimetric read station 100 also disposed adjacent to the incubator and displaced circumferentially from read station 70, a 1 33~
container 80 to receive used test elements, and a guide 90 to direct such used test elements from read station 100 to container 80. Most preferably, transfer means 24 is a pusher blade activated and guided in a conventional manner by motors, etc., not shown, moved over a support surface such as surface 26.
Considering first the other parts of the analyzer, any suitable liquid dispensing means (not shown) is useful at station 22. Such station 22 can also include suitable structure (not shown) that restricts test element E to movement generally in contact with surface 26, particularly when used in a zero-G environment.
As is described in Canadian Serial No.
610,540 entitled n Incubator And Analyzer with Improved Cap Raising Means", incubator 30 features a stationary upper cover plate 29. Either or both of these plates are heated in a conventional manner, with sensors, not shown, to provide feedback to control the incubator temperature as desired. Mounted between plates 28 and 29, Figures 2 and 3, is a rotor 32 providing individual test-element holding stations formed as pockets in the rotor. More specifically, indentations 34 are formed in rotor 32, as is also shown in Figure 1, and hold-down leaf springs 35 are attached along the periphery of each indentation. The indentations are shaped and sized to hold a test element E therein, and springs 35 are shaped to press a test element against lower support plate 28, Figures 2 and 3. Preferably, springs 34 are dual springs that extend over the top of rotor 32, with a pair of fingers 36, 38 adjacent each indentation 34. Additionally, an ~c _7_ l 3361 ~
evaporation cap 42 is provided, Figures 2 and 3, that is attached via a leaf spring 44 to rotor 32 to permit limited vertical movement, Figure 3, arrow 46, of cap 42. Spring 44 is attached at 48 to rotor 32 and presses on cap 42. A rod 54 preferably rises out of cap 42, with a cam follower pin 56 that functions as described below.
To raise cap 42 when rotor 32 moves an indentation 34 adjacent plate 28 to a location to receive a test element, a cam 58 is provided, shown in phantom in Figure 2. Cam 58 comprises a bridge element 62 fixed to the analyzer and a ramp 64, Figures 2 and 3. The shape of ramp 64 is constructed to cam pin 56 upward, and thus raise cap 42, as shown by arrow 66, Figure 3.
Regarding potentiometric read station 70, Figure 1, such station is conventional, and featureæ
a pair of electrodes 72 that raises and lowers into contact with appropriate parts of ion selective electrode (ISE) test elements held by rotor 32. That station is not activated until an ISE test element is positioned thereunder, ready for reading, as controlled by a suitable microprocessor, not shown.
(Detection of which kind of test element is at which indentation 34 is done using a bar code reader at station 22, not shown.) With respect to container 80, any suitable container can be used to collect used test elements.
Preferably guide 90 is such as to keep such test elements constrained as they are pushed into the container, as described hereinafter, particularly if the analyzer is used in zero gravity environments.
Station 100 is the station that incorporates at least the colorimetric read station, and most importantly, it is the location of an important part of the transfer mechanism. In addition, part of that mechanism is present at station A, Figure 1, in the incubator 30.
In accord with this invention, the transfer mechanism that moves a test element from the incubator station A, to two or three subsequent stations, such as read station 100, features a pusher - blade 110 that is movably mounted for reciprocation below lower support plate 28, Figures 3-5. Such blade preferably comprises a flat body 112, Figure 4, having a leading portion 114 at one end, a rear portion 116 at the opposite end, a test element support surface 118 between the leading and rear portions, and a pushing finger 120 rising vertically from rear portion 116. All these features form a simple integral piece with no moving parts. Leading portion 114 further includes a pushing surface 122, and the leading vertical surface 124 of finger 120 i8 also a pushing surface, as will become apparent.
Pusher blade 110, and its driving means integrally attached thereto, discussed below, comprise the only moving part(s) of this transfer mechanism. The rest of the transfer mechanism comprises, Figures 3 and 5A-5D, the lower support plate 28 of incubator 30, which provides a first support surface for test elements E at the location of station A, and a stationary lower support surface 130 on which pusher blade 110 rests and over which it reciprocates, as described hereinafter. Such surface 130 provides additional test element locations at station C and D.
