Optical devices for analyzing samples in sample tubes

Abstract

An optical device for analyzing a sample in sample tube includes a sample tube holder having a sample tube opening for receiving a sample tube, a first set of light sources positioned to emit light along an excitation path to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, a first set of sensors positioned with respect to the sample tube opening to determine absorbance or fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and a control circuit adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors. Additional light sources and / or sensors may also be employed. A system for analyzing a plurality of samples contained in a plurality of sample tubes includes a central hub and a plurality of sample tube holders each including means for communicating with the central hub.

Description

OPTICAL DEVICES FOR ANALYZING SAMPLES IN SAMPLE TUBESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 567,123 filed March 19, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 773,688 filed March 18, 2025. The entire disclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to optical devices for analyzing samples in sample tubes including test tubes and the like.BACKGROUND

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Various types of optical devices are known in the art for analyzing samples contained in sample tubes such as test tubes. For example, spectrometers, fluorometers, and luminometers are optical instruments that may be used to determine absorbance / transmission (referred to collectively as absorbance), fluorescence, and luminescence, respectively, of biological or other samples contained in sample tubes.SUMMARY

[0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an optical device for analyzing a sample in sample tube includes a sample tube holder having a sample tube opening for receiving a sample tube, a first set of light sources positioned to emit light along an excitation path to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, a first set of sensors positioned with respect to the sample tube opening to determine absorbance or fluorescence of a sample in a sample tubepositioned in the sample tube opening, and a control circuit adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors.

[0007] Additionally, the first set of sensors may be positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

[0008] Additionally, or alternatively, the first set of sensors may be oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

[0009] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a second set of sensors, wherein the first set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the second set of sensors is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the first set of sensors, and the second set of sensors.

[0010] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a third set of sensors, wherein the third set of sensors is positioned and adapted to measure luminescence emitted by a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the first set of sensors, the second set of sensors, and the third set of sensors.

[0011] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a second set of light sources positioned to emit light along an excitation path to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the first set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the first set of sensors is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path of the second set of light sources and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the second set of light sources, and the first set of sensors.

[0012] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a second set of sensors and a second set of light sources positioned to emit light along an excitation path to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the first set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources, wherein the second set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the second set of light sources, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the second set of light sources, the first set of sensors, and the second set of sensors.

[0013] Additionally, or alternatively, one or more of the sensors may be adapted to measure luminescence emitted by a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

[0014] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include an additional set of one or more sensors positioned adjacent the first set of light sources or the second set of light sources and adapted to detect light reflected or scattered by a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

[0015] Additionally, or alternatively, the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors may be physically coupled to the sample tube holder.

[0016] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a housing defining an opening for removably receiving the sample tube holder.

[0017] Additionally, or alternatively, the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors may be physically coupled to the housing.

[0018] Additionally, or alternatively, the sample tube holder may include a plurality of optically transparent windows for physically isolating a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening from the housing when the sample tube holder is removably received by the housing.

[0019] Additionally, or alternatively, the sample tube holder may include a reservoir for capturing liquid spills.

[0020] Additionally, or alternatively, the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors may be positioned in the same horizontal plane.

[0021] Additionally, or alternatively, a first light path may optically couple the first set of light sources to the sample tube opening and a second light path may optically couple the sample tube opening to the first set of sensors.

[0022] Additionally, or alternatively, the first light path or the second light path may include an optically clear material.

[0023] Additionally, or alternatively, the first light path or the second light path may be curved.

[0024] Additionally, or alternatively, at least one set of light sources may include a UV light source for irradiating the first light path or the second light path.

[0025] Additionally, or alternatively, the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors may each include one or more conformal coatings.

[0026] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a battery for powering the optical device.

[0027] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a visual display for displaying parameters determined by the first set of sensors.

[0028] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include a foldable case.

[0029] Additionally, or alternatively, the optical device may include an electrical connector for electrically coupling the optical device to an external device.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a system for analyzing a plurality of samples contained in a plurality of sample tubes includes a central hub and a plurality of sample tube holders. Each sample tube holder includes at least one sample tube opening for receiving a sample tube, one or more light sources for illuminating a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, one or more sensors configured to detect light, fluorescence, reflectance and / or luminescence from a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and means for communicating with the central hub.

