Instrument analysis device and method of using the same

Abstract

The present invention discloses an instrument analysis device (100), which is designed to accommodate one or more fluid holding box assemblies (10i, 102, 103). The instrument analysis device (100) includes a support member (102), a housing (104), a box receiver (122), at least one box heater (168), an imaging device (136), and an instrument analysis device integrated circuit (140). The box receiver (122) is disposed in a cavity (120) in the instrument analysis device (100) and defines at least one box observation window (128a, 128b, 128c). At least one box heater (168) is disposed in the cavity (120) and is connected to the box receiver (122). The imaging device (136) is disposed in the cavity (120) and is arranged opposite to the at least one box observation window (128a, 128b, 128c). The instrument analyzer integrated circuit (140) is communicatively coupled to the at least one cartridge heater (168) and the imaging device (136).

Description

[0001] This invention application is a divisional application based on a patent application with an application date of April 17, 2017, application number 201780010685.X, and invention name “Instrument analysis device and method for using the device”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This international patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 439,568 filed on December 28, 2016, the disclosure of which is considered part of the disclosure of the present application and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for assaying test samples.

[0005] background

[0006] Instrumental analysis devices are known. While existing instrumental analysis devices perform adequately for their intended purpose, improvements in instrumental analysis devices are continually sought in order to advance the art.

[0007] summary

[0008] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an instrument analysis device, which is designed to be sized to accommodate more than one fluid holding box assembly. The instrument analysis device includes a support member, a housing, a box receiver, at least one box heater, an imaging device, and an instrument analysis device integrated circuit. The housing is connected to the support member. Each of the support member and the housing defines an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface of each of the support member and the housing forms a cavity. The box receiver is disposed in the cavity and connected to the inner surface of one or both of the support member and the housing. The box receiver defines at least one box observation window. The at least one box heater is disposed in the cavity and connected to the box receiver. The imaging device is disposed in the cavity and arranged to be opposite to the at least one box observation window. The instrument analysis device integrated circuit is communicatively coupled to the at least one box heater and the imaging device. The instrument analysis device integrated circuit includes data processing hardware that executes instructions stored on memory hardware for operating the at least one box heater and the imaging device.

[0010] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. For example, the cartridge receiver includes a body defining at least one first opening and at least one second opening. The at least one first opening formed by the body of the cartridge receiver is aligned with a cartridge receiver passage extending through the housing.

[0011] In some examples, the at least one cartridge heater is defined by a body comprising: a base portion; a front portion; and a rear portion. Each of the base portion, the front portion, and the rear portion is defined by a cartridge support surface. The cartridge support surface of each of the base portion and the front portion is defined by a substantially flat surface. The cartridge support surface of the rear portion comprises a substantially flat surface interrupted by a curved or arcuate surface portion.

[0012] In some cases, the at least one first opening is defined by: a first cartridge receiving opening; a second cartridge receiving opening; and a third cartridge receiving opening.

[0013] In some implementations, the at least one cartridge heater may include: a first cartridge heater; a second cartridge heater; and a third cartridge heater. The first cartridge heater corresponds to, is located opposite to, and is axially aligned with the first cartridge receiving opening in the at least one first opening. The second cartridge heater corresponds to, is located opposite to, and is axially aligned with the second cartridge receiving opening in the at least one first opening. The third cartridge heater corresponds to, is located opposite to, and is axially aligned with the third cartridge receiving opening in the at least one first opening.

[0014] In some examples, each of the first cartridge heater, the second cartridge heater, and the third cartridge heater is connected to the instrument analyzer integrated circuit. The instrument analyzer integrated circuit selectively activates each of the first cartridge heater, the second cartridge heater, and the third cartridge heater.

[0015] In some implementations, the front portion and the rear portion of the body are not connected by side portions.

[0016] In some configurations, the appliance analyzer further comprises: a fan or a temperature sensor. The fan may be located in the cavity and connected to the appliance analyzer integrated circuit. The temperature sensor is located in the cavity and connected to the appliance analyzer integrated circuit.

[0017] In other configurations, the instrument analyzer device further comprises: an imaging device integrated circuit connected to the imaging device. The imaging device integrated circuit is communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzer device integrated circuit.

[0018] In yet other configurations, the instrument analysis device further comprises: a plurality of light sources disposed within the cavity and connected to the imaging device integrated circuit. The plurality of light sources are directed toward the at least one cartridge viewing window.

[0019] In some examples, the imaging device integrated circuit independently operates each of the plurality of light sources. In other examples, the plurality of light sources are light emitting diode light sources.

[0020] In some cases, the imaging device is aligned with an area of ​​the at least one box viewing window.

[0021] In some implementations, the imaging device is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor.

[0022] In some examples, one or both of the support member and the housing define a plurality of passages extending through the support member or the housing. The plurality of passages may include a user interface passage sized to permit access to a user interface. The user interface is communicatively coupled to the appliance analyzer integrated circuit.

[0023] In some cases, the user interface is a capacitive touch screen.

[0024] In some implementations, the plurality of pathways include a data input pathway sized to permit access to an optical scanner. The optical scanner is communicatively coupled to the appliance analyzer integrated circuit. In other instances, the plurality of pathways include one or more data input / output pathways sized to permit access to one or more universal serial bus ports, one or more secure digital card ports, or an Ethernet port. In yet other instances, the one or more universal serial bus ports, the one or more secure digital card ports, or the Ethernet port are communicatively coupled to the appliance analyzer integrated circuit. In some cases, the plurality of pathways include one or more power pathways for permitting insertion into a power line to communicatively couple the appliance analyzer integrated circuit to a power source.

[0025] In an example, the appliance analyzer integrated circuit includes data processing hardware and memory hardware.

[0026] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method. The method includes the step of obtaining an instrument analysis device, the instrument analysis device including: an opening formed through a box receiver; data processing hardware; and an imaging device in communication with the data processing hardware. The method also includes the step of obtaining one or more test strip samples. The test strip sample is configured to react chemically with a chemical analyte after contact with a fluid. The method also includes the step of inserting the one or more test strip samples into the box receiver and receiving image data from the imaging device at the data processing hardware. The imaging device captures the image data within a field of view pointing to the opening formed through the box receiver. The method also includes the step of detecting the one or more test strip samples received by the box receiver based on the image data by the data processing hardware and obtaining test information associated with each detected test strip sample by the data processing hardware. For each detected test strip sample, the method includes performing an analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample based on the corresponding test information by the data processing hardware. The analysis routine is configured to analyze color and / or intensity information within a result area located on the corresponding test strip sample based on the image data received from the imaging device. The method also includes determining a test result indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte in the fluid based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information.

[0027] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. For example, the method may further include the following steps: providing one or more fluid holding box assemblies. The one or more fluid holding box assemblies are configured to hold the fluid and the fluid holding box assembly. The method further includes the following steps: inserting one or more test strip samples into the one or more fluid holding box assemblies. The method further includes the following steps: inserting the one or more fluid holding box assemblies into the box receiver.

[0028] In some implementations, the one or more fluid holding box assemblies include two fluid holding box assemblies and the one or more test strip samples include two test strip samples. The inserting step includes inserting one strip sample into one of the two fluid holding box assemblies and inserting another strip sample into the other of the fluid holding box assemblies.

[0029] In some examples, the method further includes the steps of: after obtaining the test information associated with the one or more test strip specimens inserted in the one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies, measuring, by the data processing hardware, a level of the fluid retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly; and determining, by the data processing hardware, whether the measured level of the fluid is at least a threshold fluid level. The threshold fluid level is specified by the test information. The method further includes: in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid is at least the threshold fluid level, performing the analysis routine for each detected test strip specimen retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly.

[0030] In some cases, the method further comprises the steps of: after obtaining the test information associated with the one or more test strip specimens inserted in the one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies, in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid is at least the threshold fluid level, starting a timer by the data processing hardware. The analysis routine determines the test result associated with each detected test strip specimen retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly when the timer satisfies an analysis duration specified by the test information.

[0031] In some instances, the method further includes the following steps: after obtaining the test information associated with the one or more test strip samples inserted in the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies, selectively activating at least one heating device by the data processing hardware based on an expected temperature of the retained fluid, the at least one heating device communicating with the data processing hardware and thermally coupled to the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly, the expected temperature being specified by the test information associated with at least one detected test strip sample retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly; and selectively deactivating the corresponding heating device by the data processing hardware after a specified time period specified by the test information.

[0032] In some cases, selectively activating at least one heating device includes selectively activating at least two heating devices independently of each other, one heating device thermally coupled to an inserted fluid retention cartridge assembly and another heating device thermally coupled to another inserted fluid retention cartridge assembly.

[0033] In some implementations, obtaining test information associated with each detected test strip sample includes: analyzing the image data received from the imaging device to identify one or more marking marks disposed on each detected test strip sample; determining a unique test strip identifier associated with each detected test strip sample based on the identified marking marks; and retrieving the test information associated with each detected test strip sample from memory hardware in communication with the data processing hardware using the corresponding unique test strip identifier.

[0034] In some cases, the one or more indicia are selected from barcode data, alphanumeric data, and color data.

[0035] In some implementations, obtaining the test information associated with each detected test strip specimen includes: receiving bar code data from an optical scanner in communication with the data processing hardware, the optical scanner being configured to scan the bar code data from each detected test strip specimen; determining a unique test strip identifier associated with each detected test strip specimen based on the scanned bar code data; and retrieving the test information associated with each detected test strip specimen from memory hardware in communication with the data processing hardware using the corresponding unique test strip identifier.

[0036] In some examples, the analysis routine analyzes intensity information including line intensity of one or more result lines superimposed in the result region of the corresponding test strip specimen.

[0037] In some cases, the analysis routine is further configured to: determine a rate of change of line intensity of the one or more result lines; and predict the test result indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid based on the rate of change of line intensity.

[0038] In some instances, performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample includes: performing a result line centering routine on the corresponding test strip sample to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result area of ​​the corresponding test strip sample, the result line centering routine being configured to: identify the one or more result lines superimposed in the result area based on the image data received from the imaging device; and adjust the position of the one or more result lines to align with specified result line centering information, the line centering information being specified by the test information associated with the corresponding test strip sample.

[0039] In some implementations, the method further includes executing, by the data processing hardware, an on-screen graphical user interface in communication with the data processing hardware, the graphical user interface being configured to display the test result of each tested test strip sample.

[0040] In some cases, performing the analysis routine includes performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample and performing a second analysis routine on a second tested test strip sample.

[0041] In some examples, the test strip specimens for the first and the second assays are held by a single fluid holding cartridge assembly inserted into the cartridge receiver.

[0042] In some implementations, the test strip sample for the first test is held by a first fluid holding cartridge assembly inserted into the cartridge receiver and the test strip sample for the second test is held by a second fluid holding cartridge assembly inserted into the cartridge receiver.

[0043] In some cases, the method further includes performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip specimen concurrently with the first and second analysis routines.

[0044] In some examples, the test strip specimens for the first, the second, and the third assays are all retained by a single fluid retaining cartridge assembly inserted into the cartridge receiver.

[0045] In some embodiments, the test strip sample for the first test is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly inserted into the box receiver, the test strip sample for the second test is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly inserted into the box receiver, and the test strip sample for the third test is held by a third fluid retaining box assembly inserted into the box receiver.

[0046] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method. The method includes: receiving image data from an imaging device in communication with the data processing hardware at data processing hardware. The imaging device captures the image data within a field of view directed through an opening formed by a cartridge receiver. The method also includes detecting, by the data processing hardware, one or more test strip samples received by the cartridge receiver based on the image data. The test strip samples are configured to chemically react with a chemical analyte after contact with a fluid. The method also includes obtaining, by the data processing hardware, test information associated with each detected test strip sample. For each detected test strip sample, the method includes performing, by the data processing hardware, an analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample based on the corresponding test information. The analysis routine is configured to: analyze color and / or intensity information within a result area located on the corresponding test strip sample based on the image data received from the imaging device; and determine a test result indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte in the fluid based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information.

[0047] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. For example, detecting the one or more test strip samples received by the cartridge receiver includes detecting the one or more test strip samples received by one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies removably inserted into the cartridge receiver. Each fluid retainer assembly is configured to retain the fluid and two or more test strip samples.

[0048] In some examples, detecting the one or more test strip samples received by the cartridge receiver comprises detecting a plurality of test strip samples held by two or more fluid holding cartridge assemblies removably inserted into the cartridge receiver. Each of the two or more fluid holding cartridge assemblies is removably inserted into the cartridge receiver to hold at least one of the plurality of test strip samples detected.

[0049] In some cases, after obtaining the test information associated with each detected test strip sample, the method further includes: for each removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly: measuring, by the data processing hardware, a level of the fluid retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly; determining, by the data processing hardware, whether the measured level of the fluid is at least a threshold fluid level, the threshold fluid level being specified by the test information; and in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid is at least the threshold fluid level, performing the analysis routine on each detected test strip sample retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly.

[0050] In some implementations, the method further includes: starting a timer, by the data processing hardware, in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid is at least the threshold fluid level. The analysis routine determines the test result associated with each tested test strip specimen retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly when the timer satisfies an analysis duration specified by the test information.

[0051] In some instances, after obtaining the test information associated with each detected test strip sample, the method further includes the following steps: for each removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly: selectively activating at least one heating device by the data processing hardware based on an expected temperature of the retained fluid, the at least one heating device communicating with the data processing hardware and thermally coupled to the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly, the expected temperature being specified by the test information associated with at least one detected test strip sample retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly; and selectively deactivating the corresponding heating device by the data processing hardware after a specified time period specified by the test information.

[0052] In some cases, selectively activating at least one heating device comprises selectively activating at least two heating devices independently of each other when at least two fluid retaining cartridge assemblies are removably inserted into the cartridge receiver. Each heating device is thermally coupled to a corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly and is thermally isolated from the one or more other fluid retaining cartridge assemblies.

[0053] In some implementations, obtaining test information associated with each detected test strip specimen includes: analyzing the image data received from the imaging device to identify one or more marking indicia disposed on each detected test strip specimen; determining a unique test strip identifier associated with each detected test strip specimen based on the identified marking indicia; and retrieving the test information associated with each detected test strip specimen from memory hardware in communication with the data processing hardware using the corresponding unique test strip identifier.

[0054] In some examples, the one or more marking indicia include at least one of barcode data, alphanumeric data, or color data.

[0055] In some cases, obtaining the test information associated with each detected test strip sample includes: receiving bar code data from an optical scanning device in communication with the data processing hardware, the optical scanning device being configured to scan the bar code data from each detected test strip sample; determining a unique test strip identifier associated with each detected test strip sample based on the scanned bar code data; and retrieving the test information associated with each detected test strip sample from memory hardware in communication with the data processing hardware using the corresponding unique test strip identifier.

[0056] In some implementations, the analysis routine analyzes intensity information including line intensity of one or more result lines superimposed in the result region of the corresponding test strip specimen.

[0057] In some instances, the analysis routine is further configured to: determine a rate of change of line intensity of the one or more result lines; and predict the test result indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid based on the rate of change of line intensity.

[0058] In some cases, performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip specimen includes performing a result line centering routine on the corresponding test strip specimen to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result area of ​​the corresponding test strip specimen. The result line centering routine is configured to: identify the one or more result lines superimposed in the result area based on the image data received from the imaging device; and adjust the position of the one or more result lines to align with specified result line centering information, the line centering information being specified by the test information associated with the corresponding test strip specimen.

[0059] In some examples, after performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip specimen, the method further includes storing the test result of the corresponding test strip specimen in memory hardware in communication with the data processing hardware.

[0060] In some implementations, the method further includes executing, by the data processing hardware, an on-screen graphical user interface in communication with the data processing hardware, the graphical user interface being configured to display the test result of each tested test strip sample.

[0061] In some cases, performing the analysis routine includes simultaneously performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample and performing a second analysis routine on a second tested test strip sample.

[0062] In some examples, the test strip specimens of the first and the second assays are held by a single fluid retaining cartridge assembly that is removably inserted into the cartridge receiver.

[0063] In some implementations, the test strip sample for the first test is held by a first fluid holding cartridge assembly removably inserted into the cartridge receiver, and the test strip sample for the second test is held by a second fluid holding cartridge assembly removably inserted into the cartridge receiver.

[0064] In some cases, the method further includes performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip specimen concurrently with the first and second analysis routines.

[0065] In some examples, the test strip specimens of the first, the second, and the third assays are all retained by a single fluid retaining cartridge assembly that is removably inserted into the cartridge receiver.

[0066] In some embodiments, the test strip sample for the first test is held by a first fluid retaining cartridge assembly removably inserted into the cartridge receiver, the test strip sample for the second test is held by a second fluid retaining cartridge assembly removably inserted into the cartridge receiver, and the test strip sample for the third test is held by a third fluid retaining cartridge assembly removably inserted into the cartridge receiver.

[0067] The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0068] The present invention comprises:

[0069] 1. An instrument analysis device (100), the instrument analysis device (100) being designed and sized to receive one or more fluid holding cartridge assemblies (101, 102, 103), the instrument analysis device (100) comprising:

[0070] A support member (102);

[0071] a housing (104) connected to the support member (102), wherein each of the support member (102) and the housing (104) defines an outer surface (112, 116) and an inner surface (114, 118), wherein the inner surface (114, 118) of each of the support member (102) and the housing (104) forms a cavity (120);

[0072] a cartridge receiver (122) disposed within the cavity (120) and coupled to the inner surface (114, 118) of one or both of the support member (102) and the housing (104), wherein the cartridge receiver (122) defines at least one cartridge viewing window (128a, 128b, 128c);

[0073] at least one cartridge heater (168), the at least one cartridge heater (168) disposed within the cavity (120) and connected to the cartridge receiver (122);

[0074] an imaging device (136) disposed within the cavity (120) and arranged opposite the at least one cartridge viewing window (128a, 128b, 128c); and

[0075] An instrument analyzer integrated circuit (140) is communicatively coupled to the at least one cartridge heater (168) and the imaging device (136), wherein the instrument analyzer integrated circuit (140) includes data processing hardware (143) that executes instructions stored on memory hardware (145) for operating the at least one cartridge heater (168) and the imaging device (136).

