초록 ▼

A method and apparatus are provided for accessing a sealed container, and in particular a sealed container which is at a pressure other than atmospheric and which generally contains blood or other bodily fluid. A piercer and a probe are provided which are mounted to an XYZ positioning mechanism and

A method and apparatus are provided for accessing a sealed container, and in particular a sealed container which is at a pressure other than atmospheric and which generally contains blood or other bodily fluid. A piercer and a probe are provided which are mounted to an XYZ positioning mechanism and are controlled such that the piercer passes through a stopper of the container, forming a cut therein through which the probe may subsequently enter the container. A foot mechanism is provided which is held against the stopper or seal for the container during piercer or probe removal for stripping purposes and through which the probe and piercer pass, the size and shape of the foot being such that, for both piercing and probing operations, it is over only a single container. The piercer and probe are operated such that the one not being used is in each instance in a raised position relative to the one being used. A novel lubrication station is provided in which the piercer is dipped prior to use to facilitate the piercing operation, to coat the cut and to minimize stopper debris. A wash station is also provided.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [1.] Apparatus for accessing fluid in a container which container is sealed by a piercable seal comprising:a piercer;a probe having a hollow tube into which said fluid is to be drawn;a first mechanism for moving both the piercer and the probe in the Z direction perpendicular to said sea

[ We claim:] [1.] Apparatus for accessing fluid in a container which container is sealed by a piercable seal comprising:a piercer;a probe having a hollow tube into which said fluid is to be drawn;a first mechanism for moving both the piercer and the probe in the Z direction perpendicular to said seal, at least one of said piercer and probe not normally being attached to move with the first mechanism, but being selectively attachable to move therewith;a second mechanism which moves the first mechanism, including the piercer and the probe in X and Y directions substantially perpendicular to the Z direction; andcontrols for operating said first and second mechanisms to have said piercer pierce the seal of a container while the probe is maintained a selected distance above the seal to withdraw the piercer from the seal, leaving a cut, and to then have the probe pass through said cut in the seal to enter said fluid while the piercer is maintained at a selected distance above the seal.