[0031] Additionally, or alternatively, the central hub may include a board having a plurality of ports, and the plurality of sample tube holders may each be adapted to communicate with the central hub via its means for communicating when the sample tube holder is positioned on one of the plurality of ports.

[0032] Additionally, or alternatively, each means for communicating may include an electrical connector for communicating with the central hub.

[0033] Additionally, or alternatively, the central hub may be adapted for communication with an external computer.

[0034] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.DRAWINGS

[0035] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figs. 1 A-1 D illustrate an optical device for analyzing a sample in sample tube according to one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figs. 2A-2D illustrate an optical device having a second set of one or more sensors according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figs. 3A-3D illustrate an optical device having a second set of one or more light sources according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figs. 4A-4D illustrate an optical device having two set of light sources and two sets of sensors according to another example embodiment.

[0040] Figs. 5A-5D illustrate an optical device having three sets of sensors according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figs. 6A-6D illustrate an optical device having curved light paths according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figs. 7A-7C illustrate an optical device having a removable sample tube holder according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figs. 8A and 8B illustrate an optical device having a case and visual display according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Fig. 9 illustrates an optical device having an electrical connector on its bottom surface according to another example embodiment.

[0045] Fig. 10 illustrates a system for analyzing samples in multiple sample tubes using a central hub according to yet another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Fig. 11 illustrates an optical device having modular light source and sensor holders according to another example embodiment.

[0047] Fig. 12 is a block diagram of a control circuit for an optical device according to another example embodiment.

[0048] Figs. 13A-13D illustrate an optical device having a reflectance sensor according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.DESCRIPTION

[0050] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

[0052] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0053] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unlessclearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0054] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0055] An optical device for analyzing a sample in sample tube is illustrated in Fig. 1A and indicated generally by reference number 100. As shown in Fig. 1A, the optical device 100 includes a sample tube holder 102 having a sample tube opening 104 for receiving a sample tube 200. The optical device 100 further includes a first set of light sources 106 and a first set of sensors 108, as well as a control circuit (not shown in Fig. 1) adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources 106 and the first set of sensors 108.

[0056] The first set of light sources 106 is positioned to emit light along an excitation path shown by arrows 112 in Fig. 1 B to illuminate a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening 104. The first set of sensors 108 can be positioned with respect to the sample tube opening 104 to determine absorbance or fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening. In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 1A, the first set of sensors 108 is positioned in the excitation path 112 of the first set of light sources 106 and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening 104 as shown in Fig. 1C. In that event, the first set of light sources 106 may include, e.g., one or more broadband LED light sources and the first set of sensors 108 may include one more spectral sensors.

[0057] Alternatively, the first set of sensors 108 may be oriented at a ninetydegree angle relative to the excitation path 112 of the first set of light sources 106 and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening. In that event, the first set of light sources 106 may include, e.g., one or more narrowband LED light sources and the first set of sensors 108 may include one more spectral sensors.

[0058] The sample tube holder 102 can be dimensioned as necessary to accommodate sample tubes of various sizes or configurations. The sample tube 200 may be a test tube, vial or other vessel for holding a liquid, particulate or solid sample to be analyzed. Preferably, the sample tube 200 is formed of an optically clear material.

[0059] The first set of sensors 108 may be further adapted to measure luminescence emitted by a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening 104. In that case, the first set of sensors 108 may include, e.g., one or more spectral and / or high-dynamic range sensors. The emitted luminescence can be measured without requiring external illumination of the sample, e.g., by the first set of light sources. In this manner, an elegantly simple optical device 100 is provided for determining the luminescence of a sample in a sample tube in addition to its absorbance or fluorescence.

[0060] Fig. 1 D illustrates the example sample tube holder 102 by itself (i.e., without light sources or sensors) and light paths extending therein. In particular, Fig. 1 D illustrates a light path 114 extending from the location of the first set of light sources 106 to the sample tube opening 104, and a light path 116 extending from the sample tube opening 104 to the location of the first set of sensors 108. As further explained below, the light paths 114, 116 may be defined, for example, by voids or optically clear material(s) extending within the sample tube holder 102.