[0076] 2. An instrument analysis device (100) as described in claim 1, wherein the box receiver (122) includes a main body (124) defining at least one first opening (126) and at least one second opening (128), wherein the at least one first opening (126) formed by the main body (124) of the box receiver (122) is aligned with a box receiver passage (130) extending through the housing (104).

[0077] 3. The instrument analysis device (100) of claim 2, wherein the at least one cartridge heater (168) is defined by a body (172), the body (172) comprising:

[0078] a base portion (172a), a front portion (172b), and a rear portion (172c);

[0079] wherein each of the base portion (172a), the front portion (172b), and the rear portion (172c) is defined by a box support surface (174a, 174b, 174c);

[0080] wherein the cartridge support surface (174a, 174b) of each of the base portion (172a) and the front portion (172b) is defined by a substantially flat surface; and

[0081] Wherein the box supporting surface (174c) of the rear portion (172c) comprises a substantially flat surface interrupted by curved or arcuate surface portions.

[0082] 4. The instrument analysis device (100) of claim 2, wherein the at least one first opening (126) is defined by:

[0083] a first box receiving opening (126a);

[0084] A second box receiving opening (126b); and

[0085] The third box receiving opening (126c).

[0086] 5. The instrument analysis device (100) of claim 4, wherein the at least one cartridge heater (168) may include:

[0087] a first cartridge heater (168a);

[0088] a second cartridge heater (168b); and

[0089] A third box heater (168c), wherein the first box heater (168a) corresponds to, is positioned opposite to and is axially aligned with the first box receiving opening (126a) in the at least one first opening (126), wherein the second box heater (168b) corresponds to, is positioned opposite to and is axially aligned with the second box receiving opening (126b) in the at least one first opening (126), wherein the third box heater (168c) corresponds to, is positioned opposite to and is axially aligned with the third box receiving opening (126c) in the at least one first opening (126).

[0090] 6. An instrument analysis device (100) as described in claim 5, wherein each of the first box heater (168a), the second box heater (168b) and the third box heater (168c) is connected to the instrument analysis device integrated circuit (140).

[0091] 7. An instrument analyzing device (100) as described in claim 6, wherein the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140) selectively activates each of the first box heater (168a), the second box heater (168b) and the third box heater (168c).

[0092] 8. The instrument analyzing device (100) according to item 3, wherein the front portion (172b) and the rear portion (172c) of the main body (172) are not connected by a side portion.

[0093] 9. The device analysis device (100) according to item 1, further comprising:

[0094] a fan (180), the fan (180) being located within the cavity (120), wherein the fan (180) is connected to the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140); or

[0095] A temperature sensor (181) is located in the cavity (120), wherein the temperature sensor (181) is connected to the instrument analyzer integrated circuit (140).

[0096] 10. The device analysis device (100) according to item 1, further comprising:

[0097] An imaging device integrated circuit (134) is connected to the imaging device (136), wherein the imaging device integrated circuit (134) is communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzer integrated circuit (140).

[0098] 11. The device analysis device (100) according to item 10, further comprising:

[0099] A plurality of light sources (184) are disposed within the cavity (120) and connected to the imaging device integrated circuit (134), wherein the plurality of light sources (184) are directed toward the at least one box viewing window (128a, 128b, 128c).

[0100] 12. The appliance analyzing device (100) of claim 11, wherein the imaging device integrated circuit (134) independently operates each of the plurality of light sources (184).

[0101] 13. The instrument analysis device (100) according to item 12, wherein the plurality of light sources (184) are light emitting diode light sources.

[0102] 14. The instrument analysis device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the imaging device (136) is aligned with the area (R 128 )alignment.

[0103] 15. The instrument analysis device (100) of item 1, wherein the imaging device (136) is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor.

[0104] 16. An instrument analysis device (100) as described in claim 1, wherein one or both of the support member (102) and the housing (104) define a plurality of passages (144-150) extending through the support member (102) or the housing (104).

[0105] 17. An instrument analyzing device (100) as described in claim 16, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include a user interface pathway (144) sized to permit access to a user interface (154), wherein the user interface (154) is communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140).

[0106] 18. The appliance analysis device (100) of claim 17, wherein the user interface (154) is a capacitive touch screen.

[0107] 19. An instrument analyzer device (100) as described in claim 16, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include a data input pathway (146) sized to permit access to an optical scanner (158), wherein the optical scanner (158) is communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzer device integrated circuit (140).

[0108] 20. An instrument analysis device (100) as described in claim 16, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include one or more data input / output pathways (148) sized to allow access to one or more Universal Serial Bus ports (162a), one or more Secure Digital card ports (162b), or an Ethernet port (162c).

[0109] 21. An appliance analyzing device (100) as described in claim 20, wherein the one or more Universal Serial Bus ports (162a), the one or more Secure Digital Card ports (162b) or the Ethernet port (162c) are communicatively coupled to the appliance analyzing device integrated circuit (140).

[0110] 22. An appliance analyzing device (100) as described in claim 20, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include one or more power pathways (150) for permitting insertion of a power line (166) to communicatively couple the appliance analyzing device integrated circuit (140) to a power source (P).

[0111] 23. The appliance analyzing device (100) of item 1, wherein the appliance analyzing device integrated circuit (140) comprises data processing hardware (143) and memory hardware (145).

[0112] 24. A method comprising:

[0113] obtaining an instrument analysis device (100), wherein the instrument analysis device (100) includes an opening (128) formed through a cartridge receiver (122), data processing hardware (143), and an imaging device (136) in communication with the data processing hardware (143);

[0114] obtaining one or more test strip specimens (I), wherein the test strip specimens (I) are configured to chemically react with a chemical analyte upon contact with a fluid (F);

[0115] inserting the one or more test strip specimens (I) into the cartridge receiver (122);

[0116] receiving image data (141) at the data processing hardware (143) from the imaging device (136), the imaging device (136) capturing the image data (141) within a field of view directed toward the opening (128) formed through the cartridge receiver (122);

[0117] detecting, by the data processing hardware (143), the one or more test strip samples (I) received by the cartridge receiver (122) based on the image data (141);

[0118] obtaining, by the data processing hardware (143), test information (149) associated with each tested test strip sample (I); and

[0119] For each detected test strip sample (I), an analysis routine is performed on the corresponding test strip sample (I) by the data processing hardware (143) based on the corresponding test information (149), the analysis routine being configured to:

[0120] analyzing color and / or intensity information (DS) within a result area (R) located on the corresponding test strip specimen (I) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and

[0121] A test result (190) indicative of the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid (F) is determined based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information (DS).

[0122] 25. The method of claim 24, further comprising:

[0123] providing one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies (10), wherein the one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies (10) are configured to retain the fluid (F) and the fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10);

[0124] inserting one or more test strip specimens (I) into the one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies (10); and

[0125] The one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies (10) are inserted into the cartridge receiver (122).

[0126] 26. The method according to claim 25,

[0127] wherein the one or more fluid holding box assemblies (10) include two fluid holding box assemblies (101, 102) and the one or more test strip samples (I) include two test strip samples (I1, I2); and

[0128] The inserting step includes inserting one sample strip (I1) into one of the two fluid holding box assemblies (101) and inserting another sample strip (I2) into the other of the fluid holding box assemblies (102).

[0129] 27. The method of claim 26, further comprising:

[0130] After obtaining the test information (149) associated with the one or more test strip specimens (I) inserted into the one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies (10),

[0131] measuring, by said data processing hardware (143), a level of said fluid (F) retained by said corresponding inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10);

[0132] determining, by the data processing hardware (143), whether the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least a threshold fluid level, wherein the threshold fluid level is specified by the test information (149); and

[0133] In response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, the analysis routine is performed on each tested test strip specimen (I) retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10).

[0134] 28. The method of claim 27, further comprising:

[0135] After obtaining the test information (149) associated with the one or more test strip specimens (I) inserted into the one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies (10),

[0136] initiating a timer by the data processing hardware (143) in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level,

[0137] Wherein the analysis routine determines the test result (190) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10) when the timer satisfies the analysis duration specified by the test information (149).

[0138] 29. The method of claim 28, further comprising:

[0139] After obtaining the test information (149) associated with the one or more test strip specimens (I) inserted into the one or more fluid retaining cartridge assemblies (10),

[0140] selectively activating, by the data processing hardware (143), at least one heating device (168), in communication with the data processing hardware (143) and thermally coupled to a corresponding inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10), based on a desired temperature of the retained fluid (F), the desired temperature being specified by the test information (149) associated with at least one detected test strip specimen (I) retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10); and

[0141] The corresponding heating device (168) is selectively deactivated by the data processing hardware (143) after a specified period of time specified by the test information (149).

[0142] 30. The method of claim 29, wherein selectively activating at least one heating device (168) comprises selectively activating at least two heating devices (168) independently of each other. a , 168 b ), a heating device (168 a ) is thermally coupled to the inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (101), another heating device (168 b ) is thermally coupled to another inserted fluid retention box assembly (102).

[0143] 31. The method of claim 24, wherein obtaining test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) comprises:

[0144] analyzing the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136) to identify one or more indicia disposed on each tested test strip specimen (I);

[0145] determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each tested test strip sample (I) based on the identified signature;

[0146] The test information (149) associated with each detected test strip specimen (I) is retrieved from memory hardware (145) in communication with the data processing hardware (143) using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147).

[0147] 32. A method as described in item 31, wherein the one or more marking marks are selected from bar code data (B), alphanumeric data (#) and color data (C).

[0148] 33. The method of claim 24, wherein obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) comprises:

[0149] receiving bar code data (B) from an optical scanner (158) in communication with the data processing hardware (143), the optical scanner (158) being configured to scan the bar code data (B) from each tested test strip specimen (I);

[0150] determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each tested test strip specimen (I) based on the scanned bar code data (B); and

[0151] The test information (149) associated with each detected test strip specimen (I) is retrieved from memory hardware (145) in communication with the data processing hardware (143) using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147).

[0152] 34. A method as described in claim 24, wherein the analysis routine analyzes intensity information (DS), and the intensity information (DS) includes line intensity of one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0153] 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the analysis routine is further configured to:

[0154] determining a rate of change of line intensity of the one or more resultant lines; and

[0155] The test result (190) indicative of the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid (F) is predicted based on the rate of change of line intensity.

[0156] 36. The method of claim 24, wherein performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) comprises performing a result line centering routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result region (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I), the result line centering routine being configured to:

[0157] identifying the one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and

[0158] The position of the one or more result lines is adjusted to align with specified result line centering information, the line centering information being specified by the test information (149) associated with the corresponding test strip specimen (I).

[0159] 37. A method as described in claim 24, further comprising executing a graphical user interface (153) on a screen (154) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143) through the data processing hardware (143), wherein the graphical user interface (153) is configured to display the test result (190) of each detected test strip sample (I).

[0160] 38. A method as described in claim 24, wherein performing the analysis routine includes performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample (I1) and performing a second analysis routine on a second tested test strip sample (I2).

[0161] 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the test strip specimens (I1, I2) of the first and second assays are held by a single fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10) inserted into the cartridge receiver (122).

[0162] 40. A method as described in claim 38, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) inserted into the box receiver (122) and the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0163] 41. The method of claim 38, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip sample (I3) simultaneously with the first and second analysis routines.

[0164] 42. A method as described in claim 41, wherein the test strip samples (I1, I2, I3) of the first, second and third tests are all retained by a single fluid retaining box assembly (10) inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0165] 43. A method as described in claim 41, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) inserted into the box receiver (122), the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) inserted into the box receiver (122), and the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is held by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0166] 44. A method comprising:

[0167] receiving image data (141) at data processing hardware (143) from an imaging device (136) in communication with the data processing hardware (143), the imaging device (136) capturing the image data (141) within a field of view directed through an opening (128) formed through a cartridge receiver (122);

[0168] detecting, by the data processing hardware (143) based on the image data (141), one or more test strip samples (I) received by the cartridge receiver (122), the test strip samples (I) being configured to chemically react with a chemical analyte after contact with a fluid (F);

[0169] obtaining, by the data processing hardware (143), test information (149) associated with each tested test strip sample (I); and

[0170] For each detected test strip sample (I), an analysis routine is performed on the corresponding test strip sample (I) by the data processing hardware (143) based on the corresponding test information (149), the analysis routine being configured to:

[0171] analyzing color and / or intensity information (DS) within a result area (R) located on the corresponding test strip specimen (I) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and

[0172] A test result (190) indicative of the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid (F) is determined based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information (DS).

[0173] 45. A method as described in claim 44, wherein detecting the one or more test strip samples (I) received by the box receiver (122) includes continuously detecting the one or more test strip samples (I) retained by one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) removably inserted into the box receiver (122), each fluid retainer assembly (10) being configured to retain the fluid (F) and two or more test strip samples (I).

[0174] 46. ​​A method as described in claim 45, wherein detecting the one or more test strip samples (I) received by the box receiver (126) includes detecting a plurality of test strip samples (I) retained by two or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) removably inserted into the box receiver (126), each of the two or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) being removably inserted into the box receiver (126) so as to retain at least one of the plurality of test strip samples (I) being detected.

[0175] 47. The method of claim 45, further comprising, after obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I):

[0176] For each removably inserted fluid retention cartridge assembly (10):

[0177] measuring, by said data processing hardware (143), a level of said fluid (F) retained by said corresponding removably insertable fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10);

[0178] determining, by the data processing hardware (143), whether the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least a threshold fluid level, the threshold fluid level being specified by the test information (149); and

[0179] In response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, the analysis routine is performed on each tested test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10).

[0180] 48. The method of clause 47, further comprising starting a timer by the data processing hardware (143) in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level,

[0181] Wherein the analysis routine determines the test result (190) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10) when the timer satisfies the analysis duration, the analysis duration being specified by the test information (149).

[0182] 49. The method of claim 45, further comprising, after obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I):

[0183] For each removably inserted fluid retention cartridge assembly (10):

[0184] selectively activating, by the data processing hardware (143), at least one heating device (168), in communication with the data processing hardware (143) and thermally coupled to a corresponding removably insertable fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10), based on a desired temperature of the retained fluid (F), the desired temperature being specified by the test information (149) associated with at least one detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably insertable fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10); and

[0185] The corresponding heating device (168) is selectively deactivated by the data processing hardware (143) after a specified period of time specified by the test information (149).

[0186] 50. A method as described in claim 49, wherein selectively activating at least one heating device (168) includes selectively activating at least two heating devices (168) independently of each other when at least two fluid retaining box assemblies (10) are removably inserted into the box receiver (122), each heating device (168) being thermally coupled to a corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10) and thermally isolated from the one or more other fluid retaining box assemblies (10).

[0187] 51. The method of claim 44, wherein obtaining test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) comprises:

[0188] analyzing the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136) to identify one or more indicia disposed on each tested test strip specimen (I);

[0189] determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each tested test strip sample (I) based on the identified signature;

[0190] The test information (149) associated with each detected test strip specimen (I) is retrieved from memory hardware (145) in communication with the data processing hardware (143) using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147).

[0191] 52. A method as described in item 51, wherein the one or more marking marks include at least one of bar code data (B), alphanumeric data (#), or color data (C).

[0192] 53. The method of claim 44, wherein obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) comprises:

[0193] receiving bar code data (B) from an optical scanning device (158) in communication with the data processing hardware (143), the optical scanning device (158) being configured to scan the bar code data (B) from each tested test strip specimen (I);

[0194] determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each tested test strip specimen (I) based on the scanned bar code data (B); and

[0195] The test information (149) associated with each detected test strip specimen (I) is retrieved from memory hardware (145) in communication with the data processing hardware (143) using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147).

[0196] 54. A method as described in claim 44, wherein the analysis routine analyzes intensity information (DS), and the intensity information (DS) includes line intensity of one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0197] 55. The method of claim 54, wherein the analysis routine is further configured to:

[0198] determining a rate of change of line intensity of the one or more resultant lines; and

[0199] The test result (190) indicative of the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid (F) is predicted based on the rate of change of line intensity.

[0200] 56. The method of claim 44, wherein performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) comprises performing a result line centering routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I), the result line centering routine being configured to:

[0201] identifying the one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and

[0202] The position of the one or more result lines is adjusted to align with specified result line centering information, the line centering information being specified by the test information (149) associated with the corresponding test strip specimen (I).

[0203] 57. The method of claim 44, further comprising storing the test result (190) of the corresponding test strip sample (I) in memory hardware (145) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143) after performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0204] 58. A method as described in claim 44, further comprising executing a graphical user interface (153) on a screen (154) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143) through the data processing hardware (143), wherein the graphical user interface (153) is configured to display the test result (190) of each detected test strip sample (I).

[0205] 59. A method as described in claim 44, wherein performing the analysis routine includes simultaneously performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample (I1) and performing a second analysis routine on a second tested test strip sample (I2).

[0206] 60. The method of claim 59, wherein the first and second detected test strip specimens (I1, I2) are retained by a single fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10) removably insertable into the cartridge receiver (122).

[0207] 61. A method as described in claim 59, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122) and the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0208] 62. The method of claim 59, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip sample (I3) simultaneously with the first and second analysis routines.

[0209] 63. A method as described in claim 62, wherein the test strip samples (I1, I2, I3) of the first, second and third tests are all retained by a single fluid retaining box assembly (10) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (126).

[0210] 64. A method as described in claim 62, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), and the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is held by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0211] 65. The method of clause 44, wherein performing the analysis routine comprises:

[0212] performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample (I1) held by a first fluid holding cartridge assembly (101) removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (122); and

[0213] A second analysis routine is performed on a second detected test strip sample (I2), the second detected test strip sample (I2) being retained by a second fluid retaining cartridge assembly (102) removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (122), the second fluid retaining cartridge assembly (102) being associated with a position in the cartridge receiver (122) that is different from a position associated with the first fluid retaining cartridge assembly (101).

