Cartridge and instrument for testing biological samples

Abstract

An example cartridge has an opening for a dispenser used to inject a sample fluid into the cartridge, a reservoir to receive the sample fluid, and a view window through which the sample fluid is viewable to a user of the cartridge. A member coupled to the view window at a predetermined position may indicate an amount of fluid suitable for a diagnostic test performed by the cartridge. The cartridge may include surfaces angled with respect to the each other to define a slope for flow of sample fluid down from the opening when the cartridge is upright. An instrument may include a physical interface to hold a cartridge during sample injection, and provide a user interface with prompts corresponding to injection of sample fluid and / or performance of the diagnostic test. A sensor may detect a state of the cartridge or its contents before, during, and / or after the diagnostic test.

Description

CARTRIDGE AND INSTRUMENT FOR TESTING BIOLOGICAL SAMPLESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] None.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present implementations relate generally to diagnostic devices, including but not limited to a cartridge and instrument for testing biological samples.INTRODUCTION

[0003] Patients and medical providers increasingly demand higher performance in identification of various patient conditions and pathogens. For example, patients can demand rapid and highly accurate results, with a minimal amount of retesting, and medical providers can demand high-efficiency with a minimal amount of waste in collected samples and consumables involved in identification of patient conditions. However, those who conduct processes to evaluate specimens are at risk of wasting samples and consumables if a quantity of a sample used to identify a condition does not conform to a particular required amount. In addition, such quantities can vary based on the type of condition under evaluation, further increasing risk of failure of the evaluation and loss of the sample, the consumable, or both.SUMMARY

[0004] This technical solution is directed to at least to a cartridge structure having internal and external components structured to mitigate and eliminate user error during deposition of sample fluid, and to mitigate and eliminate fluid dispersion that can contribute to user error. For example, this technical solution includes a reservoir structure having multiple portions each oriented to accept and transmit sample fluid to eliminate incorrect indications of fluid quantity caused by bubbles in, foaming of, or surface tension of a sample fluid dropped into the reservoir. The technical solution can include a view window located adjacent to a portion of the reservoir and oriented to be visible to a user operating a dropper to deposit a sample fluid into the reservoir. The view window can include one or more members indicating one or more corresponding amounts of sample fluid that are to be entered to produce an accurate result according to a particular diagnostic. The location of the members along the view window or reservoir can vary according to a type of diagnostic, and can provide a technicalimprovement of being located based on the type of diagnostic. Thus, a technical solution for a cartridge structure to indicate a sample fluid amount is provided.

[0005] At least one aspect is directed to a cartridge configured for a diagnostic test. The cartridge can include a chamber having an upper portion and a lower portion, the chamber defining an opening structured to receive a portion of a dispenser for injection of a sample fluid into the upper portion, and the lower portion defining a reservoir to receive the sample fluid from the upper portion. The cartridge can include a view window through which the sample fluid received in the reservoir is viewable to a user of the cartridge. The cartridge can include a member coupled to the view window at a predetermined position indicative of an amount of the sample fluid suitable for the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

[0006] At least one aspect is directed to a system that can include a cartridge. The system can include a first portion at least partially defining an opening configured to receive a portion of a dispenser that injects a sample fluid into the cartridge. The system can include a second portion having a first surface and a second surface angled with respect to the first surface to define a slope for flow of sample fluid down from the first opening when the cartridge is upright. The system can include a reservoir structured to hold the sample fluid from the second portion.

[0007] At least one aspect is directed to a device can include a physical interface to receive a cartridge at least according to, but not limited to, present implementations. The apparatus can include one or more input / output (I / O) components. The apparatus can include a controller configured to provide, via the one or more I / O components, a user interface configured to present one or more prompts corresponding to the diagnostic test and receive one or more inputs.

[0008] At least one aspect is related to contamination and / or droplet mitigation. For example, various embodiments comprise design aspects to minimize or otherwise reduce the likelihood of a user spilling fluid outside a sample chamber. Because droplets are not left behind, the spreading of droplets is reduced. In example embodiments, a dropper tip may be fully inserted into a chamber through an upper portion. A sliding cap may be incorporated to cover not just an opening, but the entire (potentially contaminated) top surface with a cartridge inlet. A cap for the cartridge may be designed so as to not “snap” closed as a result of a high energyrelease (which could fling or otherwise disperse droplets left behind), but instead have a gradual, controlled compression to seal.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0009] These and other aspects and features of the present implementations are depicted by way of example in the figures discussed herein. Present implementations can be directed to, but are not limited to, examples depicted in the figures discussed herein. Thus, this disclosure is not limited to any figure or portion thereof depicted or referenced herein, or any aspect described herein with respect to any figures depicted or referenced herein.

[0010] FIG. 1 A depicts a system, in accordance with example implementations.

[0011] FIG. IB depicts a system, in accordance with example implementations.

[0012] FIG. 1C depicts a system, in accordance with example implementations.

[0013] FIG. 2A depicts a cartridge environment, in accordance with example implementations.

[0014] FIG. 2B depicts a cartridge environment, in accordance with example implementations.

[0015] FIG. 3 A depicts a cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with example implementations.

[0016] FIG. 3B depicts a cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with example implementations.

[0017] FIG. 3C depicts a cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with example implementations.

[0018] FIG. 3D depicts a cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with example implementations.

[0019] FIG. 4A depicts a cartridge environment in plan view, in accordance with example implementations.

[0020] FIG. 4B depicts a cartridge environment in plan view, in accordance with example implementations.

[0021] FIG. 5 depicts a cartridge panel, in accordance with example implementations.

