Patent ID: 6387328
Filing Date: 2002-05-14
Classification: G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
A disposable sampling device which connects to a separate apparatus for counting particles contained in a liquid collected into said sampling device, said device comprising:a housing having therein: a.) a sample inlet in an outer wall of said housing; b.) means for introducing a sample from a source of said liquid into said sampling device through said inlet; c.) means for metering a defined volume of said sample connected to said introducing means; d.) a cylinder formed in said housing and having a piston movable there along, said piston having actuating means for imparting movement to said piston; wherein said cylinder and piston are connected to said metering means and dose a defined volume of a diluting liquid to said metering means for diluting said defined volume of sample located in the metering means; e.) a dilution chamber connectable to said metering means; f.) valve means comprising a valve chamber and a valve body for directing said defined volume of said sample and said defined volume of said diluting liquid located in said metering means to said dilution chamber; wherein said valve body is provided in said valve chamber and said metering means are provided in said valve body; said valve body being positionable in a first position connecting said sample inlet with said metering means, and in a second position connecting said cylinder through said metering means with said dilution chamber; g.) conduit means formed within said housing interconnecting said sample inlet, said valve chamber, said cylinder and said dilution chamber; h.) a measuring conduit formed in said housing connected to said cylinder and having particle detecting means therein; and i.) signal transmitting means connecting said particle detecting means with terminal means located in an outer wall of said housing.