[0214] 66. A method as described in claim 65, wherein the first and the second analysis routines are performed independently of each other.

[0215] 67. The method of claim 65, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third detected test strip sample (I3).

[0216] 68. A method as described in claim 67, wherein the third analysis routine is performed simultaneously with at least one of the first analysis routine or the second analysis routine.

[0217] 69. A method as described in claim 67, wherein the first, the second and the third analysis routines are performed independently of each other.

[0218] 70. A method as described in claim 67, wherein the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is retained by the first fluid retaining box assembly (101) or the second fluid retaining box assembly (102).

[0219] 71. A method as described in claim 67, wherein the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is retained by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), and the third fluid retaining box assembly (103) is associated with a position in the box receiver (122), which is different from the position associated with the first and second box assemblies (101, 102). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0220] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0221] Figure 1A is an exploded perspective view of a fluid retention cartridge assembly and a plurality of implements positioned relative to the fluid retention cartridge assembly.

[0222] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A An assembled perspective view of a fluid retention cartridge assembly and a plurality of instruments positioned within the fluid retention cartridge assembly.

[0223] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A Front view of the base portion of the fluid retention cartridge assembly.

[0224] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Rear view of the base portion.

[0225] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A top view of the base portion of the device.

[0226] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 Bottom view of the base portion.

[0227] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A side view of the base portion of the device.

[0228] Figure 7 is based on Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the base portion of line 7-7.

[0229] Figure 8 yes Figure 1A Front view of the cap portion of the fluid retaining cartridge assembly.

[0230] Fig. 9yes Figure 6 Rear view of the cap portion.

[0231] Fig.10 yes Figure 6 A top view of the cap portion of the .

[0232] Fig.11 yes Figure 6 A bottom view of the cap portion of the .

[0233] Fig.12 yes Figure 6 A side view of the cap portion of the device.

[0234] Fig.13 is based on Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the base portion of line 13-13.

[0235] Fig.14A yes Figure 1A Exploded front view of the fluid retaining box assembly.

[0236] Fig. 14B yes Fig.14A An assembled front view of the fluid retaining box assembly.

[0237] Fig.15A yes Figure 1A Exploded rear view of the fluid retaining box assembly.

[0238] Fig. 15B yes Fig.15A Rear assembled view of the fluid retaining box assembly.

[0239] Fig.16 yes Fig. 14B or Fig. 15B Side view of the fluid retaining box assembly.

[0240] Fig.17 is based on Fig. 14B or Fig. 15B A cross-sectional view of the fluid retaining box assembly along line 17-17.

[0241] Fig.18 is based on Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of the fluid retaining cartridge assembly taken along line 18-18.

[0242] Fig.19 is based on Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of the fluid retaining box assembly along line 19-19.

[0243] Fig.19A is based on Fig.19 An enlarged view of line 19A.

[0244] Fig. 20 is based on Fig.19 Another cross-sectional view of the fluid retaining box assembly.

[0245] Fig. 20A is based on Fig. 20 An enlarged view of line 20A.

[0246] Fig.21 is based on Fig. 20 Another cross-sectional view of the fluid retaining box assembly.

[0247] Fig.21A is based on Fig.21 An enlarged view of line 21A.

[0248] Fig. 22 is based on Figure 1B Front view of the fluid retaining box assembly of line 22.

[0249] Fig.23 is an exploded perspective view of an instrument analysis device and a plurality of fluid retaining cartridge assemblies containing a plurality of instruments positioned within the plurality of fluid retaining cartridge assemblies.

[0250] Fig.24A yes Fig.23 A right side perspective view of a device illustrating a plurality of fluid retaining cartridge assemblies disposed within an instrument analytical device.

[0251] Fig. 24B yes Fig.23 , which shows a left perspective view of a plurality of fluid retaining cartridge assemblies disposed within an instrument analytical device.

[0252] Fig.25 is corresponding to Fig.24A A right side perspective view of a plurality of fluid retaining cartridge assemblies disposed within an instrument analytical device, with the housing of the instrument analytical device illustrated in phantom to reveal components within a cavity of the instrument analytical device.

[0253] Fig.26 is based on Fig.24A A cross-sectional view of the apparatus analysis device along line 26-26.

[0254] Fig. 27 is a front view of a portion of an instrument analysis device showing an exemplary data input channel and an exemplary optical scanner,

[0255] Fig.28 is a perspective view of an exemplary box heater for an instrument analysis device.

[0256] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 Side view of a cartridge heater.

[0257] Fig.30 yes Fig.28 Top view of the box heater.

[0258] Fig.31 is a perspective view of multiple box heaters interfacing with multiple fluid retaining box assemblies.

[0259] Fig.32 Yes Fig.31 An exploded view of a sub-assembly of an instrument analysis device having multiple box heaters and box receivers.

[0260] Fig.33 yes Fig.32 Assembly drawing of the subassembly.

[0261] Fig.34 is based on Fig.33 A cross-sectional view of the subassembly along line 34-34.

[0262] Fig.35 is a block diagram showing the connections of the components of the appliance analyzing device.

[0263] Fig.36 is a partial perspective view of an appliance analyzing device with a housing removed from a supporting member of the appliance analyzing device.

[0264] Fig.37 is a rear view of a calibration cartridge that can be interfaced to an instrument analyzing device.

[0265] Fig.38 yes Fig.37 Front view of the calibration box.

[0266] Fig.39 is a flow chart of an example method for determining a test result indicative of the presence and / or concentration of a chemical analyte within a fluid in contact with a test strip specimen.

[0267] Like reference numbers in the various drawings indicate like elements. Detailed Description

[0268] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the present disclosure will be exhaustive and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that example configurations may be implemented in many different forms without employing the specific details, and that the specific details and example configurations should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0269] The terms used herein are only used to describe the purpose of a specific exemplary configuration and are not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular articles "one", "a kind of" and "said" may also wish to include plural forms. The terms "include", "comprise" and "have" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups. Unless specifically identified as an execution order, the method steps, processes and operations described herein are not interpreted as necessarily requiring execution in the specific order discussed or shown. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0270] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" or "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, directly engaged to, connected to, attached to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" or "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0271] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or districts in this article. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or districts should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or district from another region, layer or district. Unless the context clearly indicates, terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply sequence or order. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the example configuration, the first element, component, region, layer or district discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or district.

[0272] Reference Figure 1A and 1B , a fluid retaining cartridge assembly is generally shown at 10. The fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 includes a base portion 12 and a cap portion 14 fluidly connected to the base portion 12. The fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 may optionally include a fluid filter 11 that may be connected to the base portion 12.

[0273] As disclosed below (in Figure 18-22) is explained in more detail, the base portion 12 and the cap portion 14 together hold at least one (eg, three) utensils 1 (see, for example, Figure 1A-1B ), while the base portion 12 is filled with a certain amount of fluid F, such as raw milk (see, for example Figure 1B ) is directed into a fluid receiving space defined by the cap portion 14. If a fluid filter 11 is optionally included, it can filter the fluid F. Once the fluid F reaches the fluid receiving space of the cap portion 14, the fluid F contacts at least one utensil I. In an example, at least one utensil I can be a test strip sample and the fluid F can include a chemical analyte (e.g., a veterinary antibiotic such as a β-lactam or a tetracycline) that chemically reacts with the at least one test strip sample I. Figure 1A In the example shown in FIG. 1 , each of the plurality of instruments I may include a marking mark, such as may be provided by the instrument analysis device 100 (see, for example, Fig.23 ) of an optical reader 136 (see, e.g. Figure 25-26 ), alphanumeric data # (e.g., letters and / or numbers), color data C, etc., the instrument analysis device 100 can monitor, read, and analyze the instrument I before, during, or after one or more instruments I come into contact with the fluid F. The preloaded cartridge assembly 10 may include identification markings on the cartridge itself that can be interpreted and used to identify the set of tests present. The barcode data B may include a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional barcode.

[0274] Although the exemplary fluid F may include, for example, raw milk as described above, other fluids F may be interfaced with the fluid retention cartridge assembly 10. For example, other exemplary fluids F may include, but are not limited to, blood, saliva, cereal fluids, etc. Furthermore, the fluid F may be interfaced with the fluid retention cartridge assembly 10 at any desired temperature, such as, for example, room temperature, a temperature below room temperature (due to, for example, cooling or refrigerating the fluid F), or a temperature above room temperature (due to, for example, warming or heating the fluid F).

[0275] Each in base part 12 and cap part 14 can be by thermoplastic or other materials suitable for injection molding, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS plastic) formation.Other exemplary materials can comprise polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, polycarbonate and thermoplastic (for example, graphite, carbon fiber, glass reinforcement) that is infused with polymer to enhance thermal conductivity.Thermoplastic material can promote for example heat to carry out sufficient heat transfer from external heating source, so that warm or heat the fluid F that is arranged on fluid to keep in box assembly 10.

[0276] Reference Figure 2-7 The base portion 12 includes a front surface 16 F (See e.g. Figure 2), rear surface 16 R (See e.g. Figure 3 ), distal surface 16 D (See e.g. Figure 4 ), proximal surface 16 P (See e.g. Figure 5 ), the first side surface 16 S1 (See e.g. Figure 6 ) and the second side surface 16 S2 (See e.g. Figure 3 and 6 ) defined by the subject 16. Figure 2-3 As seen in FIG. 1 , the base portion 12 is further generally formed by a distal surface 16 D With the proximal surface 16 P The length L between 12 The base portion 12 is even further generally defined by a first side surface 16 S1 The second side surface 16 S2 The width W between 12 limited.

[0277] Reference Figure 2 , the front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 F The length L along the base portion 12 is generally defined 12 Part of L 12-P One or more utensil receiving channels 18 (eg, three utensil receiving channels 18a-18c) extend. The one or more utensil receiving channels 18 may be defined by the first side wall flange 20a, the second side wall flange 20b, the first rib 22a, and the second rib 22b.

[0278] The first side wall flange 20a extends away from the front surface 16 F and arranged close to the first side surface 16 S1 The second side wall flange 20b extends away from the front surface 16 F and arranged close to the second side surface 16 S2 The first rib 22a extends away from the front surface 16 F and is arranged close to the first side wall flange 20a. The second rib 22b extends away from the front surface 16 F And is arranged close to the second side wall flange 20b but spaced apart from the second side wall flange 20b.

[0279] The first side wall flange 20a is spaced apart from the first rib 22a by a distance equal to the width W of the base portion 12 12 The first part of W 12-1 The first part of the distance W 12-1The first rib 22a is used to define the first utensil receiving channel 18a of the one or more utensil receiving channels 18. The first rib 22a is spaced apart from the second rib 18b by a width W of the base portion 12. 12 The second part of W 12-2 The distance, the second part W 12-2 The second rib 22b is used to define the second utensil receiving channel 18b in the one or more utensil receiving channels 18. The second rib 22b is spaced apart from the second side wall flange 20b by a width W of the base portion 12. 12 The third part of W 12-3 The distance, the third part W 12-3 The third tool storage channel 18 c is used to define one or more tool storage channels 18 .

[0280] Continue to refer to Figure 2 , the front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 F The distal end of the tool holding portion 24 is further defined. The distal end of the tool holding portion 24 extends across the width W of the base portion 12. 12 And connect the first side wall flange 20a to the second side wall flange 20b. In addition, the distal end holding portion 24 of the device can be further formed by the distal end 24 D and proximal 24 P Limit; Remote 24 D The base portion 12 may be disposed at a distal end surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12. D Distance D 24 The distal end of the instrument holding portion 24 may further include a series of friction ribs 25 that are provided when the fluid holding cartridge assembly 10 is inserted into the instrument analysis device 100 (see, e.g., Fig.23 ), such as an optical reader 136 (see e.g. Figure 25-26 ) when removing the fluid retaining box assembly 10 from the instrument analysis device 100, and the instrument analysis device 100 can monitor, read and analyze the one or more instruments I before, during or after the one or more instruments I come into contact with the fluid F.

[0281] Reference Figure 2 and 7 Each of the first side wall flange 20a and the second side wall flange 20b may extend along the length L of the base portion 12. 12 Part L 12-P The front surface 16 of the body 16 extending away from the base portion 12 F Up to a substantially constant distance D 20(See e.g. Figure 7 Each of the first rib 22a and the second rib 22b may extend along the length L of the base portion 12. 12 Part L 12-P The first section L 12-P1 (See e.g. Figure 2 ) extends away from the front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 F Up to a substantially constant distance D 22-1 (See e.g. Figure 7 ). The length L of the base portion 12 12 Part L 12-P The first section L 12-P1 Can be near L 12-P1P and the distal L 12-P1D In some examples, each of the first rib 22a and the second rib 22b can be provided along the length L of the base portion 12. 12 Part L 12-P The second section L 12-P2 (See e.g. Figure 2 ) from the length L of the base portion 12 12 Part L 12-P The first section L 12-P1 The distal end L 12-P1D Towards the proximal end 24 of the distal holding portion 24 of the instrument P The front surface 16 of the body 16 extending away from the base portion 12 F A gradually increasing distance D 22-2 (See e.g. Figure 7 ).

[0282] like Figure 2 As seen in FIG. 1 , the front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 F A portion of (i.e., tongue portion 28) does not include any of the first side wall flange 20a, the second side wall flange 20b, the first rib 22a, and the second rib 22b. Figure 1B In the example seen in FIG. 1 , when one or more utensils 1 are interfaced with the fluid retaining box assembly 10, one or more utensils 1 may extend from one or more utensils receiving channels 18 and extend over the tongue portion 28.

[0283] Reference Figure 2 , the tongue portion 28 may be formed by a length L of the base portion 12 12 Part L 12-P The first section L 12-P1 The proximal L 12-P1P The proximal surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 P The length L extending between the most proximal / lowest part of 28In some cases, the proximal surface 16 P The tongue portion 28 may include an arcuate shape that partially defines the tongue portion 28. In addition, the proximal surface 16 P The first side surface 16 S1 Connected to (see, for example, dashed line X extending across tongue portion 28) 28 ) The second side surface 16 S2 . And even more, such as Figure 2 As seen in FIG. 1 , the first side surface 16 S1 The length L along the tongue portion 28 28 Substantially parallel to the second side surface 16 S2 Thus, in an example, the tongue portion 28 may be generally defined by: (1) a portion of the first side surface 16 S1 and the second side surface 16 S2 The substantially square or rectangular portion 28a is defined by (2) the proximal surface 16 P The substantially 'half-moon-shaped' portion 28b is defined by the dashed line X 28 To be distinguished from the substantially square or rectangular portion 28a.

[0284] Although the first side wall flange 20a, the second side wall flange 20b, the first rib 22a and the second rib 22b do not extend away from the front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 defined by the tongue portion 28, F , but the plurality of protrusions 30 extend away from the front surface 16 of the body 16 of the base portion 12 defined by the tongue portion 28 F Distance D 30 (See e.g. Figure 7 In some implementations, the plurality of protrusions 30 may be substantially cylindrical (or they may have another shape for evenly distributing and selectively flowing the fluid F, as described below), and may be linearly arranged in a row (see, for example, the dashed line R extending across the 'half-moon' portion 28b). 30 , which is substantially parallel to the dotted line X 28 ). In addition, the rows R of the plurality of protrusions 30 30 The 'half-moon' portion 28b may extend from the tongue portion and may be arranged at a length L of the base portion 12. 12 Part L 12-P The first section L 12-P1 The proximal L 12-P1P Distance length L 30 (see e.g. Figure 2 ).

[0285] In the example, Figure 2As seen in FIG. 1 , the plurality of protrusions 30 may be defined by a first protrusion 30a, a second protrusion 30b, a third protrusion 30c, a fourth protrusion 30d, and a fifth protrusion 30e. In some implementations, the plurality of protrusions 30 including the first to fifth protrusions 30a-30e may be arranged relative to the first to third utensil receiving channels 18a-18c as follows: (1) the first protrusion 30a may be spaced apart from the first to third utensil receiving channels 18a-18c by a width W. 12 The first portion W defining the first utensil receiving passage 18a 12-1 The center (see, for example, dashed line C 18a ), (2) the second protrusion 30b may be aligned with the center of the first rib 22a that partially defines each of the first and second utensil receiving channels 18a, 18b (see, for example, dashed line C 22a ) is aligned, (3) the third protrusion 30c can be aligned with the width W 12 The second portion W defining the second utensil receiving passage 18b 12-2 The center (see, for example, dashed line C 18b ), (4) the fourth protrusion 30d may be aligned with the center of the second rib 22b that partially defines each of the second and third utensil receiving channels 18b, 18c (see, for example, dashed line C 22b ) and (5) the fifth protrusion 30e may be aligned with the width W 12 The third portion W defining the third utensil receiving passage 18c 12-3 The center (see, for example, dashed line C 18c )alignment.

[0286] In an example, the tongue portion 28 may further define a thickness T extending through the body 16 of the base portion 12. 16 (See e.g. Figure 7 ) of the fluid flow passage 32. The thickness T of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 16 The front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 is formed by the tongue portion 28. F and the rear surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 R In addition, if Figure 2-3 As seen in the figure, the fluid flow passage 32 can be defined by the substantially 'half-moon shaped' portion 28b of the tongue portion 28. In some cases, the fluid flow passage 32 can include a 'half-moon shaped' geometric shape that is smaller but substantially proportional to the 'half-moon shaped' portion 28b of the tongue portion 28 and includes a maximum width W extending between the laterally outermost portions of each of the second protrusion 30b and the fourth protrusion 30d. 32 (See e.g. Figure 3 ).

