GB1252459A - - Google Patents

Abstract

1,252,459. Automatic processing of samples and standards; mixing containers; centrifugal separators. J. M. RAIT. 30 Sept., 1968, No. 46232/68. Headings B1C, B1X and B2P. [Also in Division G2] A method of testing a sample by comparing it with a standard comprises supplying the sample and a standard to a processing apparatus which automatically processes a fresh standard for each sample processed, and comparing the processed sample with the corresponding processed standard. The apparatus comprises sample supply means which includes centrifuge bowls 2, 3; standard supply means S1, S2 etc.; means for processing the samples and standards which means may include mixing device 33, heating device 34 and dispensing outlet 35 laterally movable by a solenoid device to dispense solutions into cuvettes 16, 17 or to waste (Fig. 8 not shown); means 13' VI, 32 for putting the sample supply means into communication with the processing means; means 31, VI, 32 for putting the standard supply means into communication with the processing means; and control means automatically operable when the apparatus is actuated to centrifuge and process a sample, to process a standard for comparison, by for example selective operation of valves V1, V2 &c and pumps P to withdraw samples or standards, mix them in lines 32, 49, &c with reagents R1, R5 &c and dispense them into the cuvettes 16, 17 in a holder 18 which is subsequently manually removed and placed in well (20) in the upper portion of the apparatus (Fig. 1 not shown), whence individual cuvettes are taken for measurement. The centrifuge bowls 2, 3 may have disposable liners of e.g. plastics material and the liners may have an internal coating of de-proteinizing agent for use with blood samples. The liner of Fig. 3 (not shown) has three hollow internal integral ribs (5') which act as mixing vanes.