Patent ID: 6289751
Filing Date: 2001-09-18
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A modular automated diagnostic analyzer for performing analysis tests on samples, comprising:an analysis mechanism chassis for mounting a modular, removable sensor chamber,an aspiration tube having a first section located within the analysis mechanism chassis for conducting fluids to the sensor chamber,a fluid entry module rotatably mounted to the analysis mechanism and enclosing a second section of the aspiration tube rotatably connected to the first section of the aspiration tube by a fluid and gas tight seal and having a fluid entry port for the entry of fluids to the sensor chamber whereinthe fluid entry module encloses the aspiration tube to rotate with and to slide along the aspiration tube, and includesa wiping seal mounted in the fluid entry module and slidably enclosing the aspiration tube in a region extending from the fluid entry port to move along the aspiration tube, whereinthe fluid entry module is rotatably and slidably engaged with the analysis mechanism chassis to move to a plurality of positions whereby a first position locates the aspiration tube entry port adjacent to a nipple for the introduction of calibration and cleaning fluids into the analysis apparatus and wherein others of the plurality of positions present the aspiration tube entry port for the aspiration of fluids into the analysis apparatus from a plurality of different types of sample containers, andwhereby the motion of the wiping seal with respect to the aspiration tube entry port removes a residue of the aspirated fluids from the exterior surfaces of the aspiration tube when the fluid entry module is returned to the first position, the removed residue being aspirated into the analysis apparatus for disposal,one or more modular, removable sensor modules mounted in the sensor chamber,whereby the analysis tests performed on the samples by the analysis apparatus can be selected by the selection and insertion of the one or more corresponding sensor modules into the sensor chamber, andan engagement element in the sensor chamber for selectively exerting pressure along the one or more sensor modules in the sensor chamber to force the fluid seals of the one or more sensor modules into contact and into contact with the aspiration tube so that the fluid passages of the sensor modules form a single gas and liquid tight passage through the sensor chamber, anda fluid selection valve for selecting fluids from a selected one of a plurality of fluid sources for introduction to the entry port.