[0287] In yet another example, the tongue portion 28 may further define a fluid flow guiding rib 34. The fluid flow guiding rib 34 may extend away from the front surface 16 of the body 16 of the base portion 12 defined by the substantially 'half-moon shaped' portion 28b of the tongue portion 28. F Distance D 34 (See e.g. Figure 7 ). In addition, if Figure 2 As seen in FIG. 1 , the fluid flow directing rib 34 may include an arcuate shape and may be disposed proximal to the proximal surface 16 of the body 16 of the base portion 12. P The front surface 16 of the body 16 of the base portion 12 is defined by the substantially 'half-moon-shaped' portion 28b of the tongue portion 28. F .

[0288] Reference Figure 1A The fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 may further define a fluid guiding portion 36. In an example, the fluid guiding portion 36 may be defined by a funnel portion 36a formed by the base portion 12 and a fluid conduit portion 36b formed by the cap portion 14.

[0289] Reference Figure 3-7 The funnel portion 36a is generally formed by extending away from the rear surface 16 of the base portion 12. R The funnel body 38 is defined. Figure 3 As seen in FIG. 1 , the funnel body 38 may be formed by a distal surface 38 D and the proximal surface 38 P Defined, distal surface 38 D The distal end surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 may be partially D Limit. Continue to refer to Figure 3 The funnel body 38 may include a length L of the base portion 12 12 Part L 12-P The funnel body 38 may be formed by a width W 38 It is defined that when the funnel body 38 is D Towards the proximal surface 38 P Width when extended W 38 The length L of the funnel body 38 12-P At least a portion of the device is narrowed.

[0290] Reference Figure 7 The funnel body 38 is generally composed of an inner surface 38 I and outer surface 38 O The inner surface 38 I With respect to the rear surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 RThe funnel body 38 is arranged in an opposing relationship and forms a fluid flow passage 40 extending through the funnel body 38. The inlet of the fluid flow passage 40 is provided by an upstream opening 42 (see, for example, Figure 4 and 7 ) and a downstream opening 44 that permits fluid F to exit the funnel body 38 (see e.g. Figure 4 and 5 )form.

[0291] The fluid flow passage 40 may be formed by a 40 Or the arcuate channel of the radial geometric component is defined. In addition, Figure 7 As seen in the figure, the radius R 40 On the distal end surface 38 of the funnel body 38 D The vicinity may be larger such that the upstream opening 42 forms a larger opening or mouth portion of the fluid flow passage 40 of the funnel body 38 compared to the downstream opening 44 which may form a relatively smaller opening or throat portion of the fluid flow passage 40 of the funnel body 38 .

[0292] Reference Figure 3 and 5 , the rear surface 16 of the base portion 12 R A cap retaining portion 46 may also be defined. The cap retaining portion 46 may be formed by extending away from the rear surface 16 of the base portion 12. R The first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b may be respectively arranged near the opposite sides of the funnel body 38 and the proximal surface 38 of the funnel body 38. P Each of the first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b can be composed of a ramp surface 48 and a latch surface 50 ( Fig.15A )limited.

[0293] Reference Figure 8-13 The cap portion 14 of the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 includes a body 52 and a tongue receiving housing 54 connected to the body 52. ​​The body 52 is generally formed by a front surface 52 F , rear surface 52 R , distal surface 52 D , proximal surface 52 P , first side surface 52 S1 and the second side surface 52 S2 The cap portion 14 is further generally defined by a distal surface 52 D With the proximal surface 52 P The length L between 14 (See e.g. Figure 8-9 and 12-13). The cap portion 14 is even further substantially formed by a first side surface 52S1 The second side surface 52 S2 The width W between 14 (See e.g. Figure 8-11 )limited.

[0294] like Figure 8 As seen in FIG. 1 , the tongue receiving housing 54 can be defined by a proximal device retaining portion 56 and a flange portion 58, the flange portion 58 being defined by a first side wall flange section 58a, a second side wall flange section 58b, and an arcuate flange section 58c. The proximal device retaining portion 56 extends across the width W of the base portion 14. 14 The proximal end retaining portion 56 of the tool is connected to each of the first side wall flange section 58a, the second side wall flange section 58b and the arcuate flange section 58c. D Extends away from the arcuate flange section 58c by a length L 56 ; The length L of the proximal holding portion 56 of the device 56 may be substantially equal to the length L of the cap portion 14 14 half.

[0295] Continue to refer to Figure 8 , the first side wall flange section 58a extends away from the front surface 52 F and arranged close to the first side surface 52 S1 The second side wall flange section 58b extends away from the front surface 52 F and arranged close to the second side surface 52 S2 The arcuate flange section 58c extends away from the front surface 52 F and arranged close to the proximal surface 52 P .

[0296] Reference Fig.13 , the body 52 of the cap portion 14 may include a substantially constant thickness T 52 .like Figure 8-13 As can be seen in the figure, the substantially constant thickness T 52 The body 52 is defined as not being substantially planar, and thus the body 52 may form an arcuate channel 60 (see, e.g., Figure 8 , 10 , 13), the arcuate channel 60 extends from the front surface 52 of the main body 52 F The radius R 60 (See e.g. Fig.10 , 13 ) or radial geometric component, which results in the rear surface 52 of the body 52 defining the arcuate protrusion R .

[0297] Reference Fig. 9 and 12-13, the arcuate channel 60 can be formed along the length L of the cap portion 14 14 A portion of the body 52 is formed from the distal end surface 52 D Toward the proximal surface 52 of the main body 52 P Extended length L 60 In addition, generally L 60 ' shows the length L of the cap portion 14 14 The remaining portion, in which the arcuate channel 60 is not formed. Fig.13 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the length L of the arcuate channel 60 60 Part of L 60-P The length L along the proximal retaining portion 56 of the instrument 56 part of the extension.

[0298] Reference Figure 8-9 , a pair of protrusion receiving passages 62 extend through the thickness T of the main body 52 52 The pair of protrusion receiving passages 62 may be defined by a first protrusion receiving passage 62a and a second protrusion receiving passage 62b. The first protrusion receiving passage 62a and the second protrusion receiving passage 62b may be disposed adjacent to opposite sides of the arcuate channel 60, respectively.

[0299] like Fig.10 and 13 As seen in FIG. 1 , the cap portion 14 forms a fluid receiving space 64. The fluid receiving space 64 is generally formed by the inner surface 56 of the proximal retaining portion 56 of the device. I , the inner surface 58 of the arcuate flange section 58c I , an inner surface 58a of each of the first side wall flange section 58a and the second side wall flange section 58b I , 58b I The length L along the proximal holding portion 56 of the device 56 The extended portion and the front surface 52 F The length L along the proximal holding portion 56 of the device 56 Extension part 52 F-P limited.

[0300] Reference Figures 14A-15B , a method for forming a fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 is described. In a first optional step, as Fig.14A and 15A As can be seen, the fluid filter 11 can be inserted into the front surface 16 of the substantially half-moon-shaped portion 28b of the tongue portion 28. FThe fluid filter 11 may be sized and configured to be disposed in this position in a friction fit relationship. In addition, the fluid filter 11 may be sized to have a similar extension beyond the front surface 16 as the protrusion 30 and / or the fluid flow directing rib 34. F Height thickness T 11 , for example, the distance D 30 Less than thickness T 16 , or distance D 34 Less than thickness T 16 ( Figure 7 Although implementations of the fluid retention cartridge assembly 10 may include the fluid filter 11 , the fluid filter 11 may be omitted from the design of the fluid retention cartridge assembly 10 .

[0301] Although the implementation of the fluid retaining box assembly 10 can include one fluid filter 11 as described above, the fluid retaining box assembly 10 can include one or more second filters. In an example, the second filter or pre-filter 11a can be connected to the base portion 12. Because the pre-filter 11a is located upstream of the filter 11, the pre-filter 11a can be referred to as an upstream filter and the filter 11 can be referred to as a downstream filter. In an implementation, the pre-filter 11a can be disposed in the fluid flow passage 40 extending through the funnel body 38 near or close to the distal surface 38 of the funnel body 38. D Therefore, the pre-filter 11a can filter the 'dirty' fluid F before the fluid F passes through the fluid filter 11.

[0302] like Fig.14A and 15A As seen in FIG. 1 , the distal end surface 52 of the main body 52 of the cap portion 14 D The proximal surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 P Axially aligned. In addition, Fig.14A and 15A , the tongue portion 28 of the base portion 12 is axially aligned with the fluid receiving void 64 formed by the tongue receiving housing 54 of the cap portion 14. When the base portion 12 and the cap portion 14 are axially aligned as described above, the fluid flow passage 40 extending through the funnel body 38 of the base portion 12 is axially aligned with the arcuate channel 60 formed by the body 52 of the cap portion 14.

[0303] Reference Fig.14A , defining the proximal end 20a of the first side wall flange 20a of the base portion 12 P The first side surface 16 S1A notch may be defined corresponding to the distal end 58a of the first side wall flange section 58a of the cap portion 14. D Similarly, Fig.15A As seen in FIG. 1 , the proximal end 20b of the second side wall flange 20b defining the base portion 12 is P The second side surface 16 S2 A notch may be defined corresponding to the distal end 58b of the second side wall flange section 58b of the cap portion 14. D Defined protrusion.

[0304] In addition, if Fig.15A As can be seen in the drawing, when the base portion 12 and the cap portion 14 are axially aligned as described above, the cap retaining portion 46 defined by the first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b (of the base portion 12) is axially aligned with the pair of protrusion receiving passages 62 defined by the first protrusion receiving passages 62a and the second protrusion receiving passages 62b (of the cap portion 14). When the tongue portion 28 of the base portion 12 is inserted into the fluid receiving gap 64 of the cap portion 14, the ramp surface 48 of each of the first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b is aligned with the front surface 52 of the body 52. F (close to the distal surface 52 D ) contacts and is adjacent to the front surface 52 F The main body 52 (close to the distal end surface 52) of the cap portion 14 is formed by the inclined surface 48 of each of the first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b being aligned with the first protrusion receiving passage 62a and the second protrusion receiving passage 62b. D ) is deflected just above the latching surface 50 of each of the first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b for removably attaching the cap portion 14 to the base portion 12, such as Fig. 14B and 15B As seen in.

[0305] Reference Figure 16-17 , the base portion 12 and the cap portion 14 are shown in a removably attached configuration after the first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b are disposed within the first protrusion receiving passage 62a and the second protrusion receiving passage 62b. Fig.17 , the fluid flow passage 40 extending through the funnel body 38 of the base portion 12 is fluidly connected to the arcuate channel 60 formed by the body 52 of the cap portion 14 for forming an axial fluid conduit 66 of the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10. In addition, as Fig.17As seen in the figure, after the first protrusion 46a and the second protrusion 46b are arranged in the first protrusion receiving passage 62a and the second protrusion receiving passage 62b for removably attaching the base portion 12 to the cap portion 14, the tongue portion 28 of the base portion 12 is completely axially disposed in the fluid receiving gap 64 formed by the tongue receiving housing 54 of the cap portion 14, so that the tongue portion 28 fluidly divides the fluid receiving gap 64 into an upstream fluid receiving gap 64a and a downstream fluid receiving gap 64b. The upstream fluid receiving gap 64a is fluidly connected to the downstream fluid receiving gap 64b by means of the fluid flow passage 32 of the tongue portion 28.

[0306] If the fluid filter 11 is disposed in the downstream fluid receiving void 64b, any fluid F that flows from the upstream fluid receiving void 64a to the downstream fluid receiving void 64b via the fluid flow passage 32 will be filtered by the fluid filter 11; in such implementations, the upstream fluid receiving void 64a may be referred to as the unfiltered reservoir portion of the fluid receiving void 64 and the downstream fluid receiving void 64b may be referred to as the filtered reservoir portion of the fluid receiving void 64. However, if the fluid filter 11 is not disposed in the downstream fluid receiving void 64b, any fluid F that enters the downstream fluid receiving void 64b from the upstream fluid receiving void 64a via the fluid flow passage 32 of the tongue portion 28 will not be filtered.

[0307] Reference Figure 1A-1B At 18, a plurality of instruments I (eg, a plurality of test strip samples) are interfaced with the fluid holding cartridge assembly 10. The plurality of test strip samples I include three test strip samples, namely: a first test strip sample I1, a second test strip sample I2, and a third test strip sample I3.

[0308] like Figure 1A and 18 As seen in the drawings, a plurality of test strip samples I are provided into the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 by means of an inlet port 26 formed by the body 16 of the base portion 12 such that the plurality of test strip samples I are arranged within the plurality of instrument receiving channels 18. In an example, the plurality of test strip samples I may be arranged within the plurality of instrument receiving channels 18 as follows: (1) a first test strip sample I1 is arranged within the first instrument receiving channel 18a, (2) a second test strip sample I2 is arranged within the second instrument receiving channel 18b, and (3) a third test strip sample I3 is arranged within the third instrument receiving channel 18c.

[0309] Reference Fig.18 Once the proximal end I of each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 1P ,I 2P ,I 3PThe insertion of the plurality of test strip samples 1 into the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 is terminated by engaging corresponding protrusions 30a, 30c, 30e of the plurality of protrusions 30. For example, Fig.18 As seen in: (1) The proximal end I of the first test strip sample I1 1P The width W of the engagement with the base portion 12 12 The first portion W defining the first utensil receiving passage 18a 12-1 Center C 18a (See e.g. Figure 2 ) aligned with the first protrusion 30a, (2) the proximal end I2 of the second test strip sample I 2P The width W of the engagement with the base portion 12 12 The second portion W defining the second utensil receiving passage 18b 12-2 Center C 18b (See e.g. Figure 2 ) aligned with the third protrusion 30c, and (3) the proximal end I of the third test strip specimen I3 3P The width W of the engagement with the base portion 12 12 The third portion W defining the third utensil receiving passage 18c 12-3 Center C 18c (See e.g. Figure 2 ) is aligned with the fifth protrusion 30e.

[0310] like Fig.18 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , each of the test strip samples I1, I2, and I3 in the plurality of test strip samples I includes a width W I and length L I The width W of each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 I are approximately equal to the width W of the base portion 12 12 The width portion W of each of the plurality of tool storage channels 18a, 18b, 18c is defined in 12-1 , W 12-2 , W 12-3 (See e.g. Figure 2 ). Reference Figure 1B and 18 , selectively design the length L of each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 I The size of each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 is such that when the proximal end I 1P ,I 2P ,I 3P When a corresponding protrusion 30a, 30c, 30e of the plurality of protrusions 30 is engaged, the distal end I1 of each test strip specimen I1, I2, I3 can be accessed at the inlet port 26. 1D ,I 2D ,I 3DTo permit, for example, a user's finger to be inserted therein for grasping any of the first, second or third test strip samples I1, I2, I3, to insert or remove any of the first, second or third test strip samples I1, I2, I3 from any of the first, second or third instrument receiving channels 18a, 18b, 18c.

[0311] Reference Figure 1B and 19 -21A, inject fluid F into the fluid holding box assembly 10. Figure 1B , 19 As seen in 19A, the fluid F initially enters the axial fluid conduit 66 of the fluid retaining box assembly 10 via the upstream opening 42 of the funnel body 38 formed by the base portion 12. The fluid F passes through the fluid flow passage 40 of the funnel body 38 of the base portion 12 and then exits the fluid flow passage 40 of the funnel body 38 of the base portion 12 at the downstream opening 44. The fluid F then enters the arcuate channel 60 formed by the body 52 of the cap portion 14, which is in fluid communication with the fluid flow passage 40 of the funnel body 38 of the base portion 12 at the downstream opening 44, so that the fluid F ultimately reaches the upstream fluid receiving void 64a of the fluid receiving void 64. In an example, as shown in FIG. Fig.19A As seen in the figure, fluid F O The amount of fluid F (which is the amount of fluid F that exceeds the volume of the fluid receiving void 64) leaves the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 by overflowing over a fluid overflow edge 68, which may be formed by the front surface 52 of the body 52 of the cap portion 14. F The distal end surface 52 is formed D part of.

[0312] like Fig. 20 and 20A As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the fluid F can flow radially from the upstream fluid receiving void 64a of the fluid receiving void 64 and enter the downstream fluid receiving void 64b of the fluid receiving void 64. Fig. 20 and 20A As seen in FIG. 6 , the fluid filter 11 is optionally shown inserted into the downstream fluid receiving void 64 b for filtering the fluid F as the fluid F is radially transferred from the upstream fluid receiving void 64 a to the downstream fluid receiving void 64 b via the fluid filter 11 .

[0313] like Fig.21 and 21A As can be seen in FIG. 1 , after the fluid F reaches the downstream fluid receiving space 64b of the fluid receiving space 64 and moves around the protrusion 30, the fluid F and the proximal end I of each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 1P ,I 2P ,I 3PThe shape, number and arrangement of the plurality of protrusions 30 (e.g., along the Figure 2 The dotted line C 18a , C 18b , C 18c , C 22a , C 22b Centering) can help to evenly distribute the fluid F and selectively direct the fluid F around the proximal end I of each test strip specimen I1, I2, I3. 1P ,I 2P ,I 3P Flow is used to fully dose a sufficient amount of fluid F to each test strip sample I1, I2, I3.

[0314] Reference Fig. 22 In one use of the fluid holding cartridge assembly 10, after contact with the fluid F, each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 may include a result region R, which is configured to provide a detectable signal DS (e.g., a color change or intensity information) indicating the presence and / or concentration of a chemical analyte in the fluid (F) when the fluid (F) contacts the result region R; and the detectable signal DS may be detected by exposing each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 to an instrument analysis device 100 (see, e.g., Fig.23 ) of an optical reader 136 (see e.g. Figure 25-26 ), the instrument analysis device 100 can monitor, read and analyze the one or more test strip samples I1, I2, I3 during or after the one or more test strip samples I1, I2, I3 are in contact with the fluid F. As used herein, the detectable signal DS is associated with the result area R ( Figure 1A and 22 ) is associated with the color and / or intensity information within the fluid holding cartridge assembly 10. Each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 may be exposed to the optical reader 136 of the instrument analysis device 100 through the viewing window or viewing port 70 of the fluid holding cartridge assembly 10. Figure 1B The viewing window or viewing port 70 is defined by the absence of material in one or both of the base portion 12 and the cap portion 14. In the example, the viewing window or viewing port 70 is generally bounded by: (1) the front surface 16 of the body 16 of the base portion 12; F (2) the front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 F (3) the proximal end 24 of the distal end retaining portion 24 of the device P The front surface 16 of the main body 16 of the base portion 12 F, and (4) by the front surface 52 of the main body 52 of the cap portion 14 F A fluid overflow edge 68 is formed.

