Patent ID: 7100460
Filing Date: 2006-09-05
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A system for obtaining a fluidic sample from a container, the container defining a volume for holding the sample, the volume closed by a seal, the system comprising: an outer tube having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end shaped to permit piercing the seal; and an inner tube having an end region axially movable within the outer tube between a piercing position, wherein an end of the inner tube in the end region is retracted from the proximal end of the outer tube, and a transmission position, wherein the end of the inner tube extends axially beyond the proximal end of the outer tube, the inner tube being resilient so as to cause the inner tube to be mechanically biased in the transmission position, such bias being normally overcome while the outer tube is used to pierce the seal; wherein the outer tube and the inner tube form a tube assembly; and wherein at least one of the tube assembly and the container can be moved to cause the outer tube to pierce the seal and, after the seal is pierced, the inner tube can be used in the transmission position to permit fluid transfer with respect to the volume.