Apparatus for removing liquid contents of a container

Abstract

A cradle for draining liquid from a container is described herein. An exemplary device includes a housing having a bottom wall, a side wall, and an open top. The housing is for receiving a container having a liquid. The exemplary device includes a probe extending upward from the bottom wall toward the open top, which drains liquid from the container when the probe is inserted into the container. The exemplary device also includes a sliding lock slidably disposed within the housing that receives a cap or top of the container when the container is inserted into the housing. The sliding lock includes a key slot. The sliding lock is movable when the cap or top of the container has a matching key that engages with the key slot, thereby allowing the sliding lock to move downward to expose the probe and drain liquid from the container.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to liquid containers and, more particularly, to an apparatus for removing the liquid contents of the container. [Background technology]

[0002] Healthcare diagnostic laboratories use diagnostic equipment, such as automated diagnostic analyzers, for testing and analysis of samples. Known automated diagnostic analyzers use various solutions or liquids, such as reagents, wash solutions, triggers, diluents, etc., to perform diagnostic analysis procedures. These liquids are generally used throughout the analysis procedures, and thus the analyzers typically have one or more on-board containers or tanks that hold the liquids. To refill the on-board tanks, smaller bottles or containers of the solution or liquid are fluidly coupled to the tanks via screw caps with dip tube assemblies. The liquid contents are then pumped from the containers to the respective on-board tanks via the dip tube assemblies. However, this process of attaching and removing the screw caps and inserting and removing the dip tube assemblies into the bulk solution containers is cumbersome and tedious. Also, some automated diagnostic analyzers include multiple on-board tanks for storing various liquids. Thus, there may be multiple dip tube assemblies for the on-board tanks, each of which corresponds to a specific on-board tank. Thus, it may be essential to connect the correct dip tube to the correct container of liquid. Otherwise, the wrong liquid could be inadvertently pumped into the wrong tank on board, thereby compromising the integrity of the analytical procedure.

[0003] Some known container connection assemblies receive a liquid container in an upside down orientation and include a piercing probe that is inserted into the container to drain the contents. However, the piercing probe is exposed and can be a hazard to an operator who is constantly inserting the container into the connection assembly. Furthermore, these connection assemblies can mistakenly receive the wrong container with the wrong liquid, and therefore, they ultimately suffer from the disadvantages mentioned above. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0004] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary container constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure inserted into an exemplary cradle for draining the contents of the container; [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary cap having an exemplary key ring for mating with the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 to allow the exemplary container of FIG. 1 to be inserted into the exemplary cradle and drained. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary cap having an exemplary key ring for mating with the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 to allow the exemplary container of FIG. 1 to be inserted into the exemplary cradle and drained. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary cap having an exemplary key ring for mating with the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 to allow the exemplary container of FIG. 1 to be inserted into the exemplary cradle and drained. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of one of the exemplary caps of FIGS. 2A-2C shown without the exemplary key ring. [Figure 3B] 3B is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary cap of FIG. 3A taken along line CC of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 without the exemplary container. [Diagram 5] 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary probe mount that may be implemented in the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of an exemplary sliding lock that may be implemented in the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary sliding lock of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A] 2 is a top perspective view of an exemplary trigger that may be implemented in the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary trigger of FIG. 7A. [Figure 8] 2C is a cross-sectional view of the example container and example cradle of FIG. 1 taken along line AA of FIG. 1, with the example container in a first position where it is not fully inserted into the example cradle, and the example cap of FIG. 2C being used on the example container and engaged with the example sliding lock of FIGS. 6A and 6B. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is another cross-sectional view of the exemplary container and exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 taken along line AA of FIG. 1, with the exemplary container in a second position in which the exemplary container is partially inserted into the exemplary cradle, the exemplary container is pushed down into the exemplary cradle, and the exemplary sliding lock is slid into the exemplary cradle. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary container and exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 taken along line BB of FIG. 1, with the exemplary container in a third position in which the exemplary container is fully inserted into the exemplary cradle and the contents of the exemplary container can be drained. [Figure 11] 2 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 showing an exemplary latch for securing the exemplary container within the exemplary cradle. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of the example latch of FIG. [Figure 13] 2 is a perspective view of the exemplary cradle of FIG. 1 showing an exemplary light source disposed within the release button. [Figure 14A] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary sequence for removing an exemplary container from an exemplary cradle in an exemplary drawer of an automated diagnostic analyzer having a plurality of the exemplary cradles of FIG. 1, showing an exemplary button on one of the exemplary cradles illuminated. [Figure 14B]14A-14C illustrate an exemplary sequence for removing exemplary containers from an exemplary cradle in an exemplary drawer of an automated diagnostic analyzer having a plurality of the exemplary cradles of FIG. 1, showing the exemplary release button of FIG. 14A being depressed to release the corresponding container. [Figure 14C] 14A-14C are diagrams illustrating an exemplary sequence for removing exemplary containers from an exemplary cradle in an exemplary drawer of an automated diagnostic analyzer having a plurality of the exemplary cradles of FIG. 1, showing the exemplary container of FIG. 14B being removed from the exemplary cradle. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example bulk solution system using the example cradle of FIG. 1. [Figure 16] 16 is a flow chart illustrating an example method of inserting a container into a cradle to drain the container, which may be implemented using the example cradle of FIG. 1 and / or the example bulk solution system of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a processor platform for use in the examples disclosed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0005] Particular examples are shown in the figures identified above and described in detail below. In describing these examples, similar or identical reference numbers are used to identify the same or similar elements. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features and certain views of the drawings may be shown exaggerated or schematic in scale for clarity and / or conciseness. In addition, several examples are described throughout this specification. Any feature of any example may be included in, substituted for, or otherwise combined with other features from other examples.

[0006] Automated diagnostic instruments or analyzers typically have one or more on-board tanks for storing (e.g., containing) bulk solutions or liquids (e.g., diluents, triggers, cleaning fluids, etc.) used during diagnostic analysis procedures. The tanks are often located within the chassis or body of the automated analyzer. To refill or replenish the on-board tanks, individual bottles or containers of bulk liquid are fluidly connected to the on-board tanks and their contents are pumped into the on-board tanks. The containers are equipped with screw caps and dip tube assemblies are coupled to the containers. However, removing the caps from the bulk liquid / solution containers, installing the screw caps, and replacing the dip tube assemblies is tedious and cumbersome. Furthermore, the dip tube assemblies are often unable to aspirate all of the contents of the containers. Thus, when replacing bulk solution containers, small amounts of liquid solution are often discarded, which can waste solution over time and increase costs. Furthermore, some diagnostic analyzers have multiple on-board tanks. Thus, there are multiple fluid lines that couple to each of the on-board tanks. Thus, it is essential that the correct refill containers are coupled to the correct fluid lines. Otherwise, the wrong fluid may be unintentionally dispensed into the wrong on-board tank, thereby compromising the integrity of the diagnostic test.

[0007] Disclosed herein is an exemplary cradle apparatus for receiving a container of a solution or liquid and draining or pumping the liquid therein to another location (e.g., an on-board tank of a diagnostic analyzer). The exemplary cradle has a unique sliding lock that allows only containers with a matching key cap to be inserted into the cradle and drained. Thus, unlike the dip tube assemblies described above, the exemplary cradle can only receive the correct or desired container with the appropriate liquid therein, thereby reducing the chance of connecting the wrong container to the wrong liquid line. In some examples, multiple ones of the exemplary cradle may be implemented, each fluidly connected to a corresponding tank. Each of the cradles may have a different key slot in the corresponding sliding lock, so that only containers with a matching key ring may be inserted into the cradle and emptied.