[0315] In other examples (such as Figure 7 and 13 As shown), the inner surface 38 of the funnel body 38 formed by the base portion 12 I , front surface 52 F The length L along the proximal holding portion 56 of the device 56 Extended part 52 F-P , and / or the inner surface 56 of the proximal retaining portion 56 of the device I Optional dried reagents 72 may be included disposed thereon. These reagents may include acids, bases, buffers, surfactants, dyes, colorimetric signaling agents, fluorescent signaling agents, antibodies, enzymes, receptors, antigens, cofactors, chemical filters, anticoagulants, blocking agents, chelating agents, and filter aids.

[0316] In yet another implementation, the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 may include a seal 74 (not shown), which may be formed of, for example, a foil material. The seal 74 may be disposed on the distal end surface 38 of the funnel body 38. D Above, adjacent to, near or proximate to the distal end surface 38 of the funnel body 38 D The seal 74 may be used for one or more purposes, such as preventing contamination of the inner surface 38 of the funnel body 38. I and / or retaining the dry reagent 72 on the inner surface 38 of the funnel body 38 of the base portion 12 I superior.

[0317] Reference Fig.23 , generally shown at 100, is an instrument analysis device 100. The instrument analysis device 100 is sized to receive one or more fluid holding cartridge assemblies 10, which have been described above in Figure 1A-22 is described in Fig.23 As seen in the figure, the one or more fluid holding box assemblies 10 may be, for example: a first fluid holding box assembly 101; a second fluid holding box assembly 102; and a third fluid holding box assembly 103. The first fluid holding box assembly 101, the second fluid holding box assembly 102, and the third fluid holding box assembly 103 may be collectively referred to as a plurality of fluid holding box assemblies 10 P .

[0318] The exemplary first fluid holding cartridge assembly 101, the exemplary second fluid holding cartridge assembly 102, and the exemplary third fluid holding cartridge assembly 103 that can interface with the instrument analysis device 100 can be substantially similar to those described above in Figure 1A-22Although the following disclosure relates to exemplary fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 interfacing with instrument analysis device 100, instrument analysis device 100 is not limited to interfacing with exemplary fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103; thus, the functionality of instrument analysis device 100 may remain the same when other fluid retaining cartridge assemblies having different shapes or sizes are interfacing with instrument analysis device 100.

[0319] Combined with the above Figure 1A-22 As described above, the exemplary fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 are each sized to accommodate a plurality of instruments I, such as, for example, a first test strip sample I1, a second test strip sample I2, and a third test strip sample I3. In addition, because the instrument analysis device 100 is designed to be sized to accommodate more than one fluid retaining box assembly (e.g., three fluid retaining box assemblies 101, 102, 103) and if each of the first fluid retaining box assembly 101, the second fluid retaining box assembly 102, and the third fluid retaining box assembly 103 is respectively loaded with multiple instruments I, such as, for example, a first test strip sample I1, a second test strip sample I2, and a third test strip sample I3, then each of the first fluid retaining box assembly 101, the second fluid retaining box assembly 102, and the third fluid retaining box assembly 103 can be referred to as accommodating multiple test strip samples I1-I3 (respectively defined by, for example: a first plurality of test strip samples I1-I3 accommodated by the first fluid retaining box assembly 101; a second plurality of test strip samples I1-I3 accommodated by the second fluid retaining box assembly 102; and a third plurality of test strip samples I1-I3 accommodated by the third fluid retaining box assembly 103). Therefore, when in use, the instrument analysis device 100 can simultaneously, sequentially, selectively or randomly analyze all or any test strip samples I1, I2, I3 fastened by all or any of the first fluid retaining box assembly 101, the second fluid retaining box assembly 102 and the third fluid retaining box assembly 103.

[0320] In an example, simultaneously analyzing a first plurality of test strip samples I1-I3, a second plurality of test strip samples I1-I3, and a third plurality of test strip samples I1-I3 by the instrument analyzing device 100 can speed up the analysis of what could otherwise be an analysis of a plurality of test strip samples I1-I3 (if the instrument analyzing device 100 is configured to accommodate only one fluid cartridge retaining assembly). In an example, the instrument analyzing device 100 can simultaneously perform analysis of one instrument (e.g., first test strip sample I1) among the first plurality of test strip samples I1-I3, the second plurality of test strip samples I1-I3, and the third plurality of test strip samples I1-I3; thus, when desired, a user can, in one case, comparatively study three unique category studies (e.g., which are associated with a unique sample, a unique sample is associated with each first test strip sample I1 of the following: the first plurality of test strip samples I1-I3; the second plurality of test strip samples I1-I3; and the third plurality of test strip samples I1-I3) of a category study (e.g., a category test associated with a common sample type, the common sample type is associated with each first test strip sample I1 but not each of the second test strip samples I2 and each of the third test strip samples I3).

[0321] Reference Fig.23 and 24A -24B, the tool analysis device 100 includes a support member 102 and a housing 104 connected to the support member 102. Fig.25 As seen in FIG. 1 , each of the support member 102 and the housing 104 may respectively form one or more fastener passages 106, 108 corresponding to one another, the fastener passages 106, 108 being sized to receive one or more fasteners 110. The one or fasteners 110 permit selective attachment of the housing 104 to the support member 102.

[0322] Reference Fig.23 , 24A -24B, 25 and 26, the support member 102 can define an outer surface 112 and an inner surface 114 (see e.g. Figure 25-26 ). Similarly, the housing 104 can define an outer surface 116 and an inner surface 118 (see, e.g. Figure 25-26 The inner surface 114 of the support member 102 and the inner surface 118 of the housing 104 cooperate to form a cavity 120 (see, e.g. Figure 25-26 ).

[0323] like Fig.23 , 24A As seen in FIGS. 24B, 25, 26, and 32-34, the instrument analysis device 100 may further include a cartridge receiver 122 disposed within the cavity 120. In an example, the cartridge receiver 122 is secured to the inner surface 114 of the support member 102.

[0324] Reference Fig.23 , 26 and 32, the cartridge receiver 122 includes a cartridge receiver 122 that defines at least one first opening 126 and at least one second opening 128 (see, e.g. Fig.32 ) body 124. The at least one first opening 126 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 extends through the thickness T of the housing 104. 104 (See e.g. Fig.26 ) of the cartridge receiver passage 130 (see e.g. Fig.23 ), the housing 104 is bounded by an outer surface 116 of the housing 104 and an inner surface 118 of the housing 104. Fig.26 As seen in FIG. 1 , a cartridge receiver passage 130 formed by the housing 104 permits access to a cartridge receiver 122 substantially contained within the cavity 120 .

[0325] Reference Fig.23 , at least one first opening 126 of the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 can be defined by: a first cartridge receiving opening 126a; a second cartridge receiving opening 126b; and a third cartridge receiving opening 126c. The first cartridge receiving opening 126a can be sized to removably insert the first fluid holding cartridge assembly 101 into the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. The second cartridge receiving opening 126b can be sized to removably insert the second fluid holding cartridge assembly 102 into the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. The third cartridge receiving opening 126c can be sized to removably insert the third fluid holding cartridge assembly 103 into the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122.

[0326] Reference Fig.25 In one embodiment, at least one second opening 128 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 is contained within the cavity 120 and is not accessible from any opening or passageway formed by the housing 104. Fig.25 and 32 As seen in FIG. 1 , at least one second opening 128 may be defined by a first cartridge observation window 128a, a second cartridge observation window 128b, and a third cartridge observation window 128c. In one embodiment, each of the first cartridge observation window 128a, the second cartridge observation window 128b, and the third cartridge observation window 128c may include an observation window 70 corresponding to each of the first fluid holding cartridge assembly 101, the second fluid holding cartridge assembly 102, and the third fluid holding cartridge assembly 103 (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 1B ) shape.

[0327] Reference Figure 25-26The instrument analysis device 100 may further include an imaging device support member 132 disposed within the cavity 120. In an example, the imaging device support member 132 is fastened to the inner surface 114 of the support member 102 or integrally extends from the inner surface 114 of the support member 102.

[0328] In an example, the imaging device support member 132 supports an imaging device integrated circuit (IC) 134 including an imaging device 136. Fig.26 The imaging device support member 132 is intentionally sized to position the imaging device 136 (and corresponding imaging device IC 134) a distance D from the inner surface 114 of the support member 102. 136 . Reference Figure 25-26 , the distance D 136 An area sufficient for arranging the imaging device 136 to be aligned with at least one second opening 128a, 128b, and 128c formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 (see, e.g., Fig.25 and 33 The dashed box R in 128 ) is aligned. In other words, the imaging device 136 is arranged to capture image data 141 ( Fig.35 ).

[0329] By interfacing the imaging device 136 with the region R of at least one second opening 128 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 128 Aligned, imaging device 136 of imaging device IC 134 is able to see / observe / image / read detectable signal DS formed by one or more of test strip samples I1, I2, I3 after the one or more test strip samples I1, I2, I3 are contacted with fluid F (see, e.g. Fig. 22 ). And use the field of view (dashed box R 128 ), the imaging device 136 can capture image data 141 from any and all test strip samples I in the cartridge assembly 10 loaded into the cartridge receiver 122. For example, the image data 141 captured by the imaging device 136 may include a detectable signal DS (e.g., color and / or intensity information) from a result region R located on one or more test strip samples I1, I2, I3 in contact with the fluid F. In an example, the imaging device 136 can be a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. In other examples, a lens (not shown) can be mounted to the CMOS sensor 136 or arranged above the CMOS sensor 136.

[0330] Reference Fig.26, the appliance analyzing device 100 may further include an integrated circuit support member 138 disposed within the cavity 120. In an example, the integrated circuit support member 138 is secured to or integral with the inner surface 114 of the support member 102. The integrated circuit support member 138 may secure or support an appliance analyzing device integrated circuit (IC) 140. In an example, the appliance analyzing device IC 140 may include embedded Linux software and a 1-GHz Sitara processor.

[0331] Reference Fig.35 , the instrument analyzer IC 140 is coupled to the imaging device IC 134 via a communication link 142 (e.g., a flexible cable) for communicating one or more readings (e.g., any of the detectable signal DS, the barcode B, etc.) in the image data 141 captured by the imaging device 136 to the instrument analyzer IC 140. Once the instrument analyzer IC 140 receives the one or more readings (e.g., any of the detectable signal DS, the barcode B, etc.) in the image data 141, the instrument analyzer IC 140 can analyze and subsequently interpret the one or more readings (e.g., any of the detectable signal DS, the barcode B, etc.) for the user.

[0332] Return to reference Fig.23 and 24A -24B, in addition to the cartridge receiver passage 130, one or both of the support member 102 and the housing 104 may further define a thickness T extending through the support member 102. 102 (See e.g. Fig.26 ) or the thickness T of the housing 104 104 Similar to the cartridge receiver passage 130, the plurality of other passages 144-150 may extend through the thickness T of the support member 102. 102 Or the thickness T of the housing 104 104 The plurality of other pathways 144-150 may include, but are not limited to: a user interface pathway 144; one or more data input pathways 146; one or more data input / output pathways 148; one or more power pathways 150, etc. In addition, one or both of the support member 102 and the housing 104 may form a fluid overflow pathway 152 (see Fig.26 ).

[0333] like Fig.23 and 24A-24B, user interface passage 144 can be sized to permit access to a user interface 153 displayed on screen 154. Screen 154 can be a touch screen, which can be disposed within cavity 120. At least a portion of the perimeter of touch screen 154 can be disposed adjacent to or otherwise secured to inner surface 118 of housing 104 so that a user can access and read touch screen 154 via user interface passage 144. Fig.35 , the touch screen 154 can be communicatively coupled to one or more of the imaging device IC 134 and the instrument analyzer IC 140 via a communication link 156. In some examples, the data processing hardware 143 at the instrument analyzer IC 140 executes a user interface 153 on the screen 154 for displaying test results 190 associated with one or more test strip samples 1.

[0334] In an example, the touch screen 154 may be a capacitive touch screen. The user interface may be a graphical user interface 153 displayed on the touch screen 154 for communicating the status of the test steps being performed, the test results 190, etc. In addition, the user may interact with the graphical user interface 153 by touching the touch screen 154. For example, the user may provide data input or selection to the software executed by the data processing hardware 143 of the appliance analyzer IC 140.

[0335] like Fig.23 , 24A -24B and 27, one or more data input passages 146 can be sized to allow access to an optical scanner 158. In an example, the optical scanner 158 can be permitted to scan features or barcode data (e.g., one or more barcodes B) of items (e.g., one or more of the test strip samples I1, I2, I3) disposed outside of the cavity 120. Fig.35, the optical scanner 158 may be communicatively coupled to one or more of the imaging device IC 134 and the instrument analyzer IC 140 via a communication link 160. In some examples, the data processing hardware 143 receives barcode data B associated with one or more of the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 scanned by the optical scanner 158; determines a unique test strip identifier 147 for each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 based on the scanned barcode data; and retrieves test information 149 associated with each of the one or more of the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 from the memory hardware 145 (which communicates with the data processing hardware 143). The test information 149 may include at least one of the test strip sample type, the test / analysis type, the desired temperature of the fluid F, the duration of the analysis, and any other information that may be relevant. As used herein, the analysis duration can correspond to a time threshold or specified time period indicating a minimum duration that fluid F needs to be in contact with result area R of the test strip sample I associated with the obtained test information 149 before a corresponding test result 19 (e.g., the presence and / or concentration of a chemical analyte within fluid F) is obtained.

[0336] Additional uses of the optical scanner 158 may include scanning sample ID and batch ID data. The sample ID is generated by the user to identify the sample fluid F used. Additional uses of the optical scanner 158 may include scanning test location information, user information, and any additional information that may be used for testing. The optical scanner 158 may also be used to change the mode of the reader (i.e., demonstration mode), unlock new features, or be used as a security feature to unlock the reader or a specific reader function when the user scans a specific bar code.

[0337] like Fig. 24B As seen in FIG. 1 , the pathway 148 may be sized to accommodate any type of data input / output port 162, such as, for example, one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports 162a. Additionally, the appliance analyzer IC 140 may also include an onboard USB port; in an implementation, the onboard USB port may be connected to a Wi-Fi dongle (not shown) to permit wireless communication with the appliance analyzer IC 140 (to, for example, permit wireless uploading of test results or downloading of software updates). Fig.35 , one or more data input / output ports 162 may be communicatively coupled to one or more of the imaging device IC 134 and the instrument analysis device IC 140 via a communication link 164 .

[0338] Although the data input / output pathway 148 may be sized to accommodate one or more USB ports 162a, the data input / output pathway 148 may be sized to accommodate other types of data ports 162. In an example, the data input / output pathway 148 may be sized to accommodate one or more secure digital (SD) card ports 162b. Thus, the data ports 162 may include memory hardware 151 external to the appliance analyzer IC 140, in addition to or in lieu of the memory hardware 151 located at the appliance analyzer IC 140. In another example, the data input / output pathway 148 may be sized to accommodate an Ethernet port 162c for hard-wiring the appliance analyzer IC 140 to a router / wireless router, such as an Internet interface, in the event that Wi-Fi is not available.

[0339] Reference Fig.23 and 24A , one or more power pathways 150 may be sized to permit insertion of a power line 166 (see e.g. Fig.35 ). The power line 166 may couple a power source P (e.g., a wall outlet, a battery, etc.) to one or more of the imaging device IC 134 and the appliance analyzer IC 140. Although the power line 166 may provide power to one or more of the imaging device IC 134 and the appliance analyzer IC 140, in some examples, one or more of the imaging device IC 134 and the appliance analyzer IC 140 may include a battery (not shown) for powering one or more of the imaging device IC 134 and the appliance analyzer IC 140.

[0340] Reference Fig.26 The fluid overflow passage 152 may be formed proximate to or substantially below the cartridge receiver 122 to allow excess fluid F to flow through the cartridge receiver 122. O Discharged from the instrument analysis device 100. In one embodiment, the fluid F O Excess fluid F is drained from the instrument analysis device 100 by gravity. O The fluid may: (1) flow past the fluid overflow edge 68 of each of the first fluid retention cartridge assembly 101, the second fluid retention cartridge assembly 102, and the third fluid retention cartridge assembly 103 (see, e.g., Figure 1B ), (2) flows out of the cartridge receiver 122 and then (3) flows out of the fluid overflow passage 152.

[0341] Reference Figure 28-30 The instrument analysis device 100 may further include at least one cartridge heater 168. The at least one cartridge heater 168 may be disposed on a base portion 170 of the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 (see, e.g., Figure 25-26 ) or fastened to the base portion 170. The base portion 170 of the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 may be positioned opposite to the at least one first opening 126 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122.

[0342] At least one cartridge heater 168 is defined by a body 172 having a base portion 172a, a front portion 172b, and a rear portion 172c. The body 172 can be an aluminum die cast cube containing a heating band with a thermistor embedded in thermal epoxy. Optionally, the aluminum die cast cube can also accommodate a small vibration motor (not shown) that can apply vibrations to the exemplary fluid holding cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103 for mixing and agitating the fluid F contained in the exemplary fluid holding cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103.

[0343] Each of the base portion 172a, the front portion 172b, and the rear portion 172c is defined by a box support surface 174a, 174b, 174c. In an example, the box support surface 174a, 174b of each of the base portion 172a and the front portion 172b can be defined by a substantially flat or planar surface. In another example, the box support surface 174c of the rear portion 172c can include a box support surface 174a, 174b, 174c defined by a radius R 172c (See e.g. Fig.30 ) is a substantially flat or planar surface that is partially interrupted by a curved or arcuate surface defined by.

