Patent ID: 8372353
Filing Date: 2013-02-12
Classification: B01L,G01N

Abstract:
1. A sample delivery system comprising (i) a cartridge comprising a body section, wherein the body section is adapted to hold a holder for accommodating a sealed sample vessel so as to fix a position of a seal of the sample vessel in relation to the cartridge wherein at least a seal region of the sample vessel is substantially enclosed when held within the body section of the cartridge; (ii) a holder for accommodating the sealed sample vessel, which is insertable into the body section of the cartridge, the holder being moveable with respect to the body section from a sample vessel receiving position to a closed position in which the desired position of the sample vessel in relation to the cartridge is achieved; (iii) a locking mechanism for fixing the sample vessel in the closed position; and (iv) an apparatus adapted to receive said cartridge, said apparatus being provided with an opening system for opening said sealed sample vessel contained within the cartridge; wherein in the closed position, the seal of the sample vessel is covered and is completely enclosed by the cartridge, holder or locking mechanism and is no longer accessible for removal or breach by an operator.