[0008] In some examples disclosed herein, a bulk liquid / solution container is inserted upside down into a corresponding cradle, and upon insertion, a piercing probe pierces the cap on the container. The probe is fluidly connected to a barb at the bottom of the cradle, where a hose or tube can be connected to fluidly couple the probe to another location, such as an on-board storage tank. The cap has a septum and a specific key ring. The cap can be screwed onto the container. When the container is inserted upside down into the cradle, the cap engages with a sliding lock disposed within the housing of the cradle. The sliding lock is located above the tip of the probe and is locked into place by one or more lockouts. If the cap has the correct key ring, the key ring fits into a key slot in the sliding lock and engages a trigger, which releases the lockout and allows the sliding lock to move. More specifically, when the container is pushed down into the cradle, the key ring pushes the trigger downward, causing the angled edge of the trigger to slide against the lockout and push the lockout slider outward. As the sliding lock moves downward, the stationary probe punctures the septum and extends into the vessel (e.g., to form a fluid connection within the system). The contents of the vessel can be drained or emptied through the probe. In some examples, the cradle includes a second probe that provides a vent (e.g., positive pressure) as liquid is drained to prevent a vacuum from forming within the vessel.

[0009] In some examples, when the container is fully inserted into the cradle, a latch secures the container in place. After the cap is pushed off the latch, the latch engages a lip on the cap. To release the latch, an operator can press or depress a release button (e.g., a release actuator, an ejection button, and / or any other suitable release mechanism, etc.) that causes the latch to release the cap of the container. One or more springs may be disposed within the housing of the cradle to bias the slide lock upward. Thus, when the latch is released, the container is ejected from the housing of the cradle. Thus, the exemplary cradle provides an easier way to fluidly couple and disconnect a container to a fluid system.

[0010] If a container without the correct cap (e.g., the correct key ring) is inserted into the cradle, the cap cannot engage the trigger and release the lockout. As a result, the lockout prevents the sliding lock from moving and thus prevents the container from being punctured and drained by the probe. In some examples, the cradle includes a sensor (e.g., an integral sensor, a capacitive sensor, and / or any other suitable sensor) for sensing the level of liquid in the container. In some examples, the cradle includes a sensor for sensing when the latch is fully engaged (i.e., when the container is fully inserted). In some examples, the cradle can include one or more light sources or other indicators to indicate various states of the cradle. For example, when the container is fully pushed in and the latch is engaged, a light source (e.g., a green light) can illuminate a release button (which can be, for example, transparent or translucent). If the container is not fully inserted, another light source (e.g., a yellow light) can illuminate the release button. In some examples, if the container is empty or low on liquid, another light source (e.g., a red light) can illuminate the release button.

[0011] The exemplary cradles disclosed herein are described in the context of bulk solutions or liquids for use in an automated diagnostic analyzer (e.g., an immunoassay (IA) analyzer or a clinical chemistry (CC) analyzer). However, the exemplary cradles may be used in any application in which liquids are transferred from a container to another location.

[0012] An exemplary device disclosed herein includes a housing having a bottom wall, a side wall, and an open top. The housing is for receiving a container having a liquid for use in an automated diagnostic analyzer. The exemplary device includes a probe extending upwardly from the bottom wall toward the open top. The probe is for draining liquid from the container when the probe is inserted into the container. The exemplary device also includes a sliding lock slidably disposed within the housing. The sliding lock includes an engagement surface, an opening in the engagement surface through which the probe is received when the sliding lock is moved from a first position in which the engagement surface is above a tip of the probe to a second position in which the engagement surface is below the tip of the probe, and a key slot in the engagement surface. The exemplary device includes a lockout disposed below the engagement surface of the sliding lock that is disengageably coupled to the sliding lock. The lockout is movable between a locked position in which the sliding lock is prevented from moving within the housing and an unlocked position in which the sliding lock is movable within the housing. The key slot is for receiving a receptacle key which is inserted into the housing to move the lockout from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0013] In some examples, the device includes a trigger disposed below the engagement surface of the slide lock such that the key is engageable to move the trigger toward the bottom wall of the cradle to move the lockout to the unlocked position.

[0014] In some examples, the trigger is movable along a first axis and the lockout is movable along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis. In some such examples, the trigger has a ramped surface that engages the lockout as the trigger moves toward the bottom wall of the housing to move the lockout along the second axis.

[0015] In some examples, the key slot is a ring-shaped slot. In some such examples, the key is a ring-shaped protrusion that mates with the ring-shaped slot.

[0016] In some examples, the device includes a resilient member that biases the slide lock away from the bottom wall of the housing. In some examples, the device includes a latch that engages with a rim on the container to releasably secure the container within the housing when the container is inserted into the housing. In some such examples, the device includes a release actuator that releases the latch. The release actuator has a light source that illuminates the container when it is fully inserted into the housing.

[0017] In some examples, the housing receives the container in an upside down orientation. In some examples, the device includes a barb disposed on an exterior surface of the bottom wall to fluidly couple an internal passageway of the probe to a tube connected to the barb.

[0018] Another exemplary device disclosed herein includes a housing having a bottom wall, a side wall, and an open top. The housing is for receiving a container having a liquid for use in an automated diagnostic analyzer. The exemplary device includes a probe extending upwardly from the bottom wall toward the open top. The probe is for draining liquid from the container when the probe is inserted into the container. The exemplary device also includes a sliding lock slidably disposed within the housing. The sliding lock includes an engagement surface, an opening in the engagement surface through which the probe is received when the sliding lock is moved from a first position in which the engagement surface is above a tip of the probe to a second position in which the engagement surface is below the tip of the probe, and a key slot in the engagement surface. The exemplary device includes a lockout releasably coupled to the sliding lock to prevent movement of the sliding lock when the lockout is in a locked position. The exemplary device also includes a trigger disposed below the engagement surface of the sliding lock. The trigger is engageable with a container key inserted into the key slot, thereby moving the trigger toward a bottom wall of the housing to move the lockout to an unlocked position in which the sliding lock is movable within the housing.

[0019] In some examples, the sliding lock and the trigger are movable along the same axis. In some examples, the trigger includes a second opening for receiving the probe therethrough when the trigger is moved toward the bottom wall of the housing. In some such examples, the second opening of the trigger is concentric with and outboard of the first opening of the sliding lock.

[0020] In some examples, the device includes a first spring that biases the trigger away from the bottom wall of the housing. In some such examples, the device includes a second spring that biases the slide lock away from the bottom wall of the housing.

[0021] In some examples, the trigger is movable along a first axis and the lockout is movable along a second axis, the second axis being perpendicular to the first axis. In some examples, the trigger includes a ramp that engages the lockout when the trigger is actuated to move the lockout in a direction that is perpendicular to the movement of the trigger.

[0022] Another exemplary device disclosed herein includes a housing for receiving a container having a liquid for use in an automated diagnostic analyzer. The housing has a bottom wall, a side wall, and an open top. The exemplary device includes a probe extending upwardly from the bottom wall toward the open top. The probe is for draining liquid from the container when the probe is inserted into the container. The exemplary device also includes a slide lock slidably disposed within the housing. The slide lock includes an engagement surface disposed above the probe, an opening in the engagement surface for receiving the probe therethrough when the slide lock is moved toward the bottom wall of the housing, and a key slot. The slide lock is operable between a locked state in which movement of the slide lock is prevented and an unlocked state in which the slide lock is movable. The slide lock is switched to the unlocked state when a cap of the container includes a key that corresponds to and engages with the key slot.