[0344] The box support surfaces 174a, 174b, 174c of each of the base portion 172a, the front portion 172b, and the rear portion 172c define a box receiving gap 176. Fig.29 As seen in FIG. 1 , the cartridge receiving gap 176 is formed in part by the cartridge support surface 174a extending away from the base portion 172a by a distance D 172b The box support surface 174b of the front portion 172b is defined. Fig.29 The box receiving gap 176 is further partially formed by the box support surface 174a extending away from the base portion 172a by a distance D 172c The distance D is defined by the box support surface 174c of the rear portion 172c. 172b Can be greater than distance D 172c In addition, if Fig.30 As seen in FIG. 1 , the box receiving gap 176 is further partially separated from the box supporting surface 174c of the rear portion 172c by a distance D 172a The box support surface 174b of the front portion 172b is defined.

[0345] like Fig.31As seen in FIG. 1 , the cartridge receiving gap 176 defined by the cartridge supporting surfaces 174a, 174b, 174c of each of the base portion 172a, the front portion 172b, and the rear portion 172c can be sized to receive the cap portion 14 of at least the exemplary fluid retaining cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103. In the example, the distance D defining the cartridge supporting surface 174b of the front portion 172b is 172b The length L of the proximal retaining portion 56 of the device may be sized to extend across at least the tongue receiving housing 54 of the cap portion 14. 56 (See e.g. Figure 8 ). In the example, the distance D between the box support surface 174c of the rear portion 172c is defined 172c The arcuate passage 60 may be sized to extend across at least the length L of the body 52 of the cap portion 14. 60 (See e.g. Fig. 9 ). In addition, the radius R of the curved or arcuate surface portion of the box support surface 174c defining the rear portion 172c is 172c The front surface 52 of the body 52 of the cap portion 14 may be sized to receive and correspond to the front surface 52 of the body 52 extending to define the arcuate channel 60. F The radius R 60 (See e.g. Fig.10 , 13 ) or radial geometric component.

[0346] Once the cap portion 14 is disposed within the cartridge receiving gap 176 of the body 172 of the at least one cartridge heater 168, a portion of the outer surface of the body 52 of the cap portion 14 can be disposed adjacent to the cartridge supporting surface 174a, 174b, 174c of each of the base portion 172a, the front portion 172b, and the rear portion 172c of the body 172 of the at least one cartridge heater 168 for thermally transferring heat from the at least one cartridge heater 168 to the body 52 of the cap portion 14 (and ultimately to the fluid F contained within the body 52 of the cap portion 14). In an example, the proximal surface 52 of the body 52 of the cap portion 14 is P The cartridge support surface 174a may be disposed adjacent to or proximate to the base portion 172a of the body 172 of at least one cartridge heater 168. In addition, in the example, the front surface 52 defined by the proximal end retaining portion 56 of the tongue receiving housing 54 of the cap portion 14 may be provided adjacent to or proximate to the cartridge support surface 174a of the base portion 172a of the body 172 of the at least one cartridge heater 168. F The cartridge support surface 174b may be disposed adjacent to or proximate to the front portion 172b of the body 172 of at least one cartridge heater 168. Even further, in the example, the rear surface 52 defined by the body 52 of the cap portion 14 may be provided adjacent to or proximate to the front portion 172b of the body 172 of the at least one cartridge heater 168. RThe box support surface 174c can be configured to be adjacent to or proximate to the rear portion 172c of the body 172 of at least one box heater 168.

[0347] After the cap portion 14 is disposed within the cartridge receiving gap 176 of the body 172 of at least one cartridge heater 168 as described above and the body 52 of the cap portion 14 contacts the at least one cartridge heater 168 as described above, the corresponding contact therebetween acts as a heat transfer area to thereby thermally couple the test strip sample 1 at the cap portion with the at least one cartridge heater 168. The front and rear surfaces 52 defined by the body 52 of the cap portion 14 are R and 52 F The fluid F is preheated before it flows through the fluid flow path 32 formed by the flange 28 of the base portion 12. Thereafter, the proximal device holding portion 56 of the tongue receiving housing 54 of the cap portion 14 heats the fluid F before and after it contacts the test strip samples I1, I2, I3. R and 52 F And the ability to provide heat to both the tongue receiving housing 54 of the cap portion 14 and the proximal device retaining portion 56 can ensure that the fluid F has a more consistent testing temperature.

[0348] Reference Figure 32-34 And as described above, the base portion 170 of the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 (receiving or housing the at least one cartridge heater 168) is positioned axially opposite the at least one first opening 126 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. Figure 31-32 As seen in FIG. 1 , at least one box heater 168 may include: a first box heater 168a; a second box heater 168b; and a third box heater 168c. In an example, the first box heater 168a corresponds to, is positioned opposite to, and is axially aligned with the first box receiving opening 126a of at least one first opening 126. In another example, the second box heater 168b corresponds to, is positioned opposite to, and is axially aligned with the second box receiving opening 126b of at least one first opening 126. In yet another example, the third box heater 168c corresponds to, is positioned opposite to, and is axially aligned with the third box receiving opening 126c of at least one first opening 126.

[0349] Reference Figure 28-3135, each of the first cartridge heater 168a, the second cartridge heater 168b, and the third cartridge heater 168c may be connected to the instrument analyzer IC 140 via one or more communication links 178. The one or more communication conduits 178 may permit the instrument analyzer IC 140 to selectively activate any of the first cartridge heater 168a, the second cartridge heater 168b, and the third cartridge heater 168c. Selectively activating any of the first cartridge heater 168a, the second cartridge heater 168b, and the third cartridge heater 168c may be caused by software / instructions stored in the memory hardware 145 and executed by the data processing hardware 143 of the instrument analyzer IC 140.

[0350] In an example, selectively activating any one of the first box heater 168a, the second box heater 168b, and the third box heater 168c can be caused by different test types (e.g., specified by test information 149) carried out on the first fluid holding box assembly 101 containing a first plurality of test strip samples I1-I3, the second fluid holding box assembly 102 containing a second plurality of test strip samples I1-I3, and the third fluid holding box assembly 103 containing a third plurality of test strip samples I1-I3, and different test types can each require different test temperatures. For example, the test information 149 associated with each test strip sample I1-I3 held in one of the fluid holding box assemblies 101-103 can specify the desired temperature of the fluid (F) held therein. Therefore, each of the first box heater 168a, the second box heater 168b, and the third box heater 168c associated with each of the first, second, and third box receiving openings 126a, 126b, 126c can be independently controlled to perform this type of non-similar temperature test.

[0351] Return to reference Figure 28-30, the front part 172b and the rear part 172c of the body 172 are not connected by the corresponding side parts. The lack of side parts reduces the amount of heat transfer between the adjacent box heaters 168a-168b and 168b-168c and the adjacent fluids contained therein to keep the box assembly 101,102,103. By reducing the heat transfer between the adjacent fluids to keep the box assembly 101,102,103, the independent heating of each fluid to keep the box assembly 101,102,103 can be more accurately controlled. Therefore, the box heaters 168a-c can be selectively activated independently of each other so that each heating device 168a-c is thermally coupled to the corresponding removably inserted fluid to keep the box assembly 10 (e.g., assembly 101) and is thermally isolated from one or more other fluids to keep the box assembly 10 (e.g., assemblies 102 and 103). In addition, each heating device (e.g., each box heater 168a-c) can be selectively deactivated after a specified time period specified by the test information 149. Here, the prescribed time period may refer to the analysis duration that the fluid (F) is in contact with the result region R on one or more test strip specimens I1-I3, or the prescribed time period may refer to the duration required to heat the fluid (F) to a desired temperature.

[0352] Activating any of the first cartridge heater 168a, the second cartridge heater 168b, and the third cartridge heater 168c causes any of the first cartridge heater 168a, the second cartridge heater 168b, and the third cartridge heater 168c to generate heat. The heat generated by any of the first cartridge heater 168a, the second cartridge heater 168b, and the third cartridge heater 168c can be directed to any portion of the fluid-retaining cartridge assembly 10 (e.g., the cap portion 14) disposed within a cartridge receiving gap 176 defined by cartridge support surfaces 174a, 174b, 174c of each of the base portion 172a, the front portion 172b, and the rear portion 172c of the body 172 of at least one cartridge heater 168.

[0353] Reference Fig.35 , the appliance analyzing device 100 may also include a fan 180 located within the cavity 120. The fan 180 may be secured to one or more of the inner surface 114 of the support member 102 and the inner surface 118 of the housing 104. The fan 180 may include a motor (not shown) connected to the appliance analyzing device IC 140 via a communication link 182. The motor associated with the fan 180 may be activated or deactivated after the appliance analyzing device IC 140 sends an activation or deactivation signal to the fan 180 via the communication link 182.

[0354] Activation of the fan 180 may occur in order to cool one or more components located within the cavity 120 of the instrument analyzing device 100. The one or more components within the cavity 120 that may require cooling may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: the imaging device IC 134, the instrument analyzing device IC 140, and the at least one cartridge heater 168. In some implementations, if, for example, the instrument analyzing device IC 140 determines (e.g., senses) that the at least one cartridge heater 168 exceeds a predetermined test temperature (i.e., a desired temperature specified by the test information 149), the fan 180 may be automatically activated for the purpose of lowering or maintaining the at least one cartridge heater 168 at or below the predetermined test temperature. This determination by the instrument analyzing device IC 140 may occur in response to a temperature and / or humidity sensor 181 positioned within the cavity 120 and communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzing device IC 140 via a communication link 183.

[0355] The appliance analysis device 100 may include other components not shown in the figure. For example, the appliance analysis device 100 may also include a vibration motor to provide tactile feedback during testing or for stirring the fluid F within any fluid holding box assembly 10. In another example, the appliance analysis device 100 may also include an on-board three-axis accelerometer for indicating to the user whether the appliance analysis device 100 is not level, so as to mitigate adverse conditions that may negatively affect the flow of fluid within any fluid holding box assembly 10. In yet another example, the appliance analysis device 100 may also include antennas or sensors to obtain various functions related to global positioning system (GPS), radio frequency identification (RFID) recognition, barometer readings, etc.; such additional antennas or sensors can provide additional information about test conditions that can be considered during analysis.

[0356] A method of using the appliance analysis device 100 is now described. First, Fig.23 As seen in FIG. 1 , multiple fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 10 may be provided. P At least one fluid holding box assembly 101, 102, 103 in the embodiment is loaded with one or more of the test strip samples I1, I2, I3. Figures 24A-24B , 25, 26, then the plurality of fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 10 may be assembled, for example, P At least one fluid holding cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103 in the cartridge receiver 122 is inserted through at least one first opening 126 (e.g., 126a, 126b, and 126c) of the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122 to hold the plurality of fluid holding cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 loaded with test strip samples I1, I2, I3. P At least one of the fluid holding cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 is connected to the instrument analysis device 100. Alternatively, multiple fluid holding cartridge assemblies 10P After at least one of the fluid holding cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 has been interfaced with the instrument analysis device 100, the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 are loaded into the plurality of fluid holding cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103. P In at least one fluid holding box assembly 101, 102, 103. In one embodiment, as Figure 1B As seen in FIG. 1 , multiple fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 10 may be provided. P Each of the at least one fluid holding cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103 in the fluid holding cartridge assembly is dosed with a certain amount of fluid F, and when necessary, multiple fluid holding cartridge assemblies 10 P Each of the fluid holding cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 in the apparatus is disposed within the instrument analysis device 100. Alternatively, the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 may be loaded into the plurality of fluid holding cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103. P Before at least one of the fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 is added to the plurality of fluid retaining cartridge assemblies 10 P A certain amount of fluid F is dosed.

[0357] In the case of multiple fluid holding cartridge assemblies 10 P The instrument analyzer 100 is actuated before, during, or after dosing a certain amount of fluid F loaded at each of at least one fluid holding cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103 in the apparatus, so that the instrument analyzer 100 can monitor, read, and analyze one or more of the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 before, during, and after dosing. The actuation of the instrument analyzer 100 may include one or more of the imaging devices 136 to obtain one or more images I of one or more of the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 (see, e.g., Figure 25-26 ) and may include activating at least one box heater 168.

[0358] In the example, Figure 25-26 As seen in FIG. 1 , the imaging device 136 of the imaging device IC 134 can continuously capture image data 141 of one or more of the test strip samples I1, I2, I3. The image data 141 captured by the imaging device 136 is communicated from the imaging device IC 134 to the instrument analyzer IC 140 by means of a communication link 142.

[0359] Return to reference Fig.35, the data processing hardware 143 of the instrument analyzer IC 140 can execute a test strip sample recognition algorithm to detect one or more test strip samples I received by the cartridge receiver 122 based on the image data 141 received by the imaging device 136. For example, the test strip sample recognition algorithm can determine when the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 are disposed in a region R of at least one second opening 128 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. 128 149 for the purpose of performing an analysis routine for each detected corresponding test strip sample I1, I2, I3 based on the corresponding test information 149. In one embodiment, the test strip sample recognition algorithm can continuously determine whether the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 are disposed in the region R of the at least one second opening 128 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. 128 within, for the purpose of performing an analysis routine for each corresponding test strip sample I1, I2, I3 detected.

[0360] In some cases, the test strip sample recognition algorithm analyzes multiple cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 passing through corresponding second openings 128a, 128b, 128c independently of each other to detect whether one or more test strip samples I are disposed in each independent cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103. For example, the data processing hardware 143 can select any cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103 and use the image data 141 to detect whether one or more test strip samples I are disposed in the selected port / cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103 independently of other cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103. Thus, the imaging device 136 can capture an area R directed toward at least one second opening 128 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. 128The image data 141 of the apparatus analysis device IC140 can be used by the data processing hardware 143 of the apparatus analysis device IC140 to monitor the presence of one or more test strip samples I arranged therein in each cartridge assembly 101, 102, 103 individually using the image data 141. Therefore, the presence of the test strip sample I can be monitored individually in each cartridge assembly 10 that has been inserted into the cartridge receiver 122, or the presence of the test strip sample I can be monitored simultaneously in two or more cartridge assemblies 10. Similarly, each cartridge assembly 10 that has been inserted into the cartridge receiver 122 can be heated independently and / or analyzed independently from any other cartridge assembly 10 to capture image data 141 (for the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 in the cartridge assembly 10); or two or more cartridge assemblies 10 can be heated simultaneously and / or the captured image data 141 can be analyzed simultaneously (for the test strip samples I1, I2, I3 in those cartridge assemblies 10). In addition, the test strip sample recognition algorithm can analyze the image data 141 received from the imaging device 136 to identify one or more identification marks disposed on each detected test strip sample I1, I2, I3. The identification marks may include bar code data B, alphanumeric data #, or color data (see Figure 1A ). Thereafter, the data processing hardware 143 may determine the unique test strip identifier 147 associated with each detected test strip sample I1, I2, I3 based on the identified identification mark, and retrieve the test information 149 associated with each detected test strip sample I1, I2, I3 using the corresponding unique test strip identifier 147. Here, the memory hardware 145 contains a database / data storage that associates the unique test strip identifier 147 with the corresponding test information 149. The manufacturer of the test strip sample may provide the test strip information 149. The memory hardware 145 may be internally (e.g., associated with the instrument analyzer IC 140) or externally connected as one of the data input / output devices 162. Additionally or alternatively, the optical scanner 158 may scan the bar code data B and provide the scanned bar code data B to the data processing hardware 143 for determining the unique test strip identifier 147. Here, the unique test strip identifier 147 of the test strip sample I1 , I2 , I3 may be obtained before the test strip sample I1 , I2 , I3 is inserted into the instrument analyzing device 100 .

[0361] Continue to refer to Fig.35, the data processing hardware 143 can perform an analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample I for each detected test strip sample I1, I2, I3 based on the corresponding test information 149 after the test strip sample I contacts the fluid F. The analysis routine is configured to analyze the detectable signal DS (e.g., color change or intensity information) within the result area R located on the corresponding test strip sample I based on the image data 141, and determine a test result 190 indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte in the fluid F. Each test result 190 can be marked with a corresponding unique test strip identifier 147 and stored in the memory hardware 145. In some examples, the data processing hardware 143 displays the test result 190 of each detected test strip sample I on the graphical user interface 153 executed on the touch screen 154.

[0362] In some implementations, the data processing hardware 143 automatically performs an analysis routine on the corresponding detected test strip sample I in response to obtaining the test information 149 associated with the test strip sample I. In other implementations, after obtaining the test information 149, the data processing hardware 143 analyzes the image data 141 received from the imaging device 136 to measure the level of the fluid (F) held by the corresponding removably inserted fluid holding cartridge assembly 10, and determines whether the measured level of the fluid F is at least a threshold fluid level. The test information 149 may specify the threshold fluid level, wherein the threshold fluid level is the amount of fluid F sufficient to contact the result area R on each detected test strip sample I held by the corresponding fluid holding cartridge assembly 10 to initiate a chemical reaction (if any) with the chemical analyte. Thereafter, the data processing hardware 143 may perform an analysis routine on each detected test strip sample I held by the corresponding fluid holding cartridge assembly 10 in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid is at least the threshold fluid level. In some examples, the data processing hardware 143 starts a timer in response to the measured level of the fluid F being at least a threshold fluid level. In these examples, when the timer satisfies the analysis duration specified by the test information 149, the analysis routine determines a test result 190 associated with each tested test strip sample 1 retained by the corresponding fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10. In some configurations, the cap portion 14 of the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10 is translucent so that the fluid F is visible through the second opening 126 of the cartridge 122 and can therefore be measured from the image data 141 captured by the imaging device 136.