[0061] Fig. 2A illustrates another example embodiment of the optical device 100. In this embodiment, the optical device 100 further includes a second set of sensors 110, and the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources 106, the first set of sensors 108, and the second set of sensors 110.

[0062] In this example embodiment, the first set of sensors 108 is positioned in the excitation path 112 of the first set of light sources 106 and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening 104. The second set of sensors 110 are oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path 112 ofthe first set of light sources 106 and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening. In this manner, an elegantly simple optical device 100 is provided for determining the absorbance and fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube.

[0063] The first set of sensors 108 or the second set of sensors 110 may be further adapted to measure luminescence emitted by a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening 104 as shown in Fig. 2C. In this manner, the optical device 100 can be used as desired to determine the absorbance, fluorescence and luminescence of a sample in a sample tube.

[0064] As shown in Fig. 2D, the sample tube holder 102 includes, in addition to light paths 114, 116, a light path 118 extending from the sample tube opening 104 to the location of the second set of sensors 110.

[0065] Fig. 3A illustrates another example embodiment of the optical device 100. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1A but further includes a second set of light sources 120 positioned to emit light along an excitation path 122 to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening. The control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources 106, the second set of light sources 120, and the first set of sensors 108.

[0066] The first set of sensors 108 is positioned in the excitation path 112 of the first set of light sources 106 and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening. Additionally, in the embodiment of Fig. 3A, the first set of sensors 108 is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path 122 of the second set of light sources 120 and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 3D, the sample tube holder 102 includes, in addition to light paths 114, 116, a light path 124 extending from the location of the second set of light sources to the sample tube opening 104.

[0068] In this manner, the optical device 100 can be adapted determine the absorbance, fluorescence and luminescence of a sample in a sample tube using two sets of light sources 106, 120 and one set of sensors 108.

[0069] Fig. 4A illustrates another example embodiment of the optical device 100. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3A but further includes a second set of sensors 110. The control circuit is adapted to control operation of the firstset of light sources 106, the second set of light sources 120, the first set of sensors 108, and the second set of sensors 110.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 4B, the first set of sensors 108 is positioned in the excitation path 112 of the first set of light sources 106, and the second set of sensors 110 is positioned in the excitation path 122 of the second set of light sources 120. Additionally, in this example embodiment, the first set of sensors 108 is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path 122 of the second set of light sources 120, and the second set of sensors 110 is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path 112 of the first set of light sources 106. The first set of light sources 106 may include a light source of a different type, color, etc. than the second set of light sources 120. Similarly, the first set of sensors 108 may include a sensor of a different type than the second set of sensors 110. In this manner, the light sources and sensors may be adapted and / or optimized as desired to determine the absorbance, fluorescence and luminescence of a sample in a sample tube. Additionally, the second set of light sources 110 may serve as a backup light source in the event of failure of the first set of light sources 106.

[0071] In this example embodiment, the sample tube holder 102 includes light paths 114, 116, 118 and 124, as shown in Fig. 4D.

[0072] Fig. 5A illustrates another example embodiment of the optical device 100. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2A but further includes a third set of sensors 128 oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path 112 of the first set of light sources 106. With this arrangement, the first set of sensors 108 can be adapted and / or optimized for determining absorbance, the second set of sensors 110 can be adapted and / or optimized for determining fluorescence, and the third set of sensors 128 can be adapted and / or optimized for determining luminescence emitted by a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening 104. The control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources 106, the first set of sensors 108, the second set of sensors 110, and the third set of sensors 128. In this example embodiment, the sample tube holder 102 includes light paths 114, 116, 118 and 124, as shown in Fig. 5D.

[0073] In other embodiments, the optical device 100 may include one or more additional sets of light sources and / or sensors. For example, the optical device may include another set of sensors positioned adjacent the first set of light sources 106 or the second set of light sources 120 and adapted and / or optimized to detect lightreflected or scattered by a sample in the sample tube 200 when the sample tube 200 is positioned in the sample tube opening 140. In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 13, a reflectance sensor 190 is positioned with or adjacent to the first set of sensors 106 for measuring light that is emitted by the first set of sensors and reflected by a sample in a sample tube 200.