Reciprocation of pusher blade 110 is preferably provided by an ear 132 extending below body 112, to which is attached a driver such as a piston rod 134, Figures 3 and 5A-5D. That rod in turn is connected to moving means such as a piston cylinder 136, Figures 5A-5D. Alternatively, any _9- 1 3361 40 other suitable driving mechanism can be used in place of the hydraulic rod 132 and piston 136.
Because pusher blade 110 includes two portions that extend out of the plane of body 112, that is, finger 120 and ear 132, an appropriate slot 140 and groove 150 are formed in lower support plate 28 of incubator 30, and in support surface 130. An additional groove 152 is preferably provided in rotor 32 to allow finger 120 to remain within the incubator while rotor 32 rotates above it, Figures 5A and 5C.
The use of this transfer mechanism will be apparent from the above description. Referring particularly to Figures 5A-5D, the process is as follows:
The first of the three or four test element locations involved in the transfer i8 the location at station A, inside incubator 30, Figure 5A, when the test element rests on the surface of plate 28. At this location, finger 120 is behind element E, 80 that when moving means 134 and 136 are activated, finger 120 and blade 110 move out from underneath support plate 28, pushing test element E off (arrow 160) the surface of plate 28 and onto support surface 118 at station B, Figure 5B.
Next, blade 110 is retracted back to its position underneath support plate 28, Figure 5C.
Because at this point the undersurface of plate 28 is spaced just above surface 118 of blade 110, Figure 3, to provide room only to allow blade 110 to retract and not al~o test element E, that element i8 pushed off of blade 110, arrow 170, Figure 5C, onto support surface 130, at station C. Station C is different from station B in that it is at least at a level below station B. In addition, as shown, it is moved closer to incubator 30 since it i8 the outer edge 172 of the lower incubator support plate 28 that pushes 1 33 6 1 ~0 off the test element. (Alternatively, not shown, additional structure can be provided to push off the test element before it is retracted to a position adjacent the incubator, 80 that station C is directly below station B, if desired.) While the test element is at station C, additional processing is optionally - done on the test element, for example, washing with a wash liquid from a pipette "P". Also while element E
is at station C, rotor 32 of incubator 30 is preferably further advanced 80 as to bring a second test element E' into station A.
Optionally, and preferably if the invention is used in zero-G environments, a fixed member (not shown) is positioned just above station B, Figure SB, to keep elements at station B from moving away from surface 118. Such a member is also effective in aiding the retention of elements at station C from unwanted movement away from surface 130. For example, a leaf spring (not shown) can be mounted to apply a force F, Figure SB, on element E as it comes out of station A, to force it down onto blade 110 or surface 130, Figure 5C.
Thereafter, when pusher blade 110 is moved out from under support 28, Figure 5D, it acts to do two things: it pushes element E' off support plate 28 and onto its surface 118, as occurred previously with element E. In addition, and simultaneously, blade 110 acts to move element E from station C
(Figure 5C) to station D. The latter occurs by reason of pushing surface 122 pushing element E
forward.
Station D can be any subsequent processing station. Most preferably, it is the read station 100 for elements E and E', and therefore comprises a light source 180 of conventional construction, and an aperture 182 allowing a beam 184 to scan element E.
1 33 6 1 ~0 Reflected light is collected at an angle different from the angle of beam 184 and sent via lenses to a photodetector (not shown). Optionally, a cover 186 is brought down (arrow 188) onto element E at station D.
Depending on the length of blade 110, an - element E that has been read at station D, can be moved onto guide means 90 by reason of the next element E' pushing it out of station D, when that element E' is advanced to station D, as shown; or that element E can be moved out by the blade itself if it is long enough (not shown).
The invention has been described in detail with particular reference to preferred embodiments thereof, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (9)
1. A transfer mechanism for moving a test element from a first location to other locations, comprising a first support surface providing said first location, a pusher blade under said first support surface, having a leading portion and a rear portion, means for moving said blade from a location in which it is directly under said first support surface to one in which it is no longer under said support surface, an upwardly extending finger integrally extending from said rear portion of said pusher blade, said first support surface having a slot to accommodate said finger, a pushing surface at said leading portion of said pusher blade, and a support surface on said blade between said leading and rear portion, constructed to receive and support a test element.
2. A transfer mechanism as defined in claim 1, and further including a stationary test element support surface under said blade, said blade being movably mounted to reciprocate immediately above said stationary surface.