[0022] FIG. 6 depicts a user interface for cartridge environment, in accordance with example implementations.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Aspects of this technical solution are described herein with reference to the figures, which are illustrative examples of this technical solution. The figures and examples below are not meant to limit the scope of this technical solution to the present implementations or to a single implementation, and other implementations in accordance with present implementations are possible, for example, by way of interchange of some or all of the described or illustrated elements. Where certain elements of the present implementations can be partially or fully implemented using known components, only those portions of such known components that are necessary for an understanding of the present implementations are described, and detailed descriptions of other portions of such known components are omitted to not obscure the present implementations. Terms in the specification and claims are to be ascribed no uncommon or special meaning unless explicitly set forth herein. Further, this technical solution and the present implementations encompass present and future known equivalents to the known components referred to herein by way of description, illustration, or example.

[0024] Aspects of this technical solution are directed to a cartridge that receives sample fluids to be tested. The cartridge may include components with structures to mitigate erroneous indications of amounts of sample fluid, during deposition of the sample fluid. A diagnostic testing architecture can include a single-use or limited-use cartridge that includes one or more contents that can interact with a sample fluid to perform a particular medical diagnostic by triggering one or more physical reactions with at least a portion of a sample fluid deposited at the cartridge. For example, contents can correspond to chemicals, liquids, or solids having particular chemical, biological, electrical, or mechanical properties, or any combination thereof. The diagnostic testing architecture can include a diagnostic testing device (e.g., an instrument) to detect the results or effects of one or more interactions with the sample fluid at the cartridge, and can determine and output one or more results corresponding to the resultsor effects of the one or more interactions. Thus, this technical solution can include one or more components including but not limited to one or more of a cartridge configured according to a particular diagnostic test, a dropper operable to deposit a sample fluid to the cartridge or a component thereof, and a diagnostic device to exchange signals with the cartridge and generate or output an indication corresponding to receipt of the sample fluid and / or to an interaction between the sample fluid and one or more portions of the cartridge.

[0025] At least one aspect is directed to one or more components that can be combined or assembled, for example, to form a cartridge configured to perform a particular diagnostic. For example, a cartridge can include one or more zones that can include one or more contents as discussed herein, according to a diagnostic to be performed. For example, a diagnostic can correspond to a medical diagnostic. For example, a medical diagnostic can include one or more tests for the presence of indicators of a molecule, microorganism, disease, or condition. In an example, a cartridge may comprise one or more diagnostic tests to detect indicators of one or more viruses (or components thereof) that can cause one or more diseases such as COVID-19, influenza, etc.. The cartridge can include a body including one or more zones having one or more contents, and a panel portion including one or more indicators corresponding to a particular diagnostic. For example, a body having a reservoir integrated therewith can couple with a panel having a view window that can be aligned with a portion of the reservoir, in accordance with an attachment of the body with the panel. The panel can include one or more members that can be positioned at one or more locations relative to the reservoir to indicate various fill levels of the reservoir. The fill levels may indicate amounts of sample fluid suitable for performing a particular diagnostic. For example, the panel can be configured to include one or more of a minimum fill indicator and / or a maximum fill indicator that can align with the reservoir of the body and that can be positioned based on how much of a sample fluid is to be injected into the cartridge for the diagnostic. Thus, the panel can provide a technical solution to customize one or more indicators corresponding to a particular diagnostic.

[0026] At least one aspect is directed to a cartridge that can include a reservoir and an inlet structured to receive sample fluid, and to minimize or eliminate dispersion of the fluid in a manner that can result in an incorrect indication of sample fluid in the view window corresponding to the reservoir. For example, a user can input a sample fluid into a cartridge via an inlet located at an upper portion of the cartridge while concurrently viewing the viewwindow and a portion of the reservoir aligned with the view window. The reservoir can include a transparent or translucent material to permit viewing of the sample fluid within the reservoir from the view window. The user can also view, at the view window, one or more members indicating at least one of a minimum fill level or a maximum fill level of the reservoir. The user can deposit sample fluid into the reservoir via the inlet while viewing the view window and the members to ensure that a fill level of the sample fluid in the reservoir appears above or below the members. This technical solution can accurately indicate a fill level of a reservoir during the deposit of the sample fluid, at least by a structure of the reservoir to minimize or eliminate dispersion of the sample fluid that may cause a fill level to appear dispersed or unclear. For example, formation of bubbles during depositing of a sample fluid can result in a layer of foam that may cause the volume of a fluid in the reservoir to appear incorrectly greater than its actual volume. Thus, this technical solution can provide at least a technical improvement to eliminate dispersion of a fluid during deposition to decrease risk of incorrect fluid sample deposit by a user to a cartridge, and thus reduce or eliminate waste of cartridge devices, biological specimens, or any combination thereof.

[0027] FIG. 1 A depicts an example system, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 1A, an example system 100 A can include at least a diagnostic cartridge 110, a diagnostic device 120, and a dropper 130A.

[0028] The diagnostic cartridge 110 can receive and interact with a sample fluid by one or more components thereof. For example, the diagnostic cartridge 110 can include one or more portions corresponding to zones, chambers, channels, reservoirs, containers, or any combination thereof. The diagnostic cartridge 110 can include one or more contents corresponding to chemicals, biochemicals, liquids, solutions, powders, materials, or any combination thereof, that can be present at or transferable between one or more of portions of the diagnostic cartridge 110. The diagnostic cartridge 110 can include one or more components that can interact with one or more corresponding components of the diagnostic device 120. For example, the diagnostic cartridge 110 can include a heating element that can be placed in contact with or proximate to a heating element of the diagnostic device 120, to heat content of a portion of the diagnostic cartridge 110. The diagnostic cartridge 110 can have a structure corresponding to a rectangular shape of a size corresponding to a palm. The diagnostic cartridge 110 can have a height greater than a width of the diagnostic cartridge 110, and a depth greater than a height of the diagnostic cartridge 110.