[0023] Disclosed herein is an exemplary method of inserting a container with a cap having a key ring into a cradle. The cradle includes a housing, a probe disposed within the housing, a sliding lock slidably disposed within the housing, the sliding lock including (1) an engagement surface, (2) an opening in the engagement surface through which the probe is received when the sliding lock is moved from a first position where the engagement surface is above the tip of the probe to a second position where the engagement surface is below the tip of the probe, and (3) a key slot in the engagement surface, and a lockout disposed below the engagement surface of the sliding lock that is releasably coupled to the sliding lock. The exemplary method includes moving the container into the cradle. When the key ring matches the key slot, the lockout is moved between a locked position where the sliding lock is prevented from moving within the housing and an unlocked position where the sliding lock is movable to a second position within the housing. The exemplary method also includes coupling the container into the cradle and draining the contents of the container through the probe.

[0024] In some examples, when the container is inserted into the cradle, the container is inverted. In some examples, the cradle includes a latch movable between a disengaged position in which the container is disengaged from the cradle and an engaged position in which the container is coupled to the cradle. In some such examples, the method includes determining whether the latch is in the disengaged position or the engaged position by a latch position sensor. In some such examples, the method also includes determining a level of liquid in the container by a liquid level sensor. In some such examples, the method includes activating a first indicator when the latch is determined to be in the engaged position. In some such examples, the method also includes activating a second indicator when the level of liquid in the container is determined to be below a threshold value. In some examples, the first indicator is a light source of a first color and the second indicator is a light source of a second color different from the light source of the first color. In some examples, the first indicator and the second indicator are disposed within a release button of the cradle.

[0025] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary bulk solution system 100 in which an exemplary cradle 102 is implemented to receive a bottle or container 104 and drain its liquid contents. The contents may be, for example, a reagent, a wash solution, a trigger, a diluent, and / or any other solution or liquid for use in an automated diagnostic analyzer. The exemplary container 104 may be of any desired volume (e.g., 1 liter). In the illustrated example, the cradle 102 includes a body or housing 105 having a bottom wall 106 and a side wall 108 defining an opening (e.g., an open top) for receiving the top of the container 104 (disclosed in more detail herein). When the container 104 is fully inserted into the cradle 102, the contents of the container 104 may be drained or removed via one or more openings (e.g., through holes, openings) in the bottom wall 106 (disclosed in more detail herein). In the illustrated example, the cradle 102 includes a vessel holder 110 (e.g., molding) that defines an opening 112 shaped to receive the vessel 104 and support the vessel 104 in an upside-down or inverted orientation. In the illustrated example, the vessel 104 has a substantially rectangular cross-section with curved edges. However, in other examples, the vessel 104 can have a circular cross-section or a cross-section of any other shape. In the illustrated example, the cradle 102 has a mounting plate 114 with one or more holes 116 that can be used to mount the cradle 102 to another structure (e.g., an automated diagnostic analyzer, an analyzer drawer, etc.).

[0026] 1, the cradle 102 includes a latch 118 and a release button 120 (e.g., eject button, release actuator). When the container 102 is fully inserted into the cradle 102, the latch 118 secures the container 104 to the cradle 102 to prevent the container 104 from being (e.g., unintentionally) removed from the cradle 102. To release the container 104, the release button 120 can be depressed. The release button 120 engages the latch 118, thereby releasing the latch 118 from the container 104. The release button 120 is disposed within a release button housing 122 along a side of the container holder 110. In the illustrated example, the cradle 120 includes a circuit board 124 (e.g., a processor, printed circuit board (PCB), microchip, etc.), a latch position sensor 126 (e.g., an encoder, an optical sensor), and a liquid level sensor 128 (e.g., an integral sensor, a capacitive sensor), which are disclosed in further detail herein.

[0027] In the illustrated example, the cradle 102 will only accept containers with caps or tops that have a specific key ring that matches with a key slot in the cradle 102 (disclosed in more detail herein). Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C show exemplary caps 200 that may be used with the container 104 (Figure 1). Each of the caps 200 has a key ring 202 that matches with a key slot of the corresponding cradle. In the illustrated example, the key ring 200 is circular in shape extending from the cap 200. The key ring 202 of the cap 200 in Figure 2A has a relatively small diameter compared to the diameter of the key ring 202 of the cap 200 in Figures 2B and 2C. The key ring 202 of the cap 200 in Figure 2C has a maximum diameter, and the key ring 202 of the cap 200 in Figure 2B has a diameter that has a dimension between the key ring 202 of the cap 200 in Figures 2A and 2C. The different caps 200 in Figures 2A to 2C can accommodate different containers with different liquids. Each of the caps 200 can interact with a respective cradle having a matching key slot. Thus, if one of the caps 200 is inserted into the wrong cradle, the key ring 202 will not have the correct diameter key to be accepted and drained into the cradle. In the illustrated example, three different sizes of key rings 202 are shown, where each of the key rings 202 is used with a particular type of container of liquid. However, it should be understood that more caps with key rings of different diameters can be implemented. Additionally or alternatively, other caps with different shaped key rings (e.g., square, rectangular, etc.) can also be implemented.

[0028] FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of one of the caps 200, and FIG. 3B shows a cross-sectional view of the cap 200 taken along line CC of FIG. 3A. In the illustrated example of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the key ring 200 (FIGS. 2A-2C) has been removed for clarity. The cap 200 has a lid or surface 300 having an opening 302 (e.g., aperture, hole, channel) therethrough. A sidewall 304 having an internal thread 306 extends from one side of the lid 300, and an annular lip or rim 308 extends from the other side of the lid 300. The cap 200 can be screwed onto a container (e.g., the container 104 of FIG. 1) via the threads 306. In the illustrated example, the cap 200 includes a septum 310 disposed within the opening 302 and held in place by a snap ring 312. The septum 310 can be made of any suitable material, such as silicone or rubber. The snap ring 312 is wedged (e.g., by a press fit, by a tab) between the inside of the rim 308 and the bulkhead 310. In the examples shown in Figures 2A-2C, the rim is shown as multiple separate extensions. In other examples, such as the example shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the rim is a continuous wall extending from the lid 300.

[0029] In the illustrated example, the cap 200 has a wall or flange 314 extending outwardly from the side wall 304. The flange 314 is substantially parallel to the lid 300. An outer wall 316 extends upwardly from the flange 314 in a direction parallel to the side wall 304. The outer wall 316 has a number of ribs 318 that allow a user to grip the cap 200 (e.g., when tightening or loosening the cap 200 on a container). A lower side wall 320 extends downwardly from the flange 314 and has a number of ratchet grooves 322 that allow the cap 200 to be securely ratcheted onto the container and prevent the cap 200 from coming loose from the container. The cap 200 may be constructed of any suitable material, such as, for example, polypropylene.

[0030] FIG. 4 shows a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary cradle 102. The container 104 has been removed for clarity. To drain the contents of a container (e.g., container 104 of FIG. 1), the cradle 102 has a puncture drain probe 400 (e.g., a needle) that can pierce a cap and / or a septum on the cap (e.g., cap 200 of FIG. 3A) and be inserted into the container. The drain probe 400 is coupled to a probe mount 402 (e.g., an insert molded probe assembly) that extends through an opening 404 in the bottom wall 106 of the housing 105. The drain probe 400 extends or protrudes upwardly and away from the bottom wall 106 within an opening 406 defined by the bottom wall 106 and the side wall 108. In the illustrated example, the cradle 102 includes a vent probe 408 disposed adjacent to the drain probe 400. The vent probe 408 is for venting the interior of the container to prevent a vacuum from forming inside the container while the contents are being drained. The vent probe 408 is coupled to the probe mount 402. The probe mount 402 includes passages that couple the probes 400, 408 to first and second barbs 410, 412, respectively (e.g., nipples, fittings, adapters, barbed connectors, etc.) on the outside of the bottom wall 106. Hoses or tubes may be coupled to the first and second barbs 410, 412 to fluidly couple the drain probe 400 and / or vent probe 408 to a desired location (e.g., an on-board tank). An exemplary probe mount 402 showing the drain probe 400, vent probe 408, and the first and second barbs 410, 412 is shown in FIG. 5.

