Fluidic autosampler and incubator

Abstract

Provided are devices for automated analysis of one or more samples in single or multi-well plates or vessels, wherein the process of automated analysis comprises automated flow, wherein the samples comprise liquid or particles in a sample vessel, and wherein the devices comprise an assembly of components that enable processing of a sample for analytical assessment by fluidic and / or particle based instruments. Automated flow may comprise systems for moving samples including vacuum systems, pressure-based systems, pneumatic systems, pumps, peristaltic pumps, diaphragms, or syringes. The devices may comprise an assembly of components that enable movement in X, Y, and Z dimensions, as well as switches, microfluidic tubing, well plate block, electronic pressure controllers, pneumatic or fluidic mixing devices, components for fluid handling, sampling vessels, and mechanical components for translating or transporting system components.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to devices and methods of using the same that enable automated nano / micro / millifluidic sampling from one or more containers. The containers may comprise vessels ranging from one well or vial, to multiple multi-well plates. The devices provided herein are further capable of mixing the contents of individual wells, creating a sterile-field for biological investigation, and controlling parameters such as temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, and other cell growth conditions for material stability and monitoring of cell-based processes.DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART[0002]The increased use of automated systems for sample storage, handling, and analysis has led to extensive research in the field of automation. Current sampling systems consist of robotic arms capable of moving a sample from a storage to loading zone for sampling, magnetic or mechanical stir members capable of keeping samples in suspension, and he...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes devices that can monitor flow rates and remove bubbles from small samples. They can also mix samples by adding air bubbles or dispensing them using a vacuum. The devices can create a sterile field to prevent contamination and control the temperature of samples for incubation. These functions can be performed independently or simultaneously, depending on the device's setup.

Problems solved by technology

Prior art includes several automated sampling apparatuses encompassing various fields of analytical research (e.g.; Patent U.S. Pat. No. 4,713,974 for use with liquid chromatography) but are unable to be used for biological cellular analysis using Laser Force Cytology (LFC) due to lack of accurate and consistent nanoliter flow rate control, adequate sample mixing, and reliable temperature control for sample handling.

Although such prior art describes ways to move and mix a sample, these methods are not adequate for biological cellular analysis using LFC instrumentation.

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