[0074] Each set of light sources may include any desired number of light sources and as few as one light source. It should therefore be understood that, e.g., the first set of light sources 106 may include only one LED, or the second set of light sources 120 may include multiple LEDs and / or other light sources, as desired for any given implementation of the teachings herein. Preferably, the one or more light sources of each set of light sources are arranged on the same circuit board or other substrate (e.g., a semiconductor chip). These may include, for example, multi-wavelength, narrowband, and broadband light sources spanning the ultraviolet (UV), visible, and near-infrared (NIR) ranges. In some embodiments, the light sources include high- brightness multi-channel SMD LEDs that can be controlled to adjust brightness, wavelength(s) and / or bandwidth. Additionally, the light source(s) may include one or more UV light sources (e.g., emitting at 365 nm or 395-405 nm) that can be used for, among other things, irradiating one or more of the light paths 114, 116, 118, 124 for disinfection purposes.

[0075] Similarly, each set of sensors may include any desired number of sensors and as few as one sensor. It should therefore be understood that, e.g., the first set of sensors 108 may include only one spectral sensor, or the second set of sensors 110 may include multiple spectral and / or light sensors, as desired for any given implementation of the teachings herein. Preferably, the one or more sensors of each set of sensors are arranged on the same circuit board or other substrate (e.g., a semiconductor chip). These may include, for example, miniaturized filter-on-silicon spectral sensors (such as models AS7341 , AS7343, and AS7421 ), hyperspectral NIR sensors, high-dynamic range sensors (such as model TSL2591 ), luminosity sensors, etc.

[0076] The various light source(s) and sensor(s) may employ filters as necessary to separate or remove specific wavelengths. For example, many spectral sensors have built-in filters (e.g., filter coating(s)) deposited on their photodiodes. The spectral sensors may also employ light diffusers for scattering incoming light and ensuring the light reaches the spectral sensors evenly and diffused. By minimizing hotspots, off-angle incidence, and uneven lighting, diffusers can reduce noise and enhance precision in low-light applications. For example, the spectral sensor apertures may be covered with a surface diffuser such as a thin PET-based diffuser that may include an adhesive such as a single- or double-sided adhesive layer, etc.

[0077] In the example embodiments discussed above, the various light source(s) and sensor(s) and positioned and aligned in the same horizontal plane, and the light paths 114, 116, 118 and 124 extend in the same horizontal plane between the various light source(s) and sensor(s). Alternatively, the various light source(s) and sensor(s) may be positioned in different horizontal and / or vertical planes and optically connected to the sample tube opening 104 via one or more curved light paths.

[0078] For example, in the example embodiment shown in Figs. 6A-6D, the first set of light sources 106 and the second set of light sources 120 are positioned on a bottom side of the sample tube holder 102 and optically coupled to the sample tube opening 104 by curved light paths 114, 124. Using one more curved light paths provides additional flexibility with respect to where the various light source(s) and sensor(s) may be located. The curved light path(s) may be configured as desired for transmitting light. For example, each curved light path may be filled or formed by an optically clear material such as clear epoxy, PMMA, an optical fiber, etc. The curved light paths function as optical waveguides for guiding and transmitting light between the various light source(s) and sensor(s) and the sample tube opening 104.

[0079] When employed, clear epoxy, PMMA, etc. can form sealed light paths while leaving an air gap in the sample tube opening 104. This can be accomplished via a one-step conformal coating and sealing process that embeds or coats the light source(s) and sensor(s), effectively adhering them to the sample tube holder 102. Regardless of how the curved and / or straight light paths are formed, the sample tube holder 102 can preferably be disinfected - typically without a sample tube 200 in the sample tube opening 104 -- without exposing electronic components to liquids or reactants.

[0080] As shown in Fig. 6D, the optical device 100 in the illustrated embodiment includes two curved light paths 114, 124 and two straight light paths 116, 118. It should be understood that more or less light paths, including more or less curved light paths, may be employed in any given implementation of the teachings herein.

