Patent ID: 6555060
Filing Date: 2003-04-29
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A portable diagnostic assay system for conducting a luminescent test and recording luminescent signals generated thereby on an image recording material, the system comprising:a processor including a portable, hand-held and light-tight housing having first and second openings, and a shutter mechanism within the housing and being located at an exposure station so as to be operable for operation between unblocking and blocking conditions relative to at least one exposing aperture in response to corresponding insertion and removal of a removable sample carrier from the housing; and, a fluid processing assembly in the housing for processing self-developing film units; at least one luminescent testing assembly capable of generating a luminescent activity; a sample carrier that carries the testing assembly and is insertable in and withdrawable from the second opening for operating; said sample carrier being constructed to activate the shutter mechanism to the unblocking condition when inserted into the second opening, and allow the shutter mechanism to return to the blocking condition when removed from the second opening; whereby when the shutter mechanism is in the unblocking condition a luminescent reaction conducted on the film assemblage can expose the film through the exposure aperture; and, an image recording assemblage is housed in the processor at the exposure station.