[0031] 4, to prevent an unintended container from being inserted into the housing 105 and punctured and drained, the exemplary cradle 102 includes a slide lock 414 slidably disposed within an opening 406 of the housing 105. FIG. 6A shows a top perspective view of the slide lock 414, and FIG. 6B shows a bottom perspective view of the slide lock 414, which are numbered according to the disclosure herein. The slide lock 414 has an engagement surface 416 for receiving a cap or top of a container (e.g., contacted by the cap or top of the container). The engagement surface 416 has an opening 418 for receiving a probe 400, 408 when the slide lock 414 is moved downwardly or toward the bottom wall 106 (e.g., from a first position to a second position). The slide lock 414 is movable along a first axis 419 (e.g., the longitudinal axis of the housing 105). When the sliding lock 414 is moved downward (e.g., when a container having a matching key ring is inserted), the probes 400, 408 extend through the openings 418 to puncture the cap and / or septum of the container. In the illustrated example of FIG. 4, the sliding lock 414 is in a first or disengaged position where the probes 400, 408 are disposed below the engagement surface 416. In this manner, an operator cannot accidentally pierce themselves. The sliding lock 414 is movable from a first position to a second position (disclosed in further detail herein) where the engagement surface 416 is below the tip of the probes 400, 408.

[0032] In the illustrated example, the sliding lock 414 has an outer wall 420 that is in the shape of a cylinder or sleeve. The outer wall 420 matches the shape of the opening 406 defined by the side wall 106 of the housing 105. However, in other embodiments, the outer wall 420 of the sliding lock 414 may be shaped differently. For example, the outer wall 420 may be substantially square or triangular in shape.

[0033] To prevent the slide lock 414 from being depressed toward the bottom wall 106 by an undesired container (e.g., a container having the wrong liquid), the cradle 102 includes a first lockout 422 (e.g., a lock button, a lockout slider) and a second lockout 424 (FIGS. 8 and 9) that are disposed in the side wall 108 of the housing 105 and extend into the outer wall 420 of the slide lock 414. The first and second lockouts 422, 424 prevent the slide lock 414 from moving toward the bottom wall 106, thereby allowing the probes 400, 408 to extend through the slide lock 414 to puncture the cap and / or septum of the container. The first and second lockouts 422, 424 are movable between a locked position (illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 8) and an unlocked position (illustrated in FIG. 9). The first and second lockouts 422, 424 are disposed within respective openings 426, 428 (seen more clearly in FIGS. 8 and 9) in the sidewall 108. The first and second lockouts 422, 424 are biased by respective first and second springs 430, 432 (seen more clearly in FIGS. 8 and 9) toward the center of the cradle 102 along a second axis 433 that is perpendicular to the first axis 419 along which the sliding lock 416 moves. Retaining caps 434, 436 (e.g., retention buttons) are removably coupled to the respective openings 426, 428 (e.g., to provide access to the first and second lockouts 422, 424 and the first and second springs 430, 432). In the locked position, the first and second lockouts 422, 424 extend (e.g., are inserted) into respective first and second notches 600, 602 (FIGS. 6A and 6B) in the outer wall 420 of the sliding lock 414. As a result, the sliding lock 414 is prevented from moving upwardly or downwardly, and thus the probes 400, 408 cannot be exposed through the openings 418.

[0034] 4, the first and second lockouts 422, 424 are located opposite one another on the sidewall 108. However, in other examples, the first and second lockouts 422, 424 are disposed in other locations (e.g., closer to one another) and / or at different lengths or heights along the sidewall 108. In some examples, only one lockout is implemented. In other examples, three or more lockouts are implemented.

[0035] To release the first and second lockouts 422, 424, the cradle 102 includes a trigger 438 disposed between the sliding lock 414 and the bottom wall 106 (e.g., below the engagement surface 416 of the sliding lock 414). FIG. 7A shows a top perspective view of the trigger 438, and FIG. 7B shows a bottom perspective view of the trigger 438, which are numbered according to the disclosure herein. The trigger 438 has an engagement surface 440 that is parallel to the engagement surface 416 of the sliding lock 414. The engagement surface 440 of the trigger 438 has an opening 442 that is concentric with the opening 418 of the sliding lock 414. As shown in FIG. 4, the trigger 438 is movable along a first axis 419. As shown in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, the trigger 438 has a first tab 700 having a slanted or angled surface and a second tab 702 having a slanted or angled surface. In the illustrated example, the first and second tabs 700, 702 extend outwardly from the engagement surface 440. As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the sliding lock 414 has a first slot 604 and a second slot 606 that receive the first and second tabs 700, 702, respectively, of the trigger 438. The first and second slots 604, 604 intersect the first and second notches 600, 602, respectively. Thus, when the trigger 438 is moved toward the bottom wall 106, the first and second tabs 700, 702 engage the first and second lockouts 422, 424, respectively, and push the first and second lockouts 422, 424 outward (e.g., along the second axis 433) such that the first and second lockouts 422, 424 disengage from the first and second notches 600, 602 in the outer wall 420 of the sliding lock 414. As a result, the sliding lock 414 can move downward toward the bottom wall 106.

[0036] The sliding lock 414 has a key slot 446 in the engagement surface 416 to move the trigger 438 (disposed below the engagement surface 416 of the sliding lock 414) downward to disengage the first and second lockouts 422, 424. The key slot 446 is an opening having a shape that corresponds to a cap's key ring, among other things. When a cap with a matching or corresponding key ring is inserted into the cradle 102, the key ring fits into the key slot 446 and engages the trigger 438 (e.g., the engagement surface 440 of the trigger 438), moving the trigger 438 toward the bottom wall 106, thus releasing the first and second lockouts 422, 424 from the sliding lock 414. Once the first and second lockouts 422, 424 are disengaged, the sliding lock 414 is free to be pushed toward the bottom wall 106. When the slide lock 414 is moved downward, the probes 400, 408 extend through the openings 418 and engage the cap of the container. In the illustrated example, the key slot 446 is a ring-shaped slot. However, in other examples, the key slot 446 may be any other shape (e.g., triangular, square, star-shaped, etc.) and / or other size that corresponds to a particular key shape on the cap of the container.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the key slot 446 divides the engagement surface 416 into an inner surface 608 and an outer surface 610. The inner surface 608 and the outer surface 610 are coupled together via a support bar 612. The support bar 612 includes a notch 614 at the intersection of the key slot 416 to accommodate a key ring when the key ring is inserted into the key slot 416, thereby allowing the key ring to engage with the trigger 438. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the trigger 438 has a slot 704 in the engagement surface 440 to receive the support bar 612 when the trigger 438 is disposed below the sliding lock 414 (e.g., as shown in the position of FIG. 4). In the illustrated example of FIG. 6A, the engagement surface 416 of the sliding lock 414 includes a recess 613 to receive the rim 308 of the cap 200 (FIG. 3).