3. A multi-leveled support for a movable test element, comprising:
a) an upper support surface having a slot extending generally through the middle thereof in the direction a test element is to move over the upper support, b) a pusher blade with an upwardly projecting finger at one end and an edge at an opposite end, said pusher blade being mounted for reciprocation immediately below said support surface with said finger projecting into and through said slot, said finger being long enough to project above said upper support, and c) a stationary lower support surface below said pusher blade, against which said pusher blade reciprocates with said pusher blade sandwiched between said upper, slotted support and said lower support.
a) an upper support surface having a slot extending generally through the middle thereof in the direction a test element is to move over the upper support, b) a pusher blade with an upwardly projecting finger at one end and an edge at an opposite end, said pusher blade being mounted for reciprocation immediately below said support surface with said finger projecting into and through said slot, said finger being long enough to project above said upper support, and c) a stationary lower support surface below said pusher blade, against which said pusher blade reciprocates with said pusher blade sandwiched between said upper, slotted support and said lower support.
4. In a biological liquid analyzer comprising means for incubating a test element containing a patient liquid, said incubating means including a test element support at a first location, means for processing an incubated test element, and a transfer mechanism for moving a test element from said first location to said processing means, the improvement wherein said transfer mechanism includes a pusher blade under said first support, having a leading portion and a rear portion, means for moving said blade from a location in which it is directly under said first support surface to one in which it is no longer under said support, an upwardly extending finger integrally extending from said rear portion of said pusher blade, said first support surface having a slot to accommodate said finger, a pushing surface at said leading portion of said pusher blade, and a support surface on said blade between said leading and rear portion, constructed to receive and support a test element.
5. An analyzer as defined in claim 4, and further including a stationary test element support surface under said blade, said blade being movably mounted to reciprocate immediately above said stationary surface.
6. An analyzer as defined in claim 5, wherein said processing means include a wash station adjacent said stationary support surface.
7. An analyzer as defined in claim 5, wherein said processing means include a read station for measuring a change in an incubated test element, and wherein said pushing surface is effective to push a test element on said stationary support surface to said read station.
8. A method of moving a test element through more than two separate locations using a single moving element, the first of said locations being located on a first stationary support surface and said moving element being movably located under said support surface with means to guide it out from underneath said support surface with a clearance less than the thickness of a test element, the method comprising the steps of a) disposing a test element into said first location on said support surface;
b) positioning said moving element while underneath said support surface so that a rear portion of the moving element projects through the support into contact with a rear edge of a test element;
c) moving said moving element out from underneath said support surface until said projecting portion pushes the contacted test element off said support surface into a second location on said moving element; and d) retracting said moving element underneath said support surface until said support surface pushes a test element carried by said moving element, off of it into a third location on a second support surface in front of said moving element.
b) positioning said moving element while underneath said support surface so that a rear portion of the moving element projects through the support into contact with a rear edge of a test element;
c) moving said moving element out from underneath said support surface until said projecting portion pushes the contacted test element off said support surface into a second location on said moving element; and d) retracting said moving element underneath said support surface until said support surface pushes a test element carried by said moving element, off of it into a third location on a second support surface in front of said moving element.
9. A method as defined in claim 8, and further including the step of:
e) repeating the movement of said moving element recited in step c) so as to push via the leading edge of said moving element, a test element from said third location to a fourth location.