[0029] For example, the diagnostic cartridge 110 can be at least partially insertable into the diagnostic device 120. For example, the device can include a sensor configured to detect a state of the cartridge or its contents. For example, the device 120 can detect whether the cartridge 110 is fully inserted into the diagnostic device 120 by an optical sensor or the like. For example, the device 120 can detect whether one or more portions of the cartridge are filled or ready for performance of a diagnostic test, by one or more sensors configured to detect fill level of one or more portions.

[0030] The diagnostic cartridge 110 can couple with the dropper 130A via an inlet disposed at a surface of the diagnostic cartridge 110. For example, the inlet can be disposed at a top surface of the diagnostic cartridge 110, when the diagnostic cartridge 110 is oriented to be inserted into the diagnostic device 120. For example, the cartridge is configured to couple to a device configured to provide a user interface presenting at least one of an indication of an amount of the sample fluid in the cartridge or a status of the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge. For example, the cartridge has a physical interface configured to couple the cartridge to a holding device configured to hold the cartridge upright during injection of the sample fluid.

[0031] The diagnostic device 120 can interact with the diagnostic cartridge 110 and can generate one or more indications corresponding to one or more interactions with the diagnostic cartridge 110. The diagnostic device 120 can include one or more electrical and electronic components to initiate, control, and / or stop one or more interactions, and to generate one or more indications. For example, the diagnostic device 120 can include one or more sensor devices, motors, actuators, processors, displays, or any combination thereof. The diagnostic device 120 can include a receptacle having a width corresponding to a width of the diagnostic cartridge 110, and a height corresponding to a height of the diagnostic cartridge 110. The diagnostic device 120 can include one or more logical or electronic devices including but not limited to integrated circuits, logic gates, flip flops, gate arrays, programmable gate arrays, and the like. One or more electrical, electronic, or like devices, or components associated with the diagnostic device 120 can also be associated with, integrated with, integrable with, replaced by, supplemented by, complemented by, or the like, a system processor or any component thereof. For example, an interaction can correspond to one or more chemical, biochemical, electrical, or electrochemical reactions corresponding to identification of one or more chemicals or biochemicals. One or more interactions can resultin one or more changes in electrical, optical, chemical, or other characteristics and / or properties inside the cartridge. Such characteristics and / or properties can be detected with one or more sensors to, for example, identify a component (e.g., a molecule or microorganism), to determine a state of the component, to detect the component’s presence, and / or to determine the component’s quantity.

[0032] The diagnostic device 120 can include a system processor that can execute one or more instructions associated with the system 100, according to any of the depictions 100A-C of the system 100. The system processor can include an electronic processor, an integrated circuit, or the like including one or more of digital logic, analog logic, digital sensors, analog sensors, communication buses, volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, and the like. The system processor can include, but is not limited to, at least one microcontroller unit (MCU), microprocessor unit (MPU), central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), physics processing unit (PPU), embedded controller (EC), or the like. The system processor can include a memory operable to store or storing one or more instructions for operating components of the system processor and operating components operably coupled to the system processor. The one or more instructions can include at least one of firmware, software, hardware, operating systems, embedded operating systems, and the like. The system processor or the diagnostic device 120 generally can include at least one communication bus controller to effect communication between the system processor and the other elements of the system 100.

[0033] The dropper 130A can store contents and expel contents to the diagnostic cartridge 110. For example, the dropper 130A can have a cylindrical shape including an inlet at a first end and an outlet at a second end. The dropper 130 A can include a reservoir corresponding to the cylindrical shape. For example, the dropper 130 A can have a reservoir with a volume corresponding to a medical syringe. The inlet of the dropper 130 can correspond to a cap that can be opened to allow filling of the reservoir with contents. The outlet of the dropper 130A can correspond to a nozzle. For example, the nozzle of the dropper 130 A can have a shape that can be mated with the inlet of the diagnostic cartridge 110. The dropper 130A can be in a state disconnected from or not mated with the diagnostic cartridge 110. For example, the dropper 130A can be in a state prior to or subsequent to filling of the diagnostic cartridge 110 with the content of the dropper 130 A.

[0034] FIG. IB depicts an example system, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. IB, an example system 100B can include at least a dropper 13 OB operated by a user 140 according to a direction 150. The dropper 13 OB can correspond at least partially in one or more of structure and operation to the dropper 130A. For example, the dropper 13 OB can be in a state corresponding to filling of the diagnostic cartridge 110 with the content of the dropper 130A. The user 140 can correspond to an individual operating one or more of the dropper 130B, the diagnostic cartridge 110, and the diagnostic device 120. For example, the user 140 can orient the dropper 130B to align the inlet of the diagnostic cartridge 110 to face the outlet of the dropper 130B. For example, the user 140 can move one or more of the diagnostic cartridge 110 and the dropper 130B in the direction 150 to mate the inlet of the diagnostic cartridge 110 with the outlet of the dropper BOB.

[0035] FIG. 1C depicts an example system, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 1C, an example system 100C can include at least a display device 160. The display device 160 can present one or more indications of one or more biochemical characteristics associated with a sample fluid, and can include an electronic display. An electronic display can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, or the like. The display device 160 can receive, for example, capacitive or resistive touch input. The display device 160 can be housed at least partially within the diagnostic device 120. The display device 160 can present one or more indications via one or more user interfaces that can include one or more graphical presentations and graphical control affordances. For example, a control affordance can include a portion of a user interface configured to detect user input. Example I / O components thus include, without limitation, a touchscreen display, a keypad or keyboard, biometric sensors such as a fingerprint scanners, buttons, switches, computer mice, microphones (e.g., for voice inputs such as test commands (e.g., “begin test”), passcodes (e.g., passcode known to authorized user), and / or voice recognition (e.g., analysis of voice signature of a user to record identity and / or compare voice signature for authentication or identity confirmation), speakers (e.g., for status updates such as “test in progress” or “test complete” or for speaking instructions for how to use an instrument or cartridge such as “insert cartridge further”), and / or other input / output devices.