[0038] In the illustrated example of FIG. 4, the cradle 102 includes a first spring 448 (e.g., a resilient member, a return spring, and / or any other suitable biasing device) disposed between the bottom wall 106 and the sliding lock 414 to bias the sliding lock 414 upward and away from the bottom wall 106. The first spring 448 exerts an upward force to remove the bottle 104 from the cradle 102. In the illustrated example, the cradle 102 includes a second spring 450 disposed between the bottom wall 106 and the trigger 440 to bias the trigger 400 upward and away from the bottom wall 106. In other examples, other mechanisms can be used to bias the sliding lock 414 and / or the trigger 438.

[0039] To secure the container to the cradle 102 after it has been inserted and moved downwardly so that the probes 400, 408 are disposed within the container, a latch 118 (e.g., a sliding latch, lever, trigger) is provided to engage a lip or rim on the container's cap to prevent the container from being pushed upwardly (e.g., by the first spring 448 and / or the second spring 450). The latch 118 moves along a third axis 453 (FIGS. 4 and 10) that is perpendicular to the first axis 419 along which the sliding lock 414 moves. The latch 118 has an angled edge 454. When the release button 120 is pressed downward, the angled edge 456 of the release button 120 engages the angled edge 454 of the latch 118, causing the latch 118 to move outward (e.g., away from the center of the cradle 102) along the third axis 453. As a result, the latch 118 releases the rim or lip of the cap and the container is free to be removed from the cradle 102 (eg, by the force provided by the first and second springs 448, 450).

[0040] 8 shows a cross-sectional view (along line AA in FIG. 1) of the cradle 102 and container 104 of FIG. 1 when the container 104 is in a first position and the container 104 is inserted into the cradle 102. In the illustrated example, the container 104 is inverted and placed in the opening 112 defined by the container holder 110. In the illustrated example, the cap 200 of FIG. 2C is screwed (e.g., via threads 306) onto the opening 800 (e.g., spout) of the container 104. As shown in the example of FIG. 8, the first and second lockouts 422, 424 disposed in the first and second openings 426, 428 of the wall 108, respectively, are biased inwardly toward the center of the cradle 102 by the first and second springs 430, 432. The first and second lockouts 422, 424 are movable along a second axis 433 that is perpendicular to the first axis 419 along which the sliding lock 414 moves. In the illustrated example, the first and second lockouts 422, 424 are in a locked or engaged position where they are inserted into first and second notches 600, 602, respectively, in the outer wall 420 of the sliding lock 414. As a result, the sliding lock 414 is prevented from moving upwardly or downwardly within the housing 105.

[0041] In the illustrated example, the cap 200 is a mating cap that allows the container 104 to be inserted into the cradle 102 and move the slide lock 414. In particular, the key ring 202 of the cap 200 matches the shape of a corresponding key slot 446 in the engagement surface 416 of the slide lock 414. Thus, when the container 104 is pressed down into the cradle 102, the key ring 202 extends through the key slot 446 and engages the engagement surface 440 of the trigger 438. The outer wall 316 of the cap 200 is received by the outer wall 420 of the slide lock 414, aligning the cap 200 within the slide lock 414.

[0042] 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view (taken along line AA in FIG. 1 ) of the cradle 102 and container 104 when the container 104 is in a second position in which the container 104 is partially inserted into the cradle 102 (e.g., when the container 104 is pushed further into the cradle 102 than in the position of FIG. 8 ). As shown, the lid 300 of the cap 200 engages the engagement surface 416 of the sliding lock 414, and the key ring 202 is inserted into the key slot 446 and engages the engagement surface 440 of the trigger 438 to move the trigger 438 downwardly toward the bottom wall 106. The ramped surfaces of the first and second tabs 700, 702 of the trigger 438 engage the first and second lockouts 422, 424, respectively, and push the first and second lockouts 422, 424 outwardly (e.g., along the second axis 433) and away from the first and second notches 600, 602 in the outer wall 420 of the sliding lock 414. As a result, the sliding lock 414 is free to move (e.g., with the trigger 438) downwardly toward the bottom wall 106 (e.g., along the first axis 419). As the container 104 and sliding lock 414 move downwardly toward the bottom wall 106, the probes 400, 408 (see FIG. 4) extend through the openings 418 in the sliding lock 414, puncture the septum 310 in the cap 200, and extend into the opening 800 of the container 104. In some examples, a pump is activated that creates a suction force within the drain probe 400 to actively remove the liquid contents of the container 104. In other examples, the contents of the container 104 may be drained by gravity (e.g., without the aid of a pump).

[0043] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the cradle 102 and container 104 taken along line BB in FIG. 1. In the illustrated example, the container 104 is in a third position in which the container is fully inserted into the cradle 102. Additionally, the sliding lock 414 is in an engaged or second position. After the container 104 is fully inserted, the latch 118 extends inwardly toward the center of the cradle 102 and over the flange 314 of the cap 200, thereby preventing the container 104 from being released from the cradle 102 (e.g., by the force of the first and second springs 448, 450 (FIG. 4)). The latch 118 is movable along a third axis 453 that is perpendicular to the first axis 419 along which the sliding lock 414 moves. A spring 1000 is coupled between the latch 118 and the sidewall 108 to bias the latch 118 inwardly toward the center of the cradle 102. In the illustrated example, the drain probe 400 and the vent probe 408 extend through an opening 418 in the slide lock 414, through the opening 302 of the cap 200 (and the septum 310), and into the opening 800 of the container 104. The contents of the container 104 may then be drained through the drain probe 400. To prevent a vacuum from forming inside the container 104, a positive pressure of air may be supplied from the vent probe 408. In the illustrated example, the vent probe 408 extends longer or farther than the drain probe 400. However, in other examples, the probes 400, 408 may be of equal length or height. In other examples, the probes 400, 408 may be longer or shorter and thus may extend further into the container 104 or may extend shorter into the container 104.

[0044] In the illustrated example, the sensor 128 measures the level of liquid in the container 104. The sensor 128 can sense when the container 104 is low on liquid contents and / or empty. In the illustrated example, the sensor 128 is a capacitive sensor and can sense through the walls of the housing 105 and through the walls of the container 104 to sense the level of liquid in the container 104. In other examples, other types of liquid sensors can be implemented.

[0045] When the container 104 is empty or when it is desired to remove the container 104 (e.g., upon collection or expiration of the contents of the container 104), the release button 120 may be depressed or pushed downward. When the release button 120 moves downward, the angled edge 456 of the release button 120 engages the angled edge 454 of the latch 118, pushing the latch 118 outward along the third axis 453 and retracting. In the illustrated example, a spring 1002 is disposed within the release button channel 122 that biases the release button 120 upward or away from the latch 118. When the latch 118 is moved outward or away from the center of the cradle 102, the latch 118 moves away from the flange 314 and the sliding lock 414 moves upward and away from the bottom wall 106 (e.g., by the force of the first spring 458 (FIG. 4)) to allow the container 104 to be removed.

[0046] In the illustrated example, as illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B, the sliding lock 414 has a first tab 616 and a second tab 618 (e.g., ears) that protrude or extend outwardly from the outer wall 420. When assembling the cradle 102, the sliding lock 414 is inserted into the housing 105 and the first and second tabs 616, 618 flex inwardly. Once inserted, the first and second tabs 616, 618 protrude outwardly into respective first and second slots 1004, 1006 in the side wall 108. The first and second tabs 616, 616 prevent the sliding lock 414 from being pushed upwardly out of the housing 105 (e.g., by the first spring 448). In some instances, a tool is required to bend the first and second tabs 616, 618 back inward to remove the slide lock 414 from the housing 105. As shown in FIGURE 10, the cradle 102 has a drainage barb 1008 extending from the bottom wall 106. The drainage barb 1008 allows liquid to drain from the bottom of the housing 105, for example, if excess liquid spills onto the bottom of the housing 105.