[0363] Similar to how the test strip sample recognition algorithm analyzes multiple cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 independently of one another for detecting the presence of a test strip sample I, data processing hardware 143 may perform an analysis routine on each detected test strip sample I held by a corresponding selected fluid holding cartridge assembly 10 independently of other detected test strip samples I held by other corresponding fluid holding cartridge assemblies 10. Thus, although cartridge assemblies 101, 102, 103 may each hold at least one test strip sample I detected by the recognition algorithm, the analysis routine may analyze the at least one test strip sample I held by cartridge assembly 102 independently of at least one test strip sample I held by other cartridge assemblies 101, 103. For example, the analysis routine may analyze the sample I within cartridge assembly 102 while waiting for the measured fluid level of the fluid within at least one of the other cartridge assemblies 101, 103 to reach a threshold fluid level. In another case, the analysis routine may analyze the sample I held within the cartridge assembly 102 while the recognition algorithm is continuously monitoring the presence of the test strip samples I in the other cartridge assemblies 101, 103. In some implementations, the analysis routine simultaneously analyzes the test strip samples I held by at least two different cartridge assemblies 10.

[0364] In an example, activating at least one cartridge heater 168, for example, during a period of time, causes at least one cartridge heater 168 to impart heat to at least, for example, the cap portion 14 of the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10, which may also contain fluid F. If a particular test requires that the fluid contained therein be heated to a desired temperature specified by the test information 149, the imparted heat is used to incubate at least, for example, the cap portion 14 of the fluid retaining cartridge assembly 10.

[0365] In some implementations, the color and / or intensity information associated with the detectable signal DS includes the line intensity of one or more result lines (e.g., control lines) superimposed in the result region R of the corresponding test strip samples I1, I2, I3. The line intensity of one or more result lines is analyzed by an analysis routine. In some instances, in order to speed up the analysis routine, the analysis routine can be further configured to determine the rate of change of the line intensity of one or more result lines, and predict the test result 190 indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte before the result line is fully developed, that is, before the end of the analysis duration.

[0366] Before or after the image data 141 is ready to be analyzed, the data processing hardware 143 (i.e., processor) of the instrument analyzer IC 140 may also execute a series of result line centering routines, each of which is used to ensure that the region of interest (i.e., result region R) and result line centering for each test. The line centering information specified by the test information 149 associated with each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 may vary due to the batch of each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 manufactured. In some cases, a series of line centering algorithms can use the line centering information to automatically detect and locate the center, even in the case of inherent positioning variations. The line intensity of each line on each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 is read and the quantitative results are calculated, displayed and stored in the memory hardware 145. Therefore, performing the analysis routine may include performing the result line centering routine for the corresponding test strip sample (I) to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result region R. Here, the result line centering routine is configured to identify one or more result lines superimposed in the result area R based on the image data 141 received from the imaging device 136, and adjust the position of the one or more result lines to align with the result line centering information specified by the test information 149.

[0367] Reference Fig.36 The instrument analysis device 100 may further include a region R disposed within the cavity 120 and directed toward at least one second opening 128 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. 128 A plurality of light sources 184 are provided for the purpose of illuminating an area of ​​each test strip specimen I1, I2, I3 to be imaged by the imaging device 136 as described above.

[0368] In an example, a plurality of light sources 184 are secured to the imaging device IC 134. In an implementation, the plurality of light sources 184 include light emitting diode (LED) light sources. In some cases, the plurality of light sources 184 include eight LED light sources. The plurality of LED light sources may emit any desired type of colored light (e.g., defined by wavelength), including but not limited to visible light; white light; colored light; and infrared light.

[0369] In an example, the imaging device IC 134 can include two sets of four LED light sources 184. In an example, the imaging device IC 134 can independently operate each LED light source 184 in the two sets of four LED light sources 184. Furthermore, in an example, the imaging device IC 134 can include two independent lighting circuits that allow for different lighting conditions within the cavity 120, which can increase the possibilities for the types of tests that can be performed by the appliance analyzing device 100.

[0370] The method may also include one or more calibration steps to ensure low unit-to-unit variability. Many of the calibration steps may be performed at a single time prior to first use of the appliance analyzing device 100. Calibration may occur at the manufacturer or in the field by the user.

[0371] In an example, the lighting calibration may set the illumination percentage of all of the plurality of light sources 184 associated with the imaging device IC 134. The target brightness may be determined via testing and the goal of the lighting calibration routine is to match the actual brightness to the target brightness. Figure 37-38 , you can use the calibration box 10 C The imaging device 136 can obtain the calibration cartridge 10 by inserting the calibration cartridge 10 into a central port (eg, the second cartridge receiving opening 126b) of at least one first opening 126 formed by the body 124 of the cartridge receiver 122. C The image is then provided to the appliance analyzer IC 140 for the calibration process. With all settings of the imaging device 136 set to default values, it is determined that the calibration box 10 C The average brightness value of the region of interest is then adjusted so that the average brightness value is within the set tolerance of the target brightness value.

[0372] In another example, white balance calibration can be used to set one or more color balance settings on the imaging device IC 134; calibrating these values ​​reduces color variations between different appliance analysis devices 100 caused by any inherent differences in the imaging devices 136 and multiple light sources 184 installed therein. The same calibration cartridge 100 described above can be used to set one or more color balance settings on the imaging device IC 134; calibrating these values ​​reduces color variations between different appliance analysis devices 100 caused by any inherent differences in the imaging devices 136 and multiple light sources 184 installed therein. C The region of interest can be used to implement white balance calibration, just as it is used for brightness calibration. The imaging device 136 can obtain the calibration box 10 C The image is then provided to the appliance analyzer IC 140 for a calibration process. In some cases, the red balance value and the blue balance value are determined via an iterative process designed to reduce the chromaticity values ​​to zero.

[0373] In yet another example, a lens calibration routine (for calibrating a lens associated with / attached to the imaging device 136) can be used for post-processing correction of vignetting effects inherent in the imaging device / lens setup. C The image of the entire calibration box 10 is then provided to the instrument analysis device IC 140 for use in the calibration process) C The intensity of the image is measured and a curve is fitted to the white area; this curve can then be used to correct the image to reduce color differences between ports within the appliance analysis device 100.

[0374] In another example, port calibration can be used to position each of the first, second and third cartridge receiving openings 126a, 126b, 126c to make identification of each test strip sample I1, I2, I3 easier and more accurate. C The first, second and third cartridge receiving openings 126a, 126b, 126c are found by inserting the calibration cartridge 10 into each of the first, second and third cartridge receiving openings 126a, 126b, 126c. C The image is then provided to the appliance analyzer IC 140 for the calibration process. C The black areas of are used as fiducial markers, allowing accurate determination of the box boundaries. Techniques such as edge detection may additionally or alternatively be used to locate the boundaries of each port within the captured image data 141.

[0375] The data processing hardware 143 of utensil analyzer IC 140 can perform test strip sample recognition algorithm to detect one or more test strip samples I received by box receiver 122 with the image data 141 received based on imaging device 136. The 3rd test strip sample I3 can be detected and included in the position in the first fluid maintenance box assembly 101, and the first, second and third test strip sample I1, I2, I3 can be detected and included in the position in the second fluid maintenance box assembly 102. Port calibration and test strip recognition algorithm can use dynamic threshold to identify boundary more accurately. When finding bar, can save its specific position in box receiver 122 for testing purpose. Data processing hardware 143 can perform recognition algorithm to constantly find the existence of test strip to trigger analysis automatically. This feature can also be used for monitoring test and to ensure that bar is not removed during analysis.

[0376] In yet another example, the crosshair calibration is an additional position calibration of the internal components of the instrument analysis device 100. In an example, the calibration box 10 C The T-shaped crosshair T (see e.g. Fig.38 ) allows the generation of X and Y position calibration offsets; the offsets are determined as the distance from the expected position in X and Y. The imaging device 136 can obtain the calibration box 10 C The image is then provided to the instrument analyzer IC 140 for the calibration process. Using the offset, the instrument analyzer IC 100 can more accurately locate specific features on the cartridge or inserted test strip specimen I1, I2, I3.

[0377] In another example, the box tracking can include white circular marks on either side imaged by the imaging device 136, which are then provided to the instrument analyzer IC 140 for the calibration process to verify both the position of internal components and the illumination. The position and illumination values ​​of these spots are saved throughout the calibration routine. These values ​​are then checked each time the instrument analyzer 100 is turned on. If the position or illumination of the area of ​​interest is outside the set thresholds, the verification will not pass. This can indicate to the user that there is a problem with the instrument analyzer 100 that may cause invalid results. If the illumination value is not within the tolerance of the predetermined area of ​​interest, this can indicate that the alignment of the internal components has been disrupted or that the multiple light sources 184 associated with the imaging device IC 134 are not functioning as they did during calibration.

[0378] Fig.39 4 is a flow chart of an example method 4200 for determining a test result 190 indicating the presence and / or concentration of a chemical analyte in a fluid F in contact with a test strip sample I. The method includes receiving image data 141 from an imaging device 136 at block 4202. The imaging device 136 captures image data 141 within a field of view directed through an opening 128 formed by a cartridge receiver 122. At block 4204, the method 4200 includes detecting, by data processing hardware 143, one or more test strip samples I received by the cartridge receiver 122 based on the image data 141. Here, the test strip sample I is configured to chemically react with the chemical analyte after contact with the fluid F. At block 4206, the method 4200 includes obtaining, by data processing hardware 143, test information 149 associated with each detected test strip sample I. For example, the test information 149 may be retrieved from the memory hardware 145 using a unique test strip identifier 147 associated with the test information 149. For each detected test strip sample I, method 4200 includes performing an analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample I based on corresponding test information 149 via data processing hardware 143 at block 4408. The analysis routine is configured to analyze detectable signal DS (e.g., color and / or intensity information) within result region R located on the corresponding test strip sample (I) based on image data 141 received from imaging device 136, and determine a test result 190 indicating the presence and / or concentration of a chemical analyte within fluid (F) based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information.

[0379] Other Implementations

[0380] It should be understood that although the invention has been described in conjunction with the detailed description of the invention, the above description is intended to illustrate rather than limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. Other aspects, advantages and modifications are within the scope of the claims.

[0381] 1. Embodiment 1, an instrument analysis device (100), the instrument analysis device (100) is designed to be sized to receive one or more fluid holding box assemblies (101, 102, 103), the instrument analysis device (100) comprising: a support member (102); a housing (104), the housing (104) being connected to the support member (102), wherein each of the support member (102) and the housing (104) defines an outer surface (101); 12, 116) and inner surfaces (114, 118) of each of the support member (102) and the housing (104), wherein the inner surfaces (114, 118) of each of the support member (102) and the housing (104) form a cavity (120); a cartridge receiver (122) disposed within the cavity (120) and connected to the inner surfaces (114, 118) of one or both of the support member (102) and the housing (104), wherein the cartridge receiver (122) defines at least one box observation window (128a, 128b, 128c); at least one box heater (168), the at least one box heater (168) is disposed in the cavity (120) and connected to the box receiver (122); an imaging device (136), the imaging device (136) is disposed in the cavity (120) and is arranged opposite to the at least one box observation window (128a, 128b, 128c); and an instrument analysis device integrated circuit (140), the instrument analysis device integrated circuit (140) is communicatively coupled to the at least one box heater (168) and the imaging device (136), wherein the instrument analysis device integrated circuit (140) includes data processing hardware (143), the data processing hardware (143) executes instructions stored on memory hardware (145) for operating the at least one box heater (168) and the imaging device (136).

[0382] 2. Embodiment 2, according to the instrument analysis device (100) of embodiment 1, wherein the box receiver (122) includes a main body (124) defining at least one first opening (126) and at least one second opening (128), wherein the at least one first opening (126) formed by the main body (124) of the box receiver (122) is aligned with a box receiver passage (130) extending through the housing (104).

[0383] 3. An instrument analysis device (100) as in embodiment 2, wherein the at least one cartridge heater (168) is defined by a body (172), the body (172) comprising: a base portion (172a), a front portion (172b), and a rear portion (172c); wherein each of the base portion (172a), the front portion (172b), and the rear portion (172c) is defined by a cartridge support surface (174a, 174b, 174c); wherein the cartridge support surface (174a, 174b) of each of the base portion (172a) and the front portion (172b) is defined by a substantially flat surface; and

[0384] Wherein the box supporting surface (174c) of the rear portion (172c) comprises a substantially flat surface interrupted by curved or arcuate surface portions.

[0385] 4. The instrument analysis device (100) of embodiment 2, wherein the at least one first opening (126) is defined by: a first box storage opening (126a); a second box storage opening (126b); and a third box storage opening (126c).

[0386] 5. An instrument analysis device (100) as in embodiment 4, wherein the at least one box heater (168) may include: a first box heater (168a); a second box heater (168b); and a third box heater (168c), wherein the first box heater (168a) corresponds to, is positioned opposite to, and is axially aligned with the first box receiving opening (126a) in the at least one first opening (126), wherein the second box heater (168b) corresponds to, is positioned opposite to, and is axially aligned with the second box receiving opening (126b) in the at least one first opening (126), wherein the third box heater (168c) corresponds to, is positioned opposite to, and is axially aligned with the third box receiving opening (126c) in the at least one first opening (126).

[0387] 6. An instrument analysis device (100) as described in embodiment 5, wherein each of the first box heater (168a), the second box heater (168b) and the third box heater (168c) is connected to the instrument analysis device integrated circuit (140).

[0388] 7. An instrument analyzing device (100) as in embodiment 6, wherein the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140) selectively activates each of the first box heater (168a), the second box heater (168b) and the third box heater (168c).

[0389] 8. The instrument analyzing device (100) according to embodiment 3, wherein the front portion (172b) and the rear portion (172c) of the main body (172) are not connected by a side portion.

[0390] 9. The instrument analyzing device (100) of embodiment 1 further comprises: a fan (180), wherein the fan (180) is located in the cavity (120), wherein the fan (180) is connected to the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140); and a temperature sensor (181), wherein the temperature sensor (181) is located in the cavity (120), wherein the temperature sensor (181) is connected to the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140).

[0391] 10. An instrument analyzing device (100) as in embodiment 1, wherein the instrument analyzing device (100) further comprises: an imaging device integrated circuit (134), wherein the imaging device integrated circuit (134) is connected to the imaging device (136), wherein the imaging device integrated circuit (134) is communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140).

[0392] 11. An instrument analysis device (100) as in embodiment 10, wherein the instrument analysis device (100) further comprises: a plurality of light sources (184), wherein the plurality of light sources (184) are arranged in the cavity (120) and connected to the imaging device integrated circuit (134), wherein the plurality of light sources (184) are directed toward the at least one box observation window (128a, 128b, 128c).

[0393] 12. The instrument analysis device (100) of embodiment 11, wherein the imaging device integrated circuit (134) independently operates each of the plurality of light sources (184).

[0394] 13. The instrument analysis device (100) according to embodiment 12, wherein the plurality of light sources (184) are light emitting diode light sources.

[0395] 14. The instrument analysis device (100) of embodiment 1, wherein the imaging device (136) is aligned with the area (R) of the at least one cartridge observation window (128a, 128b, 128c). 128 )alignment.

[0396] 15. The instrument analysis device (100) according to embodiment 1, wherein the imaging device (136) is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor.

[0397] 16. An instrument analysis device (100) according to embodiment 1, wherein one or both of the support member (102) and the housing (104) define a plurality of passages (144-150) extending through the support member (102) or the housing (104).

[0398] 17. An instrument analyzing device (100) as in embodiment 16, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include a user interface pathway (144) sized to permit access to a user interface (154), wherein the user interface (154) is communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140).

[0399] 18. The appliance analysis device (100) of embodiment 26, wherein the user interface (154) is a capacitive touch screen.

[0400] 19. An instrument analyzing device (100) as in embodiment 16, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include a data input pathway (146) sized to permit access to an optical scanner (158), wherein the optical scanner (158) is communicatively coupled to the instrument analyzing device integrated circuit (140).

[0401] 20. An instrument analysis device (100) as in embodiment 16, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include one or more data input / output pathways (148) sized to permit access to one or more Universal Serial Bus ports (162a), one or more Secure Digital card ports (162b), or an Ethernet port (162c).

[0402] 21. The appliance analyzing device (100) of embodiment 20, wherein the one or more Universal Serial Bus ports (162a), the one or more Secure Digital Card ports (162b), or the Ethernet port (162c) are communicatively coupled to the appliance analyzing device integrated circuit (140).

[0403] 22. An appliance analyzing device (100) as in embodiment 20, wherein the plurality of pathways (144-150) include one or more power pathways (150) for permitting insertion of a power line (166) to communicatively couple the appliance analyzing device integrated circuit (140) to a power source (P).

[0404] 23. The appliance analyzing device (100) of embodiment 1, wherein the appliance analyzing device integrated circuit (140) comprises data processing hardware (143) and memory hardware (145).

[0405] 24. A method, comprising: obtaining an instrument analysis device (100), wherein the instrument analysis device (100) includes an opening (128) formed through a cartridge receiver (122), data processing hardware (143), and an imaging device (136) in communication with the data processing hardware (143); obtaining one or more test strip samples (I), wherein the test strip samples (I) are configured to chemically react with a chemical analyte after contact with a fluid (F); inserting the one or more test strip samples (I) into the cartridge receiver (122); receiving image data (141) from the imaging device (136) at the data processing hardware (143), the imaging device (136) capturing the image data (141) within a field of view directed toward the opening (128) formed through the cartridge receiver (122); and obtaining, by the data processing hardware (143), a sample of the test strip sample (I) based on the sample. The one or more test strip samples (I) received by the box receiver (122) are detected based on the image data (141); test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) is obtained through the data processing hardware (143); and for each detected test strip sample (I), an analysis routine is performed on the corresponding test strip sample (I) based on the corresponding test information (149) through the data processing hardware (143), the analysis routine being configured to: analyze color and / or intensity information (DS) within a result area (R) located on the corresponding test strip sample (I) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and determine a test result (190) indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte in the fluid (F) based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information (DS).

[0406] 25. A method as described in embodiment 24, further comprising: providing one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10), wherein the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) are configured to retain the fluid (F) and the fluid retaining box assembly (10); inserting one or more test strip samples (I) into the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10); and inserting the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) into the box receiver (122).