[0036] FIG. 2A depicts an example cartridge environment, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 2A, an example cartridge environment 200 A can include at least a lower fill indication member 210, an upper fill indication member 212, a face 220, a side portion 230, and a view window 240 A. The cartridge environment 200 A can correspond to a first state of a portion 200 of the system 100 according to one or more of systems 100A-C as illustrated by way of example in Figs. 1 A-C.

[0037] The lower fill indication member 210 can correspond to a physical component of the diagnostic cartridge 110. The lower fill indication member 210 can be located at a position that indicates a minimum fill level of a liquid with respect to the view window 240 A. For example, the lower fill indication member 210 can indicate whether an amount of sample fluid from the dropper 130B meets or exceeds a first vertical level in the view window 240A with respect to a particular diagnostic test. For example, the lower fill indication member 210 can be formed or placed at a location over the view window 240A along a vertical direction of the view window 240A to indicate a minimum amount of fluid corresponding to a particular diagnostic test. For example, the lower fill indication member 210 can be formed as a component of the diagnostic cartridge 110 at a first vertical position to indicate a minimum amount of fluid corresponding to a COVID-19 diagnostic test. For example, the lower fill indication member 210 can be formed as a component of the diagnostic cartridge 110 at a second vertical position to indicate a minimum amount of fluid corresponding to a seasonal flu diagnostic test. For example, the cartridge 110 can include the predetermined position corresponding to a minimum amount of the sample fluid needed for performance of the diagnostic test.

[0038] The upper fill indication member 212 can correspond to a physical component of the diagnostic cartridge 110 distinct from the lower fill indication member 210. The upper fill indication member 212 can be located at a position that indicates a maximum fill level of a liquid with respect to the view window 240 A. For example, the upper fill indication member 212 can indicate whether an amount of sample fluid from the dropper 130B meets or exceeds a second vertical level in the view window 240A with respect to a particular diagnostic test. For example, the upper fill indication member 212 can be formed or placed at a location over the view window 240A along a vertical direction of the view window 240A to indicate a maximum amount of fluid corresponding to a particular diagnostic test. For example, the upper fill indication member 212 can be formed as a component of the diagnostic cartridge110 at a third vertical position to indicate a maximum amount of fluid corresponding to a COVID-19 diagnostic test. For example, the upper fill indication member 212 can be formed as a component of the diagnostic cartridge 110 at a fourth vertical position to indicate a maximum amount of fluid corresponding to a seasonal flu diagnostic test.

[0039] The face 220 can at least partially frame view window 240A. The face 220 can at least partially integrate with or connect with one or more of the lower fill indication member 210 and the upper fill indication member 212. For example, the face 220 can be formed to include a portion of a component of the diagnostic cartridge 110 defining an opening at least partially surrounding the view window 240A. For example, the face 220 can be formed with one or more of the lower fill indication member 210 and the upper fill indication member 212. For example, the face 220, the lower fill indication member 210, and the upper fill indication member 212 can be integrally formed of a single solid piece. For example, the single solid piece can include or be a stiff polymer or plastic. The face 220 can be oriented according to a face plane that intersects a top plane corresponding to the top surface of the diagnostic cartridge 110 and a front plane corresponding to the front surface of the diagnostic cartridge 110. For example, the face plane can be oriented at a 45 degree angle with respect to one or more of the top plane and the front plane. Thus, the face 220 can provide a technical improvement to increase visibility of a view window 240A during a filling process of the diagnostic cartridge 110.

[0040] The side portion 230 can correspond to a component of the diagnostic cartridge 110 covering at least a portion of the diagnostic cartridge 110. For example, the side portion 230 can be integrally formed with one or more of the lower fill indication member 210, the upper fill indication member 212, and the face 220. For example, the face 220, the lower fill indication member 210, and the upper fill indication member 212 can be integrally formed of a single solid piece with the side portion 230.

[0041] The view window 240A can correspond to at least a portion of a reservoir of the diagnostic cartridge 110 that aligns with an opening in the face 220. For example, the reservoir of the diagnostic cartridge 110 can be disposed along the face plane to render visible at least a portion of side wall through which a fill level of a liquid in the reservoir. For example, at least the portion of the reservoir aligned with the opening of the face 220 can include or be a transparent or translucent material. The view window 240 A can correspond to a state of a view window 240 having no fluid visible therethrough. For example, the viewwindow 240A can frame a reservoir of the diagnostic cartridge 110 absent any fluid or containing an amount of fluid below a threshold of visibility in the view window 240A.

[0042] FIG. 2B depicts an example cartridge environment, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 2B, an example cartridge environment 200B can include at least a view window 240B, and a fluid 250 visible from view window 240B.

[0043] The view window 240B can correspond at least partially in one or more of structure and operation to the view window 240B. The view window 240B can correspond to a state of a view window 240 having fluid 250 visible therethrough. For example, the view window 240B can frame a reservoir of the diagnostic cartridge 110 containing an amount of liquid visible in the view window 240A. For example, the fluid 250 visible from view window 240B can be at a level above the lower fill indication member 210 and below the upper fill indication member 212. Thus, the lower fill indication member 210 and the upper fill indication member 212 can provide a technical improvement to increase visibility of fluid 250 deposited to the diagnostic cartridge 110 during depositing of the fluid 250 by the user 140.

