초록 ▼

The invention provides improved systems, devices, and methods for analyzing a large number of sample compounds contained in standard multiwell microtiter plates or other array structures. The multiwell plates travel along a conveyor system to a test station having a microfluidic device. At the test

The invention provides improved systems, devices, and methods for analyzing a large number of sample compounds contained in standard multiwell microtiter plates or other array structures. The multiwell plates travel along a conveyor system to a test station having a microfluidic device. At the test station, each plate is removed from the conveyor and the wells of the multiwell plate are sequentially aligned with an input port of the microfluidic device. After at least a portion of each sample has been input into the microfluidic channel system, the plate is returned to the conveyor system. Pre and/or post testing stations may be disposed along the conveyor system, and the use of an X-Y-Z robotic arm and novel plate support bracket allows each of the samples in the wells to be input into the microfluidic network through a probe affixed to a microfluidic chip. A clamshell structure having a hinged lid can releasably support the chip while providing and/or accommodating the electrical, optical, structural, and other interface connections between the microfluidic device and the surrounding system.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A support structure for robotic manipulation of a plurality of assay samples, the assay samples disposed in wells of a plurality of plates, each plate having an upper surface and a lower surface with front, back, left, and right edge surfaces extending therebetween, the s

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A support structure for robotic manipulation of a plurality of assay samples, the assay samples disposed in wells of a plurality of plates, each plate having an upper surface and a lower surface with front, back, left, and right edge surfaces extending therebetween, the support structure comprising:a beam defining a proximal end and a distal end with an axis therebetween;an upwardly oriented tab near the distal end of the beam to inhibit axial movement of the plate when the plate rests on the support structure;a pair of horizontally opposed sidewalls adjacent the proximal end of the beam, the sidewalls fittingly receiving the left and right edges of the plate when the plate rests on the support structure; andthe lower surface of each plate defining a recess between the wells and front edge, wherein the tab is received within the recess of the plate when the plate when the plate rests on the support structure.