Patent ID: 7852479
Filing Date: 2010-12-14
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for pumping a fluid sample containing multi-cellular organisms from a sample reservoir through a fluorescence-measuring device to a waste container without passing the organisms through a pump, the apparatus comprising: a sample reservoir containing the sample; apparatus for selectively applying a pressure differential between the sample reservoir and the waste container using gravity by raising the fluid level in the sample reservoir to a first level, the first level higher than the fluid level in the waste container; a first outlet for connecting the sample reservoir to a fluorescence measuring device; a waste container; and a second outlet for connecting the fluorescence measuring device to the waste container; wherein when the pressure differential is applied, a portion of the sample flows from the sample reservoir, through the first outlet, through the fluorescence measuring device, and through the second outlet to the waste container; and wherein the portion of the sample does not pass through a pump.