[0044] FIG. 3A depicts an example cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 3A, an example cartridge environment 300 A in a cross-sectional view can include at least an upper portion 310, a lower portion 312, a reservoir 320, a fluid 330A in the dropper 130B, a fluid 332A in the reservoir 320, and an air gap 334A between the dropper and the reservoir 320. The cartridge environment 300 A can correspond to a first filling state including the diagnostic cartridge 110 and the dropper 130B. For example, the first filling state can correspond to a start of a transfer of fluid from the dropper 130B to the diagnostic cartridge 110.

[0045] The upper portion 310 can correspond to a portion of the reservoir 320 structured to couple with or mate with the outlet of the dropper 130B. For example, the upper portion 310 can define an opening extending from a top surface of the diagnostic cartridge to the reservoir 320. For example, the upper portion 310 can define an opening having a cross section corresponding to a cross section of the outlet of the dropper 130B. For example, the opening of the upper portion 310 can have a circular cross section corresponding to a circular cross section of the dropper 130B.

[0046] The lower portion 312 can correspond to a portion of the reservoir 320 structured to transport and store fluid. For example, the lower portion 312 can extend in a direction corresponding to the face plane. For example, the lower portion 312 can be integrally formed with the upper portion at an angle corresponding to an angle between the face plane and either the top plane or the front plane, or both. The position of the lower portion 312 at the angle can result in the lower portion having a sloped surface 314. The sloped surface 314 of the lower portion 312 can be oriented to allow transport of the fluid 332A without or mitigating dispersion of the fluid 332A in the reservoir 320. For example, the sloped surface 314 can be oriented to prevent “breakage” of the fluid and to transport fluid in one body or a minimum number of bodies according to a surface tension of the fluid. For example, the sloped surface 314 can be formed or oriented to achieve a technical improvement to prevent or minimize formation of separate droplets of the fluid 332A. For example, the sloped surface 314 can be formed or oriented to achieve a technical improvement to prevent or minimize formation of bubbles in the fluid 332A. For example, the sloped surface 314 can have an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the top plane of the diagnostic cartridge 110, to mitigate dispersion of a fluid 332A having a surface tension property corresponding, for example, to at least one of a liquid sample or a liquid sample mixed or otherwise combined with a transport medium. For example, a transport medium can correspond to or include a PC A buffer solution.

[0047] The reservoir 320 can include both the upper portion 310 and the lower portion 312. For example, the reservoir 320 can have a cylindrical shape enclosing a cavity that abuts the face 220 and the view window 240A. For example, the reservoir 320 can be attached with a body of the diagnostic cartridge 110 and can include or be a transparent or translucent material. The reservoir 320 can have one or more dimensions to achieve a technical improvement to eliminate or mitigate dispersion of the fluid 332A in the reservoir 320. For example, the reservoir 320 can be formed with one or more of a particular inner depth 322 and a particular outer depth 324 corresponding to a surface tension property corresponding to at least one of a liquid sample or a liquid sample mixed or otherwise combined with a transport medium. For example, the inner depth 322 can be between about 10 millimeters (mm) and about 20 mm, and can be about 15 mm. For example, the outer depth 324 can be about 4 mm greater than the inner depth 322. For example, the inner depth can correspond to a horizontal direction from a front of the reservoir 320 at the view window 240A to a rear of the reservoir 320 at a surface opposite to the front of the reservoir in the horizontal direction. For example, the horizontal direction can be parallel to the top plane of the diagnostic cartridge 110. Forexample, the reservoir can have a depth ranging from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, and a width ranging from about 5 mm to about 10 mm. For example, the reservoir can correspond to a chamber. For example, the chamber can include a first surface coupled to the opening, and a second surface that is sloped with respect to the first surface such that the sample fluid flows down the second surface when the cartridge is upright. For example, the system can include a reservoir that has a depth between about 5 mm and about 10 mm and a width between about 5 mm and about 10 mm.

[0048] The fluid 330A in the dropper 130B can be transported between the dropper 130B mated with the reservoir 320. For example, the fluid 330A can be expelled from the outlet of the dropper 130B into the upper portion 310 of the reservoir 320 and onto the sloping portion 314 of the lower portion 312 of the reservoir 320. The outlet of the dropper 130B can be positioned at a distance from the sloped surface 314 corresponding to a distance to mitigate or eliminate dispersion of the fluid 332A in the reservoir 320. The fluid in reservoir 332A can flow into the reservoir and fill the reservoir 320 according to a fill like, with minimal or no dispersion that may render the fill level of the fluid 332A difficult or impossible to detect visually. The air gap 334A between the dropper 130B and the reservoir 320 can provide an outlet for air to escape the reservoir 320 as it is replaced by the fluid 332A. Thus, the air gap 334A can provide the technical improvement of mitigating or preventing dispersion of the fluid 332A by providing a pathway for air to flow that prevents or mitigates pressurization of or foaming of the fluid 332A.

[0049] FIG. 3B depicts an example cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 3B, an example cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view 300B can include at least a fluid 330B in the dropper 130A, a fluid 332B in the reservoir 320, and an air gap 334B between the dropper 130A and the reservoir 320. The cartridge environment 300B can correspond to a second filling state including the diagnostic cartridge 110 and the dropper 130A. For example, the first filling state can correspond to a continuation of a transfer of fluid from the dropper 130A to the diagnostic cartridge 110, subsequent to the first filling state.

[0050] For example, the dropper 130A can be removed from the inlet of the upper portion 310 of the reservoir 320 at any point during a filling process of the reservoir. However, the dropper 130A does not need to be removed from the inlet of the upper portion 310 to complete a filling process. The fluid 330B can correspond to an amount of fluid less than an amount ofthe fluid 330A. The fluid 332B can correspond to an amount of fluid greater than an amount of the fluid 332A. For example, the fluid 332B can continue to flow into the reservoir 320 with an absence of formation of bubbles or droplets. The air gap 334B can be increased to the size of the inlet of the upper portion 312 of the reservoir 320 upon removal of the dropper 130A from the inlet of the upper portion 312.

