Patent ID: 7544330
Filing Date: 2009-06-09
Classification: B01L

Abstract:
1. An auto-tracking assay system comprising: a plurality of sample wells; an array of indicator lights, wherein each indicator light in the array of indicator lights corresponds to an individual sample well of the plurality of sample wells; and wherein each indicator light in the array of indicator lights is configured to output a first color and a second color, wherein each indicator light in the array of indicator lights comprises a fiber optic element that is capable of transmitting both said first color and said second color, wherein the first and second colors are different, wherein the first color is associated with one or more sample wells to be loaded; and wherein the second color is associated with a sample well that has been loaded with a first sample component; a detection system for determining when a sample component has been introduced into one or more sample wells of the plurality of sample wells, wherein the detection system comprises an infrared laser and at least one infrared detector, wherein the infrared laser directs light through the individual sample wells of the plurality of wells to at least one infrared detector, and wherein a change in intensity of infrared light received by the detector between an unloaded sample well can be used to determine if a sample component has been introduced into a sample well; and a processor that receives inputs from the detection system and generates control signals for the array of indicator lights.