초록 ▼

An apparatus for automatically separating at least one compound from a plurality of discrete liquid specimens. One embodiment utilizes sample preparation columns which are automatically fed to a column transport disc. The transport disc is preferably provided with compound bores which allow the colu

An apparatus for automatically separating at least one compound from a plurality of discrete liquid specimens. One embodiment utilizes sample preparation columns which are automatically fed to a column transport disc. The transport disc is preferably provided with compound bores which allow the columns to be easily positioned, transported past a plurality of reagent/gas dispense stations, and ejected after use. Another aspect of a preferred embodiment provides for separate dispensing of reagent and pressurized gas into the sample preparation columns. Eluate is preferably collected in containers. In order to enhance the drying of the eluate collection containers, heated gas, e.g. air, can be directed into the containers. Alternatively, the eluate containers can be heated and vented to enhance drying.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for automatically separating at least one compound from a plurality of discrete liquid specimens comprising: a plurality of sample preparation columns, each of said columns comprising an upper inlet port, a lower outlet port, and means for removing at least one compound from a fluid spe

An apparatus for automatically separating at least one compound from a plurality of discrete liquid specimens comprising: a plurality of sample preparation columns, each of said columns comprising an upper inlet port, a lower outlet port, and means for removing at least one compound from a fluid specimen disposed inside said column, each of said sample preparation columns further comprising a flange having an outer diameter and a sidewall proximately disposed below said flange, said sidewall having an exterior diameter less than said outer diameter of said flange; a plurality of specimen containers holding discrete liquid specimens wherein each specimen container holds one of said liquid specimens; a plurality of disposable specimen transfer tips for transferring discrete aliquots of specimen from said specimen containers to said sample preparation columns; means for engaging said disposable transfer tips wherein said engaging means draws specimen from a specimen container into a disposable tip, positions said disposable tip proximate one of said sample preparation columns and dispenses said specimen into said sample_preparation column; a plurality of reagent dispense stations; means for transporting said sample preparation columns to said plurality of reagent dispense stations said transporting means connected to said dispense stations and said engaging means; said transporting means comprising a support member having a plurality of compound bores, each of said compound bores comprising a support region having a first diameter smaller than said outer diameter and greater than said exterior diameter for supporting one of said sample preparation columns in a vertical orientation and a release region having a second diameter greater than said outer diameter of said flange and for allowing one of said sample preparation columns to fall through said compound bore and from said transporting means wherein said compound bores comprise means for preventing said sample preparation columns from sliding from said support region to said release region.