[0051] FIG. 3C depicts an example cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 3C, an example cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view 300C can include at least a fluid 330C in the dropper 130B, and a fluid 332C in the reservoir 320. The cartridge environment 300C can correspond to a third filling state including the diagnostic cartridge 110 and the dropper 130B. For example, the third filling state can correspond to a continuation of a transfer of fluid from the dropper 130B to the diagnostic cartridge 110, subsequent to the second filling state. The fluid 330C can correspond to an amount of fluid less than an amount of the fluid 330B. The fluid 332C can correspond to an amount of fluid greater than an amount of the fluid 332B. For example, the fluid 332C can continue to flow into the reservoir 320 with an absence of formation of bubbles or droplets.

[0052] FIG. 3D depicts an example cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 3D, an example cartridge environment in a cross-sectional view 300D can include at least a fluid 330D in the dropper 130B, and a fluid 332D in the reservoir 320. The cartridge environment 300D can correspond to a fourth filling state including the diagnostic cartridge 110 and the dropper 130B. For example, the fourth filling state can correspond to a continuation of a transfer of fluid from the dropper 130B to the diagnostic cartridge 110, subsequent to the third filling state. The fluid 330D can correspond to an amount of fluid less than an amount of the fluid 330C, or an absence of fluid in the dropper 130B. The fluid 332D can correspond to an amount of fluid greater than an amount of the fluid 332C. For example, the fluid 332D can complete a flow into the reservoir 320 with an absence of formation of bubbles or droplets. For example, a level of the fluid 332 can be visible through the view window 240B according to a level corresponding to the level 250.

[0053] FIG. 4A depicts an example cartridge environment in plan view, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 4A, an example cartridge environment in plan view 400 A can include at least a cartridge inlet 410A, and an inlet cover420 A. The cartridge inlet 410A can correspond at least partially in one or more of structure and operation to the inlet of the upper portion 312 of the reservoir 320. The cartridge inlet 410A can correspond to an open state that allows the outlet of the dropper 130A to mate with the cartridge inlet 410A. The inlet cover 420 A can slide from an open position to a closed position. For example, the inlet cover 420 A can be at a position corresponding to the open state that allows the outlet of the dropper 130A to mate with the cartridge inlet 410A. For example, the cartridge can include a lid moveable to cover and seal the opening, the lid configured to permit the diagnostic test to proceed when covering the opening.

[0054] FIG. 4B depicts an example cartridge environment in plan view, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 4B, an example cartridge environment in plan view 400B can include at least a cartridge inlet 410B, and an inlet cover 420B. The cartridge inlet 410B can correspond at least partially in one or more of structure and operation to the cartridge inlet 410A. The cartridge inlet 410B can correspond to a closed state that prevents or blocks the outlet of the dropper 130A from mating with the cartridge inlet 410A, and prevents or blocks egress of fluid in the reservoir 320. The inlet cover 420B can correspond to a closed position, subsequent to a filling operation of the reservoir 320. For example, the inlet cover 420B can be at a position corresponding to the closed state that prevents or blocks the outlet of the dropper 130A from mating with the cartridge inlet 410B.

[0055] This technical solution can provide at least a technical improvement to mitigate or eliminate contamination into an environment external to the cartridge 110, by mitigating or eliminating dispersion of a sample fluid into an environment exterior to the cartridge 110 via the cartridge inlet 410. For example, the cartridge 110 can transition between cartridge environments 400A-B by movement of a cartridge at a predetermined velocity or within a range of predetermined velocities. For example, the inlet cover 420A can move via a spring having a tension sufficiently low as to prevent a “snap” of the inlet cover 420 A into the position 420B. The “snap” can correspond to a speed of traversal of the inlet cover 420 sufficient to cause ejection of at least a portion sample flid from the reservoir 320 via the cartridge inlet 410. For example, a speed of traversal can be greater than or equal to 0.5 seconds, but is not limited thereto. For example, the speed of traversal can be based on a spring coupling the inlet cover 420A to the upper portion 312 of the reservoir 320.

[0056] For example, the technical solution can include the technical improvement to mitigate contamination into an environment external to the cartridge 110, by a combination ofstructures of the cartridge 110, to achieve the technical improvement of substantial mitigation, up to complete elimination, of dispersion of a sample fluid into an environment exterior to the cartridge 110 via the cartridge inlet 410. For example, the cartridge inlet 410, corresponding to the upper portion 310 of the reservoir 320, can be structured to minimize dispersion by a structure to allow a tip of the dropper 130 to be fully inserted into the upper portion 312, with an allowance restricted to the air gap 334A. Further, the inlet cover 420 can be structured to mitigate or eliminate contact with sample fluid that has potentially been dispersed onto the top surface of the cartridge 110. For example, the inlet cover 420 can be structured to have a shape that covers the cartridge inlet 410 including the cartridge inlet 410 and a portion of the top surface of the cartridge 410 within a predetermined distance of the cartridge inlet 410. For example, the predetermined distance can correspond to a square or rectangular region of the top surface located surrounding the cartridge inlet 410, as illustrated by way of example in Fig. 4A.

