Patent ID: 6830935
Filing Date: 2004-12-14
Classification: B01F,B01L,G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for mixing and processing a sample in a specimen container having a cover and a dispersing element in the specimen container, the sample including particulate matter in a fluid, characterized in that the dispersing element is fixed relative to the cover, and the cover is rotatable relative to the specimen container, the method comprising:placing the specimen container in a receptacle on a mixer apparatus; engaging the cover for relative rotation with respect to the specimen container; activating the mixer apparatus so that the specimen container is rotated in relation to the cover, whereby the particulate matter is dispersed throughout the sample by the relatively rotating dispersing element; deactivating the mixer; drawing the sample containing dispersed particulate matter through a filter assembly located in a housing atop the cover, whereby the particulate matter is captured in a substantially uniform layer on a collection surface; opening the housing to expose the layer of particulate matter on the collection surface; and placing the exposed layer of particulate matter in contact with a microscope slide whereby the captured particulate matter is transferred from the collection site to the microscope slide.