[0407] 26. A method as described in embodiment 25, wherein the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) include two fluid retaining box assemblies (101, 102) and the one or more test strip samples (I) include two test strip samples (I1, I2); and wherein the inserting step includes inserting one test strip sample (I1) into one of the two fluid retaining box assemblies (101) and inserting another test strip sample (I2) into the other of the fluid retaining box assemblies (102).

[0408] 27. A method as described in embodiment 26, further comprising: after obtaining the test information (149) associated with the one or more test strip samples (I) inserted in the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10), measuring the level of the fluid (F) held by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10) by the data processing hardware (143); determining by the data processing hardware (143) whether the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least a threshold fluid level, wherein the threshold fluid level is specified by the test information (149); and in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, performing the analysis routine on each detected test strip sample (I) held by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10).

[0409] 28. A method as described in embodiment 27, further comprising: after obtaining the test information (149) associated with the one or more test strip samples (I) inserted in the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10), starting a timer by the data processing hardware (143) in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, wherein when the timer satisfies the analysis duration, the analysis routine determines the test result (190) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10), and the analysis duration is specified by the test information (149).

[0410] 29. A method as described in embodiment 28, further comprising: after obtaining the test information (149) associated with the one or more test strip samples (I) inserted in the one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10), selectively activating at least one heating device (168) based on the expected temperature of the retained fluid (F) by the data processing hardware (143), the at least one heating device (168) communicating with the data processing hardware (143) and thermally coupled to the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10), the expected temperature being specified by the test information (149) associated with at least one detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10); and selectively deactivating the corresponding heating device (168) by the data processing hardware (143) after a specified time period specified by the test information (149).

[0411] 30. The method of embodiment 29, wherein selectively activating at least one heating device (168) comprises selectively activating at least two heating devices (168) independently of each other. a , 168 b ), a heating device (168 a ) is thermally coupled to the inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (101), another heating device (168 b ) is thermally coupled to another inserted fluid retention box assembly (102).

[0412] 31. A method as described in embodiment 24, wherein obtaining test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) includes: analyzing the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136) to identify one or more marking marks set on each detected test strip sample (I); determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) based on the identified marking marks; and using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147) to retrieve the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) from memory hardware (145) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143).

[0413] 32. A method as described in embodiment 31, wherein the one or more identification marks are selected from bar code data (B), alphanumeric data (#) and color data (C).

[0414] 33. A method as described in embodiment 24, wherein obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) includes: receiving bar code data (B) from an optical scanner (158) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143), and the optical scanner (158) is configured to scan the bar code data (B) from each detected test strip sample (I); determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) based on the scanned bar code data (B); and using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147) to retrieve the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) from storage hardware (145) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143).

[0415] 34. A method as described in embodiment 24, wherein the analysis routine analyzes intensity information (DS), and the intensity information (DS) includes line intensity of one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0416] 35. A method as described in embodiment 34, wherein the analysis routine is further configured to: determine the rate of change of line intensity of the one or more result lines; and predict the test result (190) indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte in the fluid (F) based on the rate of change of line intensity.

[0417] 36. A method as described in embodiment 24, wherein performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) includes performing a result line centering routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I), and the result line centering routine is configured to: identify the one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and adjust the position of the one or more result lines to align with specified result line centering information, the line centering information being specified by the test information (149) associated with the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0418] 37. A method as described in embodiment 24, further comprising executing, by the data processing hardware (143), a graphical user interface (153) on a screen (154) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143), wherein the graphical user interface (153) is configured to display the test result (190) of each detected test strip sample (I).

[0419] 38. The method of embodiment 24, wherein performing the analysis routine comprises performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample (I1) and performing a second analysis routine on a second tested test strip sample (I2).

[0420] 39. The method of embodiment 38, wherein the first and the second detected test strip specimens (I1, I2) are held by a single fluid holding cartridge assembly (10) inserted into the cartridge receiver (122).

[0421] 40. A method as described in embodiment 38, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) inserted into the box receiver (122) and the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0422] 41. The method of embodiment 38, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip sample (I3) concurrently with the first and the second analysis routines.

[0423] 42. A method as described in embodiment 41, wherein the first, the second and the third detected test strip samples (I1, I2, I3) are all retained by a single fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10) inserted into the cartridge receiver (122).

[0424] 43. A method as described in embodiment 41, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) inserted into the box receiver (122), the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) inserted into the box receiver (122), and the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is held by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0425] 44. A method, the method comprising: receiving image data (141) at data processing hardware (143) from an imaging device (136) in communication with the data processing hardware (143), the imaging device (136) capturing the image data (141) within a field of view directed through an opening (128) formed by a cartridge receiver (122); detecting, by the data processing hardware (143), based on the image data (141), one or more test strip samples (I) received by the cartridge receiver (122), the test strip samples (I) being configured to chemically react with a chemical analyte after contact with a fluid (F); obtaining, by the data processing hardware (143), a sample of each test strip; and for each detected test strip sample (I), performing an analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) based on the corresponding test information (149) by the data processing hardware (143), the analysis routine being configured to: analyze color and / or intensity information (DS) within a result area (R) located on the corresponding test strip sample (I) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and determine a test result (190) indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte in the fluid (F) based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information (DS).

[0426] 45. A method as described in embodiment 44, wherein detecting the one or more test strip samples (I) received by the box receiver (122) includes continuously detecting the one or more test strip samples (I) retained by one or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) removably inserted into the box receiver (122), each fluid retainer assembly (10) being configured to retain the fluid (F) and two or more test strip samples (I).

[0427] 46. ​​A method as described in embodiment 45, wherein detecting the one or more test strip samples (I) received by the box receiver (126) includes detecting a plurality of test strip samples (I) retained by two or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) removably inserted into the box receiver (126), each of the two or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) being removably inserted into the box receiver (126) so as to retain at least one of the plurality of test strip samples (I) being detected.

[0428] 47. A method as described in embodiment 45, wherein the method further includes: after obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I): for each removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10): measuring, by the data processing hardware (143), the level of the fluid (F) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10); determining, by the data processing hardware (143), whether the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least a threshold fluid level, wherein the threshold fluid level is specified by the test information (149); and in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, performing the analysis routine on each detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10).

[0429] 48. A method as described in embodiment 47, further comprising starting a timer by the data processing hardware (143) in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, wherein when the timer satisfies an analysis duration, the analysis routine determines the test result (190) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10), and the analysis duration is specified by the test information (149).

[0430] 49. A method as described in embodiment 45, further comprising: after obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I): for each removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10): selectively activating at least one heating device (168) based on the expected temperature of the retained fluid (F) by the data processing hardware (143), the at least one heating device (168) communicating with the data processing hardware (143) and thermally coupled to the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10), the expected temperature being specified by the test information (149) associated with at least one detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10); and selectively deactivating the corresponding heating device (168) by the data processing hardware (143) after a specified time period specified by the test information (149).

[0431] 50. A method as described in embodiment 49, wherein selectively activating at least one heating device (168) includes selectively activating at least two heating devices (168) independently of each other when at least two fluid retaining box assemblies (10) are removably inserted into the box receiver (122), each heating device (168) being thermally coupled to a corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10) and thermally isolated from the one or more other fluid retaining box assemblies (10).

[0432] 51. A method as described in embodiment 44, wherein obtaining test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) includes: analyzing the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136) to identify one or more marking marks set on each detected test strip sample (I); determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) based on the identified marking marks; and using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147) to retrieve the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) from memory hardware (145) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143).

[0433] 52. A method as described in embodiment 51, wherein the one or more identification marks include at least one of bar code data (B), alphanumeric data (#), or color data (C).

[0434] 53. A method as described in embodiment 44, wherein obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) includes: receiving bar code data (B) from an optical scanning device (158) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143), and the optical scanning device (158) is configured to scan the bar code data (B) from each detected test strip sample (I); determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) based on the scanned bar code data (B); and using the corresponding unique test strip identifier (147) to retrieve the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) from storage hardware (145) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143).

[0435] 54. A method as described in embodiment 44, wherein the analysis routine analyzes intensity information (DS), and the intensity information (DS) includes line intensity of one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0436] 55. A method as described in embodiment 54, wherein the analysis routine is further configured to: determine the rate of change of line intensity of the one or more result lines; and predict the test result (190) indicating the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte in the fluid (F) based on the rate of change of line intensity.

[0437] 56. A method as described in embodiment 44, wherein performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) includes performing a result line centering routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I), and the result line centering routine is configured to: identify the one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and adjust the position of the one or more result lines to align with specified result line centering information, the line centering information being specified by the test information (149) associated with the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0438] 57. As a method as described in embodiment 44, the method further includes storing the test results (190) of the corresponding test strip sample (I) in memory hardware (145) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143) after performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I).

[0439] 58. A method as in embodiment 44, further comprising executing, by the data processing hardware (143), a graphical user interface (153) on a screen (154) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143), wherein the graphical user interface (153) is configured to display the test result (190) of each detected test strip sample (I).

[0440] 59. A method as described in embodiment 44, wherein performing the analysis routine includes simultaneously performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample (I1) and performing a second analysis routine on a second tested test strip sample (I2).

[0441] 60. The method of embodiment 59, wherein the first and the second detected test strip specimens (I1, I2) are held by a single fluid holding cartridge assembly (10) removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (122).

[0442] 61. A method as described in embodiment 59, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122) and the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0443] 62. The method of embodiment 59, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip sample (I3) simultaneously with the first and the second analysis routines.

[0444] 63. A method as described in embodiment 62, wherein the first, the second and the third detected test strip samples (I1, I2, I3) are all retained by a single fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10) removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (126).

[0445] 64. A method as described in embodiment 62, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), and the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is held by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122).

[0446] 65. A method as described in embodiment 44, wherein performing the analysis routine includes: performing a first analysis routine on a first detected test strip sample (I1), the first detected test strip sample (I1) being retained by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) removably inserted into the box receiver (122); and performing a second analysis routine on a second detected test strip sample (I2), the second detected test strip sample (I2) being retained by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) removably inserted into the box receiver (122), the second fluid retaining box assembly (102) being associated with a position in the box receiver (122), the position being different from a position associated with the first fluid retaining box assembly (101).

[0447] 66. A method as described in embodiment 65, wherein the first and the second analysis routines are performed independently of each other.

[0448] 67. The method of embodiment 65, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip sample (I3).

[0449] 68. A method as described in embodiment 67, wherein the third analysis routine is performed simultaneously with at least one of the first analysis routine or the second analysis routine.

[0450] 69. A method as described in embodiment 67, wherein the first, the second and the third analysis routines are performed independently of each other.

[0451] 70. A method as described in embodiment 67, wherein the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is retained by the first fluid retaining box assembly (101) or the second fluid retaining box assembly (102).

[0452] 71. A method as described in embodiment 67, wherein the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is held by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), and the third fluid retaining box assembly (103) is associated with a position in the box receiver (122), which is different from the position associated with the first and second box assemblies (101, 102).

[0453] Some implementations have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, other implementations are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method, comprising: receiving image data (141) at data processing hardware (143) from an imaging device (136) in communication with the data processing hardware (143), the imaging device (136) capturing the image data (141) within a field of view directed through an opening (128) formed through a cartridge receiver (122); Simultaneously detecting, by the data processing hardware (143) based on the image data (141), a plurality of test strip samples (I) held by two or more fluid holding cartridge assemblies (10) removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (122), each of the two or more fluid holding cartridge assemblies (10) being removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (122) so as to hold at least one of the plurality of test strip samples (I) being detected, the test strip samples (I) being configured to chemically react with a chemical analyte after contact with a fluid (F); obtaining, by the data processing hardware (143), test information (149) associated with each tested test strip sample (I); and For each detected test strip sample (I), an analysis routine is performed on the corresponding test strip sample (I) by the data processing hardware (143) based on the corresponding test information (149), the analysis routine being configured to: analyzing color and / or intensity information within a result area (R) located on the corresponding test strip specimen (I) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and A test result (190) indicative of the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid (F) is determined based on the analyzed color and / or intensity information.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein detecting the plurality of test strip samples (I) received by the box receiver (122) comprises continuously detecting the plurality of test strip samples (I) retained by two or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10) removably inserted into the box receiver (122), each fluid retaining box assembly (10) being configured to retain the fluid (F) and two or more test strip samples (I).

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising, after obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I): For each removably inserted fluid retention cartridge assembly (10): measuring, by said data processing hardware (143), a level of said fluid (F) retained by a corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10); determining, by the data processing hardware (143), whether the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least a threshold fluid level, the threshold fluid level being specified by the test information (149); and In response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, the analysis routine is performed on each tested test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining cartridge assembly (10).

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising starting a timer by the data processing hardware (143) in response to determining that the measured level of the fluid (F) is at least the threshold fluid level, Wherein the analysis routine determines the test result (190) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10) when the timer satisfies the analysis duration, the analysis duration being specified by the test information (149).

5. The method of claim 2, further comprising, after obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I): For each removably inserted fluid retention cartridge assembly (10): selectively activating, by the data processing hardware (143), at least one heating device (168), which communicates with the data processing hardware (143) and is thermally coupled to a corresponding removably insertable fluid retaining box assembly (10), based on a desired temperature of the retained fluid (F), the desired temperature being specified by the test information (149) associated with at least one detected test strip sample (I) retained by the corresponding removably insertable fluid retaining box assembly (10); and The corresponding heating device (168) is selectively deactivated by the data processing hardware (143) after a specified period of time specified by the test information (149).

6. A method as claimed in claim 5, wherein selectively activating at least one heating device (168) includes selectively activating at least two heating devices (168) independently of each other when at least two fluid retaining box assemblies (10) are removably inserted into the box receiver (122), each heating device (168) being thermally coupled to a corresponding removably inserted fluid retaining box assembly (10) and thermally isolated from one or more other fluid retaining box assemblies (10).

7. The method of claim 1, wherein obtaining test information (149) associated with each tested test strip sample (I) comprises: analyzing the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136) to identify one or more indicia disposed on each tested test strip specimen (I); determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each tested test strip sample (I) based on the identified signature; The test information (149) associated with each detected test strip specimen (I) is retrieved from memory hardware (145) in communication with the data processing hardware (143) using a corresponding unique test strip identifier (147).

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the one or more marking indicia include at least one of barcode data (B), alphanumeric data (#), or color data (C).

9. The method of claim 1, wherein obtaining the test information (149) associated with each detected test strip sample (I) comprises: receiving bar code data (B) from an optical scanning device (158) in communication with the data processing hardware (143), the optical scanning device (158) being configured to scan the bar code data (B) from each tested test strip specimen (I); determining a unique test strip identifier (147) associated with each tested test strip specimen (I) based on the scanned bar code data (B); and The test information (149) associated with each detected test strip specimen (I) is retrieved from memory hardware (145) in communication with the data processing hardware (143) using a corresponding unique test strip identifier (147).

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the analysis routine analyzes intensity information comprising line intensities of one or more result lines superimposed in the result region (R) of the corresponding test strip specimen (I).

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the analysis routine is further configured to: determining a rate of change of line intensity of the one or more resultant lines; and The test result (190) indicative of the presence and / or concentration of the chemical analyte within the fluid (F) is predicted based on the rate of change of line intensity.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) comprises performing a result line centering routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I) to center one or more result lines superimposed in the result region (R) of the corresponding test strip sample (I), the result line centering routine being configured to: identifying the one or more result lines superimposed in the result area (R) based on the image data (141) received from the imaging device (136); and The position of the one or more result lines is adjusted to align with specified result line centering information, the line centering information being specified by the test information (149) associated with the corresponding test strip specimen (I).

13. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing the test result (190) of the corresponding test strip sample (I) in memory hardware (145) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143) after performing the analysis routine on the corresponding test strip sample (I).

14. The method of claim 1, further comprising executing, by the data processing hardware (143), a graphical user interface (153) on a screen (154) that communicates with the data processing hardware (143), wherein the graphical user interface (153) is configured to display the test result (190) of each detected test strip sample (I).

15. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein performing the analysis routine includes simultaneously performing a first analysis routine on a first detected test strip sample (I1) and performing a second analysis routine on a second detected test strip sample (I2), wherein the first detected test strip sample (I1) is retained in a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) of the two or more fluid retaining box assemblies (10), and the second detected test strip sample (I2) is retained in a second fluid retaining box assembly of the two or more fluid retaining box assemblies.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip sample (I3) concurrently with the first analysis routine and the second analysis routine.

17. A method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the test strip sample (I1) for the first detection is held by a first fluid retaining box assembly (101) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), the test strip sample (I2) for the second detection is held by a second fluid retaining box assembly (102) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122), and the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is held by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) that is removably inserted into the box receiver (122).

18. The method of claim 1, wherein performing the analysis routine comprises: performing a first analysis routine on a first tested test strip sample (I1) held by a first fluid holding cartridge assembly (101) removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (122); and A second analysis routine is performed on a second detected test strip sample (I2), the second detected test strip sample (I2) being retained by a second fluid retaining cartridge assembly (102) removably inserted into the cartridge receiver (122), the second fluid retaining cartridge assembly (102) being associated with a position in the cartridge receiver (122) that is different from a position associated with the first fluid retaining cartridge assembly (101).

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first analysis routine and the second analysis routine are performed independently of each other.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising performing a third analysis routine on a third tested test strip sample (I3).

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the third analysis routine is performed concurrently with at least one of the first analysis routine or the second analysis routine.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the first analysis routine, the second analysis routine, and the third analysis routine are performed independently of one another.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is retained by the first fluid retaining box assembly (101) or the second fluid retaining box assembly (102).

24. A method as claimed in claim 20, wherein the test strip sample (I3) for the third detection is retained by a third fluid retaining box assembly (103) removably inserted into the box receiver (122), and the third fluid retaining box assembly (103) is associated with a position in the box receiver (122), which is different from the positions associated with the first fluid retaining box assembly (101) and the second fluid retaining box assembly (102).

Images