[0047] Figure 11 shows a bottom perspective view of the cradle 102, and Figure 12 shows a close-up view of the latch 118 shown in Figure 11. The vessel holder 110, the first and second barbs 410, 412, the probe mount 402 and the drain barb 1008 are shown in Figure 11. As shown in Figure 12, the latch 118 has an opening 1200 for receiving the beveled edge 456 of the release button 120 when the release button 120 is pressed downwardly.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 10-12, the latch 118 has a leg 1010 having a notch 1012. The leg 1010 is received by a position sensor 126. The sensor 126 determines the position of the latch 118 (e.g., based on the location of the notch 1012). When the latch 118 is fully engaged (such as the position shown in FIG. 10), the sensor 126 can determine that the latch 118 is properly engaged and the container 104 is secured within the cradle 102. In another form, the sensor 126 can determine that the latch 118 is partially engaged (e.g., when the sliding lock 414 is moved toward the bottom wall 106) and / or disengaged (e.g., when the release button 120 is depressed and the latch 118 is fully retracted, the sliding lock 414 is in the uppermost position, and the latch 118 engages the outer wall 420 of the sliding lock 414). In some examples, the position sensor 126 is an optical sensor. In other examples, other types of sensors may be implemented. The position sensor 126 and the level sensor 128 are communicatively coupled (eg, wired or wirelessly) to the circuit board 124.

[0049] In some examples, one or more light sources are provided in the release button 120 to indicate different or multiple states of the container 104 and / or cradle 102. FIG. 13 shows an exemplary cradle 102 in which the housing 105 and container holder 110 are shown as transparent. In the illustrated example, a light source 1300 is disposed in the release button 120. The light source 1300 can flash or light up and / or use different colors depending on the state of the container 104 and / or cradle 102. For example, when the container 104 is fully inserted and the latch 118 is in the locked position (FIGS. 10-12), the release button 120 can be illuminated by the light source 1300 in a particular color (e.g., green). In some examples, when the container 104 is empty (e.g., as sensed by the sensor 128) or the liquid level is low, the release button 120 can be illuminated by the light source 1300 in another color (e.g., red). Additionally or alternatively, different sequences of blinking light sources may be used to indicate different states or conditions. In some examples, the release button 120 is transparent or translucent. In some examples, the light source 1300 is a light emitting diode (LED). In some examples, more than one light source (e.g., multiple LEDs) is implemented. Some examples may include a display that presents a human-readable indicia regarding such state or condition. The light source 1300 is communicatively coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly) to the circuit board 124.

[0050] 14A-14C show an example drawer 1400 of an automated diagnostic analyzer or instrument having a plurality of cradles 102. The drawer 1400 may be part of the body or chassis of the automated diagnostic analyzer or instrument and may be pulled out to view, add to, or replace containers in the cradles 102. Each of the cradles 102 may be coupled to the same or different on-board tanks that are filled with the liquid in the containers 104. In the illustrated example, the cradles 102 are arranged in a 3×3 pattern or grid (e.g., with one empty spot) of eight cradles 102. In other examples, the drawer 1300 may have more or fewer cradles 102 and / or the cradles 102 may be arranged in a different configuration (e.g., a 4×4 pattern). The cradles 102 may be configured to accept the same type of caps or different caps. For example, one or more of the cradles 102 may have a slide lock (e.g., slide lock 414 of FIG. 4) that only accepts the caps 200 of FIG. 2B having a medium diameter key ring 202, while others of the cradles 102 may have slide locks that only accept the caps 200 of FIG. 2C having the largest diameter key ring 202. Thus, the wrong liquid container cannot be fully inserted into the wrong cradle 102.

[0051] In some examples, when a container 104 is empty, the release button 120 of the corresponding cradle 102 may be illuminated (e.g., by an exemplary light source 1300 shown in FIG. 13). In some examples, the release button 120 illuminates different colors to indicate different states of operation. For example, the release button 120 may illuminate a particular color (e.g., red) when the corresponding container 104 is empty or low. In some examples, the release button 120 may illuminate a different color (e.g., yellow) when the container 104 is not fully inserted or is incorrectly inserted (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 9).

[0052] As shown in Figure 14B, the release button 120 can be depressed to release the latch of the corresponding cradle 102 (e.g., latch 118 of Figure 4) to remove the container 104. Once released, as shown in Figure 14C, the container 104 can then be removed from the corresponding cradle 102. Another container (e.g., having an appropriate matching cap) can be inserted and pushed into the cradle 102 to couple the replacement container to the cradle 102.

[0053] 15 is a block diagram of an exemplary bulk solution system 1500 that may be used to dispense liquid (e.g., bulk solution liquid for an automated diagnostic analyzer) from a first bottle or container to another bottle or container (e.g., an on-board tank). In the illustrated example, the bulk solution system 1500 includes a cradle 102 having a circuit board or processor 124, a latch position sensor 126, a liquid level sensor 128, and one or more indicators 1502, such as, for example, a light source.

[0054] In the illustrated example, the latch position sensor 126 detects or measures the position of the latch 118 (FIG. 1). The latch position sensor 126 can detect whether the latch 118 is in one or more positions. For example, the latch position sensor 126 can detect whether the latch 118 is in a fully engaged position (as shown in FIG. 10), partially engaged (e.g., when the sliding lock 414 (FIG. 9) is moved toward the bottom wall 106), and / or disengaged (e.g., when the sliding lock 414 is in the upper position as shown in FIG. 8). The latch position sensor 126 is communicatively coupled to the processor 124. The processor 124 can be used to control an indicator 1502 to indicate the position of the latch 118 detected by the latch position sensor 126. The indicator 1502 can correspond to a light source 1300 (FIG. 13), for example, that illuminates (e.g., flashes or illuminates continuously) different colors depending on the position of the latch 118.

[0055] In the illustrated example, the level sensor 128 senses or measures the level of liquid remaining in the container 104 (FIG. 1). The level sensor 128 is communicatively coupled to the processor 124. The processor 124 may be used to control the indicator 1502 to indicate when the level of liquid is low as sensed by the level sensor 128. For example, if the level sensor 128 determines that the liquid remaining is below a threshold value, the processor 124 may control the indicator 1300 to illuminate (e.g., flash red or yellow).

[0056] In the illustrated example, the cradle 102 is communicatively coupled to a control system 1504. The control system 1504 may be, for example, a system used to control an automated diagnostic analyzer. The control system 1504 is communicatively coupled to a pump 1506. Once the container is fully and properly inserted into the cradle 102, the processor 124 sends a message to the control system 1504 that the container is ready to be drained. The control system 1504 controls the pump 1506 to pump the contents of the container 104 (via the drain probe 400) from the container 104 to an on-board tank. In other examples, the cradle 102 may be communicatively coupled directly to the pump and may directly control the pump.

[0057] In the illustrated example, the latch position sensor 126, the fluid level sensor 128 and the indicator 1502 are communicatively coupled to the processor 124 (and / or each other) via communication link 1508, and the cradle is communicatively coupled to the control system 1504 and the pump 1506 via communication link 1510. The communication links 1508, 1510 may be any type of wired connection (e.g., data bus, USB connection, etc.) or a wireless communication mechanism (e.g., radio frequency, infrared, etc.) using any past, present, or future communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, etc.).