e) repeating the movement of said moving element recited in step c) so as to push via the leading edge of said moving element, a test element from said third location to a fourth location.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US07/293,712 US5073342A (en) | 1989-01-05 | 1989-01-05 | Reciprocating transfer mechanism |
US293,712 | 1989-01-05 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA1336140C true CA1336140C (en) | 1995-07-04 |
Family
ID=23130233
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA000606811A Expired - Fee Related CA1336140C (en) | 1989-01-05 | 1989-07-27 | Reciprocating transfer mechanism |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US5073342A (en) |
EP (1) | EP0379272B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JPH02249971A (en) |
CA (1) | CA1336140C (en) |
DE (1) | DE69000915T2 (en) |
HK (1) | HK5694A (en) |
SG (1) | SG57893G (en) |
Families Citing this family (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CA2031912A1 (en) * | 1989-12-22 | 1991-06-23 | Robert Fred Pfost | Heated cover device |
US5196168A (en) * | 1991-12-19 | 1993-03-23 | Eastman Kodak Company | Incubator with positioning device for slide elements |
US5523056A (en) * | 1994-04-29 | 1996-06-04 | Johnson & Johnson Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. | Twin rotor incubator assembly |
US6394952B1 (en) | 1998-02-03 | 2002-05-28 | Adeza Biomedical Corporation | Point of care diagnostic systems |
US6267722B1 (en) | 1998-02-03 | 2001-07-31 | Adeza Biomedical Corporation | Point of care diagnostic systems |
USD432244S (en) * | 1998-04-20 | 2000-10-17 | Adeza Biomedical Corporation | Device for encasing an assay test strip |
USD434153S (en) * | 1998-04-20 | 2000-11-21 | Adeza Biomedical Corporation | Point of care analyte detector system |
US7312084B2 (en) * | 2001-07-13 | 2007-12-25 | Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. | Tandem incubator for clinical analyzer |
DE102004010529B4 (en) * | 2004-03-04 | 2007-09-06 | Roche Diagnostics Gmbh | Handheld analyzer |
US6994205B2 (en) * | 2004-04-20 | 2006-02-07 | Alstom Technology Ltd | Apparatus for controlling the deposition of feed material on a deposition build-up surface |
US20090112675A1 (en) * | 2007-10-31 | 2009-04-30 | Jeff Servais | Automated order fulfillment system and method |
CA2818332C (en) | 2012-06-12 | 2021-07-20 | Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc. | Lateral flow assay devices for use in clinical diagnostic apparatus and configuration of clinical diagnostic apparatus for same |
DE102013112056A1 (en) * | 2013-10-31 | 2015-04-30 | Viscom Ag | Conveying device for conveying workpieces, in particular printed circuit boards, in the conveying direction along a conveying path |
CN108883882A (en) * | 2016-03-31 | 2018-11-23 | 仓敷纺绩株式会社 | Apparatus for supplying articles |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4224032A (en) * | 1976-12-17 | 1980-09-23 | Eastman Kodak Company | Method and apparatus for chemical analysis |
US4269803A (en) * | 1979-07-02 | 1981-05-26 | Eastman Kodak Company | Slide transfer mechanism |
US4296069A (en) * | 1980-06-16 | 1981-10-20 | Eastman Kodak Company | Apparatus for processing an analysis slide |
US4302420A (en) * | 1981-01-09 | 1981-11-24 | Eastman Kodak Company | Analyzer featuring a contacting reflectometer |
JPS5821566A (en) * | 1981-07-31 | 1983-02-08 | Fuji Photo Film Co Ltd | Incubator |
US4568519A (en) * | 1983-06-29 | 1986-02-04 | Eastman Kodak Company | Apparatus for processing analysis slides |
US4629056A (en) * | 1984-06-01 | 1986-12-16 | Nabisco Brands, Inc. | Yeast cake tumbler |
US4710352A (en) * | 1985-09-20 | 1987-12-01 | Eastman Kodak Company | Simplified test element advancing mechanism having positive engagement with element |
DE3786087T2 (en) * | 1986-02-07 | 1993-09-16 | Fuji Photo Film Co Ltd | DEVICE FOR CHEMICAL ANALYSIS. |
US4867631A (en) * | 1988-04-25 | 1989-09-19 | Tegal Corporation | Spatula for wafer transport |
-
1989
- 1989-01-05 US US07/293,712 patent/US5073342A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1989-07-27 CA CA000606811A patent/CA1336140C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1990
- 1990-01-04 EP EP90300071A patent/EP0379272B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-01-04 JP JP2000034A patent/JPH02249971A/en active Pending
- 1990-01-04 DE DE9090300071T patent/DE69000915T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1993
- 1993-05-04 SG SG578/93A patent/SG57893G/en unknown
-
1994
- 1994-01-20 HK HK56/94A patent/HK5694A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP0379272A1 (en) | 1990-07-25 |
HK5694A (en) | 1994-01-28 |
EP0379272B1 (en) | 1993-02-17 |
JPH02249971A (en) | 1990-10-05 |
US5073342A (en) | 1991-12-17 |
DE69000915T2 (en) | 1993-08-26 |
SG57893G (en) | 1993-07-09 |
DE69000915D1 (en) | 1993-03-25 |
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