Devices and methods for handling and processing punches
First Claim
1. A device for processing a punch from a matrix comprising a sample of interest, wherein the device comprises:
- a. a first element comprising a dispensing tip comprising;
i. a hollow internal shaft having an external opening; and
ii. a first housing assembly structured and arranged to define a first inner reservoir communicating with the internal shaft of the dispensing tip, wherein the dimensions of the first inner reservoir are selected such that a punch inserted therein divides the first inner reservoir into two chambers, wherein;
the first chamber communicates with the internal shaft of the dispensing tip; and
the second chamber comprises a coupling opening; and
b. a second element comprising a second housing assembly structured and arranged to define;
i. a hollow interior;
ii. a coupling portion for engaging the second element to the first element; and
iii. a second coupling opening for communication through the first coupling opening of the first element, between the hollow interior of the second element and the first inner reservoir, wherein the dimensions of the second housing assembly are selected such that, when a punch is positioned in the first inner reservoir of the first element, the rim defining the second coupling opening contributes to maintain the position of the punch within the first inner reservoir and forms a second inner reservoir within the hollow interior of the second element.
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Accused Products
Abstract
The present invention provides devices and methods for handling and processing a filter or other matrix punch comprising a sample of interest in order to prevent loss of the punch and to improve ease of handling. In one aspect, the present invention provides a device comprising a first element, which holds a punch, coupled to a second element, which contributes to holding the punch in the first element, with reservoirs above and below the punch. The devices and methods can be used manually in single-channel and multi-channel formats or can be used in an automated processor, such as a robotic processor. Kits are also provided.
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Citations
40 Claims
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1. A device for processing a punch from a matrix comprising a sample of interest, wherein the device comprises:
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a. a first element comprising a dispensing tip comprising;
i. a hollow internal shaft having an external opening; and
ii. a first housing assembly structured and arranged to define a first inner reservoir communicating with the internal shaft of the dispensing tip, wherein the dimensions of the first inner reservoir are selected such that a punch inserted therein divides the first inner reservoir into two chambers, wherein;
the first chamber communicates with the internal shaft of the dispensing tip; and
the second chamber comprises a coupling opening; and
b. a second element comprising a second housing assembly structured and arranged to define;
i. a hollow interior;
ii. a coupling portion for engaging the second element to the first element; and
iii. a second coupling opening for communication through the first coupling opening of the first element, between the hollow interior of the second element and the first inner reservoir, wherein the dimensions of the second housing assembly are selected such that, when a punch is positioned in the first inner reservoir of the first element, the rim defining the second coupling opening contributes to maintain the position of the punch within the first inner reservoir and forms a second inner reservoir within the hollow interior of the second element. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40)
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Specification