[0057] FIG. 5 depicts an example cartridge panel, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 5, an example cartridge panel 500 can include at least a front portion 520, and a top portion 530. The panel 500 can correspond to a single piece integrally formed to include the lower fill indication member 210, the upper fill indication member 212, the face 220, the side portion 230, to define the view window 240. The front portion 520 can include the lower fill indication member 210, the upper fill indication member 212, the face 220, and the view window 240. The top portion 530 can include the cartridge inlet 410, and the inlet cover 420. For example, the cartridge inlet 410 can be integrally formed with the top portion 530, and the inlet cover 420 can be attachable to the top portion 530 to moveably slide at least from the open position to the closed position along the top portion 530. The panel 500 can achieve a technical improvement to provide a customizable cartridge indication via members 210 and 212 that can be formed to correspond to a particular diagnostic test, and can be attached to a diagnostic cartridge 110 to customize the diagnostic cartridge 110 to the diagnostic test and to customize the members 210 and 212 for the diagnostic test. This technical solution is not limited to the cartridge panel 500. For example, at least one of the cartridge inlet 410 or the inlet cover 420 can be integrally formed with, integrated with, attached with, or coupled with the reservoir 320.

[0058] FIG. 6 depicts an example user interface for cartridge environment, in accordance with present implementations. As illustrated by way of example in FIG. 6, an example userinterface 600 for a cartridge environment can include at least an environment presentation 610, a diagnostic presentation 620, and a reservoir presentation 630. The user interface 600 can be presented on or by the display 160. For example, the system can include a device configured to securely couple with the cartridge and provide a user interface. For example, the system can include a user interface configured to present an indication of a status of the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

[0059] The environment presentation 610 can present a visual representation of one or more of the diagnostic cartridge 110 and the diagnostic device 120. For example, the environment presentation 610 can present, at a first portion of the user interface, an indication of an arrangement of the diagnostic cartridge 110 with respect to the diagnostic device 120. For example, the arrangement can correspond to an attachment or mating of the diagnostic cartridge 110 with the diagnostic device 120 by at least partially inserting the diagnostic cartridge in the diagnostic device 120.

[0060] The diagnostic presentation 620 can present a visual indication of a diagnostic test corresponding to the diagnostic cartridge 110 or a diagnostic test corresponding to the diagnostic cartridge 110 or the panel 500. For example, the diagnostic presentation 620 can present, at a second portion of the user interface, an indication of identifiers of the diagnostic test. For example, the identifiers can include an identification of one or more aspects of the test, the patient, the cartridge, or any combination thereof.

[0061] The reservoir presentation 630 can present a visual indication of a fill level corresponding to a diagnostic test or the panel 500 with respect to one or more of the member 210 and 212. For example, the reservoir presentation 630 can include one or more members 210 and 212 present according to the member 210 and 212 on the panel 500. For example, the reservoir presentation 630 can present a visual indication including both the members 210 and 212, according to a panel 500 that includes both the members 210 and 212. For example, the reservoir presentation 630 can present a visual indication including only the member 210, according to a panel 500 that includes only the member 210. For example, the reservoir presentation 630 can present a visual indication including only the member 212, according to a panel 500 that includes only the member 212. For example, the reservoir presentation 630 can prompt the user to perform a filling operation according to a diagnostic test to level indicated by one or more of the members formed according to the diagnostic test. For example, the device can include where the one or more prompts correspond to injection ofthe sample fluid into the cartridge. For example, the device can include where the one or more prompts correspond to performance of the diagnostic test.

[0062] Example embodiments include, without limitation:

[0063] Embodiment AA: A cartridge configured for a diagnostic test, the cartridge comprising: a chamber having an upper portion and a lower portion, the chamber defining an opening structured to receive a portion of a dispenser for injection of a sample fluid into the upper portion, and the lower portion defining a reservoir to receive the sample fluid from the upper portion; a view window through which the sample fluid received in the reservoir is viewable to a user of the cartridge; and a member coupled to the view window at a predetermined position indicative of an amount of the sample fluid suitable for the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

[0064] Embodiment AB: The cartridge of Embodiment AA, the predetermined position corresponding to a minimum amount of the sample fluid needed for performance of the diagnostic test.

[0065] Embodiment AC: The cartridge of either Embodiment AA or Embodiment AB, wherein the reservoir has a depth ranging from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, and a width ranging from about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0066] Embodiment AD: The cartridge of any of Embodiments AA - AC, further comprising: a lid moveable to cover and seal the opening, the lid configured to permit the diagnostic test to proceed when covering the opening.

[0067] Embodiment AE: The cartridge of any of Embodiments AA - AD, wherein the cartridge is configured to couple to a device configured to provide a user interface presenting at least one of an indication of an amount of the sample fluid in the cartridge or a status of the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

[0068] Embodiment AF: The cartridge of any of Embodiments AA - AE, wherein the cartridge has a physical interface configured to couple the cartridge to a holding device configured to hold the cartridge upright during injection of the sample fluid.

[0069] Embodiment AG: The cartridge of any of Embodiments AA - AF, wherein the chamber includes a first surface coupled to the opening, and a second surface that is slopedwith respect to the first surface such that the sample fluid flows down the second surface when the cartridge is upright.

[0070] Embodiment BA: A system comprising any of the cartridges Embodiments AA - AG.

[0071] Embodiment CA: A device comprising any of the cartridges Embodiments AA - AG.

[0072] Embodiment DA: A cartridge comprising: a first portion at least partially defining an opening configured to receive a portion of a dispenser that injects a sample fluid into the cartridge; a second portion having a first surface and a second surface angled with respect to the first surface to define a slope for flow of sample fluid down from the first opening when the cartridge is upright; and a reservoir structured to hold the sample fluid from the second portion.

[0073] Embodiment EA: A device comprising the cartridge of Embodiment DA.

[0074] Embodiment FA: A system comprising the cartridge of Embodiment DA.

[0075] Embodiment FB: The system of Embodiment FA, further comprising: a device configured to securely couple with the cartridge and provide a user interface.