[0058] An exemplary method of implementing the bulk solution system 1500 is illustrated in Figure 15, although one or more of the elements, processes and / or devices illustrated in Figure 15 may be combined, divided, rearranged, omitted, eliminated, and / or implemented in any other manner. Additionally, the example processor 124, the example latch position sensor 126, the example liquid level sensor 128, the example indicator 1502, the example control system 1504, the example pump 1506, and / or more generally the example bulk solution system 1500 of Figure 15 may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Thus, for example, any of the exemplary processor 124, the exemplary latch position sensor 126, the exemplary liquid level sensor 128, the exemplary indicator 1502, the exemplary control system 1504, the exemplary pump 1506, and / or more generally the exemplary bulk solution system 1500 may be implemented by one or more analog or digital circuits, logic circuits, programmable processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or field programmable logic devices (FPLDs). When reading any of the apparatus or system claims of this patent to cover implementations of dedicated software and / or firmware, at least one of the exemplary processor 124 and / or the exemplary control system 1504 is expressly defined herein to include a tangible computer readable storage device or storage disk, such as a memory, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a compact disk (CD), a Blu-ray disk, etc., that stores the software and / or firmware. Additionally, the exemplary bulk solution system 1500 of FIG. 15 can include one or more elements, processes and / or devices in addition to or instead of those shown in FIG. 15, and / or can include two or more or all of any of the illustrated elements, processes and devices.

[0059] A flow chart depicting an exemplary method for implementing the exemplary bulk solution system 1500 is shown in FIG. 16. In this example, the method may be implemented using machine-readable instructions comprising a program for execution by a processor, such as the processor 1712 shown in the exemplary processor platform 1700 described below in connection with FIG. 17. The program may be embodied in software stored on a tangible computer-readable storage medium, such as a CD-ROM, a floppy disk, a hard drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD), a Blu-ray disk, or on a memory associated with the processor 1712, although the entire program and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed by devices other than the processor 1712 and / or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware. Additionally, although the exemplary program is described with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 16, many other methods of implementing the exemplary bulk solution system 1500 may alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks may be changed, and / or some of the described blocks may be changed, eliminated, or combined.

[0060] As discussed above, the exemplary method of FIG. 16 may be implemented using coded instructions (e.g., computer and / or machine readable instructions) stored on a tangible computer readable storage medium, such as a hard disk drive, flash memory, read only memory (ROM), compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), cache, random access memory (RAM), and / or any other storage device or storage disk in which information is stored for any period of time (e.g., for an extended period of time, permanently, for a short period of time, during temporary buffering and / or caching of information). As used herein, the term tangible computer readable storage medium is expressly defined to include any type of computer readable storage device and / or storage disk, to exclude propagating signals, and to exclude transmission media. As used herein, "tangible computer readable storage medium" and "tangible machine readable storage medium" are used interchangeably. Additionally or alternatively, the exemplary method of FIG. 16 may be implemented using coded instructions (e.g., computer and / or machine readable instructions) stored on a non-transitory computer and / or machine readable medium, such as a hard disk drive, a flash memory, a read-only memory, a compact disk, a digital versatile disk, a cache, a random access memory, and / or any other storage device or storage disk in which information is stored for any period of time (e.g., for an extended period of time, permanently, for a short period of time, during temporary buffering and / or caching of information). As used herein, the term non-transitory computer readable medium is expressly defined to include any type of computer readable storage device and / or storage disk, to exclude propagating signals, and to exclude transmission media. As used herein, the word "at least," when used as a transitional phrase in the preamble of a claim, is open-ended in the same way that the word "comprising" is open-ended.

[0061] FIG. 16 is a flow chart depicting an example method 1600 of coupling a container to a cradle that may be used to transfer liquid from one container to another, which may be implemented (at least in part) using the example cradle 102 of FIG. 1 and / or the bulk solution system 1500 of FIG. 15. In the illustrated example, the method 1600 includes coupling a cap having a key ring to the container (1602). For example, one of the caps 200 (FIG. 2) may be threaded onto the container 104 (FIG. 1). In other examples, the cap 200 may be coupled to the container 104 via other coupling techniques. In some examples, no cap is used. Instead, the container 104 may include a key ring extending from the container 104 (e.g., at or near the mouth 800).

[0062] The exemplary method 1600 includes inverting the container (1604) and inserting the container into the cradle (block 1606). For example, as shown in Figures 8, 9 and 10, the container 104 is inverted (e.g., upside down) and inserted into the cradle 104. If the cap 200 has the correct key ring 202, the key ring 202 extends through the key slot 446 and engages the trigger 438. In some examples, the container 104 may be inserted into the cradle 102 without being inverted or otherwise fluidly coupled to the cradle 102.

[0063] The exemplary method 1600 includes advancing the container into the cradle to expose the drain probe (block 1608). For example, as shown in Figures 8, 9 and 10, when the container 104 is advanced into the cradle 102, the key ring 202 presses the trigger 438 to disengage the first and second lockouts 422, 424, thereby allowing the sliding lock 414 to move toward the bottom wall 106. As the container 104 and sliding lock 414 move downward, the drain probe 400 extends through the opening 418 in the sliding lock 414 and punctures the cap 200.

[0064] The exemplary method 1600 includes determining whether the latch is in a fully engaged position (block 1610). If the latch is not in the fully engaged position, the container is advanced further into the cradle (block 1608). If the latch is in the fully engaged position, an indicator is activated (block 1612), such as illuminating with a light source to indicate that the container is ready to be drained. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the latch 118 is in a fully engaged position where the latch 118 extends over the flange 314 on the cap 200 to secure the container 104 in the cradle 102. The latch position sensor 126 determines the position of the latch 118. If the latch 118 is fully engaged, the indicator 1502 (FIG. 15) can be activated (e.g., by command from the processor 124) to indicate that the container 104 is properly inserted into the cradle 102 and is ready to be drained. In some examples, if the latch 118 is not fully engaged, another indicator 1502 (e.g., a light source of a different color) may be activated to indicate that the container 104 is not fully inserted into the cradle 102. In the example shown in Figures 1-14B, the indicator 1502 may correspond to the light source 1300 (Figure 13) disposed in the release button 120. However, in other examples, the indicator 1502 may be disposed in a different location on or near the cradle 102.

[0065] In the illustrated example of Figure 16, the method 1600 includes draining the contents of the container (block 1614). In some examples, the contents of the container 104 may be drained by gravity. In other examples, such as shown in Figure 15, a pump 1506 may be used to pump the liquid contents from the container 104. The pump 1506 may be controlled by the control system 1504 and / or the processor 126 of the cradle 102.

[0066] The exemplary method 1600 includes determining whether the level of liquid in the container is low (block 1616). If the level of liquid is not low, the contents of the container may be drained as desired (block 1614). If the level of liquid is low or empty, an indicator is activated to indicate that the container is low on liquid (block 1618). For example, the cradle 102 includes a liquid level sensor 128 that senses the level of liquid remaining in the container 104. If the level of liquid is low, an indicator 1502 (FIG. 15) is activated (e.g., a light source of a different color than the color used to indicate that the latch 118 is fully engaged is illuminated). For example, the indicator 1502 may be a light source (e.g., light source 1300 (FIG. 13)) that flashes red or yellow.

[0067] The exemplary method 1600 includes removing and removing the container from the cradle (block 1620), for example, by pressing a release button. For example, as shown in Figures 14A-14C, the release button 120 is pressed to remove the container 104 from the cradle 102. Another container having a cap with the correct key ring can then be inserted into the cradle 102. In some examples, the act of inserting the container 104 into the cradle 102 and depressing the container 104 until the latch 118 is in a fully engaged position is performed in a continuous motion (e.g., by an operator or technician).

[0068] The example method 1600 includes determining whether the container is to be replaced with an additional container having, for example, the same contents or different contents (block 1622). If the container is to be replaced, the example method 1600 continues with coupling a cap having a key to the new or replacement container (block 1602), etc. If the container is not to be replaced (block 1622), the example method 1600 ends (block 1624).

