Precision small volume fluid processing apparatus and method
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method of mixing discrete fluid segments in a constant-diameter, straight capillary tube that has first and second open ends, comprising:
- introducing a first fluid volume into the first end of the capillary tube, so as to form a first fluid segment within the tube;
introducing a second fluid volume into the first end of the capillary tube, while simultaneously drawing a partial vacuum at the second end of the capillary tube, so as to move the first fluid segment further into the capillary tube and form a second fluid segment within the capillary tube, separated from the first fluid segment by an air gap; and
oscillating the fluid segments within the capillary tube in opposite directions and at different velocities to cause the fluid segments to mix within the capillary tube.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A high precision, small volume fluid processing system employs open ended capillary tubes to meter, aliquot and mix small volumes of sample fluid and reagents. The system has an automatic mechanism for moving the capillary tubes as well as automated sub-systems for incubating and mixing fluids within the capillary tubes.
-
Citations
10 Claims
-
1. A method of mixing discrete fluid segments in a constant-diameter, straight capillary tube that has first and second open ends, comprising:
-
introducing a first fluid volume into the first end of the capillary tube, so as to form a first fluid segment within the tube;
introducing a second fluid volume into the first end of the capillary tube, while simultaneously drawing a partial vacuum at the second end of the capillary tube, so as to move the first fluid segment further into the capillary tube and form a second fluid segment within the capillary tube, separated from the first fluid segment by an air gap; and
oscillating the fluid segments within the capillary tube in opposite directions and at different velocities to cause the fluid segments to mix within the capillary tube. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
-
Specification