[0076] Embodiment FC: The system of Embodiment FB, wherein the user interface is configured to present an indication of a status of the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

[0077] Embodiment FD: The system of Embodiment FB, wherein the reservoir has a depth between about 5 mm and about 10 mm and a width between about 5 mm and about 10 mm.

[0078] Embodiment GA: A device comprising a physical interface to receive any of the cartridges of Embodiments AA - AG or Embodiment DA; one or more input / output (I / O) components; and a controller configured to provide, via the one or more VO components, a user interface configured to present one or more prompts corresponding to the diagnostic test and receive one or more inputs.

[0079] Embodiment GB: The device of Embodiment GA, further comprising a sensor configured to detect a state of the cartridge or its contents.

[0080] Embodiment GC: The device of either Embodiment GA or GB, wherein the one or more prompts correspond at least to injection of the sample fluid into the cartridge.

[0081] Embodiment GD: The device of either Embodiment GA or GB, wherein the one or more prompts correspond at least to performance of the diagnostic test.

[0082] Embodiment GE: The device of either Embodiment GA or GB, wherein the one or more prompts correspond at least to one of injection of the sample fluid into the cartridge or to performance of the diagnostic test.

[0083] Embodiment GF : The device of either Embodiment GA or GB, wherein the one or more prompts correspond at least to both of injection of the sample fluid into the cartridge and to performance of the diagnostic test.

[0084] Embodiment HA: A cartridge, a system, or a device of any of the above Embodiments AA - GF, further comprising a sensor configured to detect at least one of an electrical, an optical, or a chemical characteristic in the cartridge, and / or a change in the at least one of the electrical, the optical, or the chemical characteristic.

[0085] Having now described some illustrative implementations, the foregoing is illustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of example. In particular, although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. Acts, elements, and features discussed in connection with one implementation are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other implementations.

[0086] The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," "involving," "characterized by," "characterized in that," and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, and additional items, as well as alternate implementations consisting of the items listed thereafter exclusively. In one implementation, the systems and methods described herein consist of one, each combination of more than one, or all of the described elements, acts, or components.

[0087] References to "or" may be construed as inclusive so that any terms described using "or" may indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. Referencesto at least one of a conjunctive list of terms may be construed as an inclusive OR to indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. For example, a reference to "at least one of 'A' and 'B'" can include only 'A', only 'B', as well as both "A1and 'B'. Such references used in conjunction with "comprising" or other open terminology can include additional items. References to "is" or "are" may be construed as nonlimiting to the implementation or action referenced in connection with that term. The terms "is" or "are" or any tense or derivative thereof, are interchangeable and synonymous with "can be" as used herein, unless stated otherwise herein.

[0088] Directional indicators depicted herein are example directions to facilitate understanding of the examples discussed herein, and are not limited to the directional indicators depicted herein. Any directional indicator depicted herein can be modified to the reverse direction, or can be modified to include both the depicted direction and a direction reverse to the depicted direction, unless stated otherwise herein. While operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, such operations are not required to be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and all illustrated operations are not required to be performed. Actions described herein can be performed in a different order. Where technical features in the drawings, detailed description or any claim are followed by reference signs, the reference signs have been included to increase the intelligibility of the drawings, detailed description, and claims. Accordingly, neither the reference signs nor their absence have any limiting effect on the scope of any clam elements.

[0089] Scope of the systems and methods described herein is thus indicated by the appended claims, rather than the foregoing description. The scope of the claims includes equivalents to the meaning and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A cartridge configured for a diagnostic test, the cartridge comprising: a chamber having an upper portion and a lower portion, the chamber defining an opening structured to receive a portion of a dispenser for injection of a sample fluid into the upper portion, and the lower portion defining a reservoir to receive the sample fluid from the upper portion; a view window through which the sample fluid received in the reservoir is viewable to a user of the cartridge; and a member coupled to the view window at a predetermined position indicative of an amount of the sample fluid suitable for the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

2. The cartridge of claim 1, the predetermined position corresponding to a minimum amount of the sample fluid needed for performance of the diagnostic test.

3. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the reservoir has a depth ranging from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, and a width ranging from about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

4. The cartridge of claim 1, further comprising: a lid moveable to cover and seal the opening, the lid configured to permit the diagnostic test to proceed when covering the opening.

5. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the cartridge is configured to couple to a device configured to provide a user interface presenting at least one of an indication of an amount of the sample fluid in the cartridge or a status of the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

6. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the cartridge has a physical interface configured to couple the cartridge to a holding device configured to hold the cartridge upright during injection of the sample fluid.

7. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the chamber includes a first surface coupled to the opening, and a second surface that is sloped with respect to the first surface such that the sample fluid flows down the second surface when the cartridge is upright.

8. A system comprising a cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a first portion at least partially defining an opening configured to receive a portion of a dispenser that injects a sample fluid into the cartridge; a second portion having a first surface and a second surface angled with respect to the first surface to define a slope for flow of sample fluid down from the first opening when the cartridge is upright; and a reservoir structured to hold the sample fluid from the second portion.

9. The system of claim 8, further comprising: a device configured to securely couple with the cartridge and provide a user interface.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the user interface is configured to present an indication of a status of the diagnostic test performed by the cartridge.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the reservoir has a depth between about 5 mm and about 10 mm and a width between about 5 mm and about 10 mm.

12. A device comprising: a physical interface to receive the cartridge of claim 1; one or more input / output (I / O) components; and a controller configured to provide, via the one or more I / O components, a user interface configured to present one or more prompts corresponding to the diagnostic test and receive one or more inputs.

13. The device of claim 12, further comprising a sensor configured to detect a state of the cartridge or its contents.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein the one or more prompts correspond to injection of the sample fluid into the cartridge.

15. The device of claim 12, wherein the one or more prompts correspond to performance of the diagnostic test.

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