[0069] Figure 17 is a block diagram of an example processor platform 1700 capable of executing instructions for implementing the method 1600 of Figure 16 and the example bulk solution system 1500 of Figure 15. The processor platform 1700 can be, for example, a server, a personal computer, a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet such as an iPad®), a personal digital assistant (PDA), an Internet appliance, a DVD player, a CD player, a digital video recorder, a Blu-ray player, or any other type of computing device.

[0070] The processor platform 1700 of the illustrated example includes a processor 1712. The processor 1712 of the illustrated example is hardware. For example, the processor 1712 may be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, or controllers from any desired family or manufacturer.

[0071] The processor 1712 of the illustrated example includes a local memory 1713 (e.g., a cache). The processor 1712 of the illustrated example communicates with a main memory including a volatile memory 1714 and a non-volatile memory 1716 via a bus 1718. The volatile memory 1714 may be implemented by synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), RAMBUS dynamic random access memory (RDRAM), and / or any other type of random access memory device. The non-volatile memory 1716 may be implemented by flash memory and / or any other desired type of memory device. Access to the main memory 1714, 1716 is controlled by a memory controller.

[0072] The processor platform 1700 of the illustrated example also includes an interface circuit 1720. The interface circuit 1720 may be implemented with any type of interface standard, such as an Ethernet interface, a Universal Serial Bus (USB), and / or a PCI Express interface.

[0073] In the illustrated example, one or more input devices 1722 are connected to the interface circuit 1720. The input devices 1722 allow a user to input data and commands to the processor 1712. The input devices may be implemented, for example, by audio sensors, microphones, cameras (still or video), keyboards, buttons, mice, touch screens, track pads, track balls, isopoints, and / or voice recognition systems.

[0074] One or more output devices 1724 are also connected to the interface circuitry 1720 of the illustrated example. The output device(s) 1724 may be implemented, for example, by a display device (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display, a cathode ray tube display (CRT), a touch screen, a tactile output device, a printer, and / or a speaker). The interface circuitry 1720 of the illustrated example thus typically includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip, or a graphics driver processor.

[0075] The interface circuitry 1720 of the illustrated example also includes communications devices such as a transmitter, receiver, transceiver, modem, and / or network interface cards to facilitate data exchange with an external computer (e.g., any type of computing device) via a network 1726 (e.g., an Ethernet connection, a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), a telephone line, a coaxial cable, a cellular phone system, etc.).

[0076] The processor platform 1700 of the illustrated example also includes one or more mass storage devices 1728 for storing software and / or data. Examples of such mass storage devices 1728 include floppy disk drives, hard drive disks, compact disk drives, Blu-ray disk drives, RAID systems, and digital versatile disk (DVD) drives.

[0077] Coded instructions 1732 for implementing the method 1600 of FIG. 16 may be stored in the mass storage device 1728, the volatile memory 1714, the non-volatile memory 1716, and / or a removable tangible computer-readable storage medium such as a CD or DVD.

[0078] Although the exemplary cradle disclosed herein is described in the context of bulk solution liquids for an automated diagnostic analyzer, the exemplary cradle may be used inverted or upright in any application where liquid is drained from a bottle. From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the disclosed cradle described above provides a relatively safe means for puncturing the cap and / or septum on a container and draining the liquid contents therein. The exemplary cradle employs a unique locking system that prevents a bottle having an incorrect cap from being (e.g., accidentally) inserted into the cradle and drained. Additionally, the exemplary cradle includes a sensor that determines whether the container is fully and properly inserted into the cradle and / or the level of liquid remaining in the container.

[0079] Although certain exemplary apparatus and methods, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. To the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. 1. A cap for a fluid container for use in a diagnostic analyzer, the cap comprising: a lid having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and an opening extending between the first side and the second side; an annular sidewall extending from a first side of the lid, the annular sidewall having internal threads adapted to engage threads on the container; a key ring extending from the second side of the lid; The key ring surrounds the opening, the key ring has a shape that corresponds to a key slot of a cradle of a diagnostic analyzer to allow the cradle to dispense liquid from a container when a capped container is inserted into the cradle; The cap further includes a flange extending radially outward from the annular sidewall, the flange being engaged by the latch when the cap is inserted into the cradle to lock the cap within the cradle.

2. The cap of claim 1 , wherein the flange is parallel to the lid.

3. 2. The cap of claim 1, wherein the annular sidewall is an inner annular sidewall, the cap further including an outer annular sidewall extending from the flange, the inner annular sidewall being within a diameter of and concentric with the outer annular sidewall.

4. The cap of claim 3 , wherein the flange extends radially outward beyond the outer annular wall.

5. The cap of claim 3 , wherein the outer annular sidewall is parallel to the inner annular sidewall.

6. The cap of claim 3 further comprising a plurality of ribs on an outer surface of the outer annular sidewall.

7. The cap of claim 3 further comprising a plurality of supports extending between the outer annular sidewall and the inner annular sidewall.

8. 4. The cap of claim 3, wherein the flange has a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the outer annular sidewall extending from the first side of the flange, and the cap further includes a lower annular sidewall extending from the second side of the flange.

9. 9. The cap of claim 8, wherein the inner surface of the lower annular sidewall has a plurality of ratchet grooves that enable the cap to be ratcheted onto the container.

10. The cap of claim 1 further comprising a septum within the opening.

11. The cap of claim 10 further comprising a snap ring for securing the septum in the opening.

12. 10. The cap of claim 1, wherein the cap further includes an annular lip extending from a second side of the lid, the annular lip surrounding the opening, the annular lip being within a diameter of and concentric with the key ring.

13. 1. A cap for a fluid container for use in a diagnostic analyzer, the cap comprising: A lid having an opening; an inner annular sidewall extending from the lid; a flange extending radially outwardly from the inner annular sidewall; an outer annular sidewall extending from the flange such that the inner annular sidewall is within a diameter of and concentric with the outer annular sidewall; a key ring extending from the outer annular sidewall; Including, The key ring has a shape that corresponds to a key slot of a cradle of a diagnostic analyzer so that when a capped container is inserted into the cradle, the cradle can drain liquid from the container.

14. 14. The cap of claim 13, wherein the flange extends radially beyond the outer annular sidewall and is engaged by a latch when the cap is inserted into the cradle to lock the cap in the cradle.

15. 14. The cap of claim 13, wherein the inner annular sidewall has internal threads that engage threads on the container.

16. 1. A cap for a fluid container for use in a diagnostic analyzer, the cap comprising: An annular outer wall; an annular inner wall disposed within a diameter of the annular outer wall; a surface coupled to a top of an annular inner wall, said surface defining a plane, at least a portion of said annular outer wall and said annular inner wall being on a first side of said plane; a key ring extending from the surface or from the top of the annular outer wall, the key ring extending from the surface being on a second side of the planar surface opposite the first side, or the key ring extending from the top of the annular outer wall being on the second side of the planar surface; an opening in a center of the cap, the opening extending through said surface, with a key ring, an annular inner wall, and an annular outer wall surrounding the opening; a flange extending perpendicularly from the annular outer wall, the flange having a flat surface; Including cap.

17. 17. The cap of claim 16, wherein the cap further includes a lower sidewall extending from the flange, the lower sidewall including a groove to prevent loosening of the cap.

18. 18. The cap of claim 17, wherein the groove is a ratchet groove.

19. 17. The cap of claim 16, wherein the annular outer wall extends a first distance from the flange, the annular inner wall extends a first distance from the flange, and the key ring extends a second distance from the flange, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

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