[0081] In many embodiments, the optical device 100 does not require filters, monochromators, diffraction gratings, mirrors or diffuser units in the various light paths, thus allowing the device to have a compact construction with minimal components.

[0082] In the example embodiments discussed above, the first set of light sources 106, the second set of light sources 120, the first set of sensors 108, the second set of sensors 110 and / or the third set of sensors 128 are physically coupled to the sample tube holder 102. In these and similar embodiments, the various sets of light sources and / or sensors are preferably arranged on panels (e.g., circuit boards) having a uniform size or footprint for interfacing or coupling to the sample tube holder 102.Additionally, the sample tube holder 102 preferably includes slots, grooves, indentations or other or regions adapted to receive the uniform size panels of light sources and / or sensors. In this manner, the optical device 100 can be readily configured with any desired combination of light source and / or sensor panels.

[0083] Alternatively, the various light source(s) and sensor(s) may be physically coupled to a different portion of the optical device 100 than the sample tube holder 102. For example, in the example embodiment shown in Fig. 7A, the optical device 100 includes a housing 130, and the various light source(s) and sensor(s) are physically coupled to the housing 130.

[0084] Additionally, the housing 130 may define an opening 132 for removably receiving the sample tube holder 102 as shown in Fig. 7A. With this arrangement, the sample tube holder 102 and the sample tube 200 can be removed from the housing 130 as a single unit, and replaced by another sample tube holder 102 and sample tube 200 for analysis. In addition to allowing multiple sample tube holders 102 to be used with the same sensing module, i.e., the housing 130 with light source(s) and sensor(s), each sample tube holder 102 may be dedicated as desired and used only with specific types of samples or procedures, or by specific person(s), etc.

[0085] Further, the removeable sample tube holder 102 preferably isolates the sensing module from each sample tube 200 and prevents contamination of the sensing module by the sample tubes 200. For example, and as shown in Fig. 7A, the removable sample tube holder 102 may include windows 134 formed of glass or another optically transparent material for physically isolating a sample tube 200 positioned in the sample tube opening 104 from the housing 130 when the sample tube holder 102 is removably received in the opening 132 of the housing 130. The windows 134 are preferably coupled to the sample tube holder 102 via watertight seals. In otherembodiments, more or less windows may be employed, as can non-rectangular configurations of the removable sample tube holder 102, etc.

[0086] The windows 134 may include filters as desired for filtering specific wavelength(s). The filters may be, e.g., thin film filters applied to one side of a glass pane or laminated between multiple glass panes, etc. Multiple sample tube holders 102 may also be provided with different window filters or no filters, thus allowing different filters to be used simply by swapping one sample tube holder with another sample tube holder having the desired filter.

[0087] As shown in Fig. 7A, the removable sample tube holder 102 may further include a reservoir 136 for capturing any liquid spills from the sample tube 200. As shown in Figs. 7B and 7C, the housing 130 includes several straight light paths 114, 116, 118, 124. Alternatively, one or more curved light paths can be employed.

[0088] Figs. 8A and 8B illustrate another example embodiment of the optical device 100. In this example embodiment, the optical device 100 includes a case 140 including a top portion 142 coupled to a bottom portion 144 via a hinge 146. The sample tube holder 102 (and the housing 130, if employed) is positioned in the top portion, and a visual display 150 is positioned in the bottom portion 144. The visual display can be used to display parameters determined by the various sensor(s). The control circuit of the optical device 100 is preferably configured to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) on the display 150 that allows a user to control operation of the optical device 100 in various operational modes. The display 150 may be a touchscreen display. The case 140 may also include user-input buttons 158, e.g., for navigating or making selections on the display 150. As shown in Fig. 8A, the case 140 may further include a movable reservoir 148 for selectively covering the sample tube opening 104, i.e., when the case 140 is in its closed position shown in Fig. 8B without a sample tube 200 in the sample tube opening 104. The case 140 may further include a latch 152 for securing the top portion 142 to the bottom portion 144 when the case is in its closed position as shown in Fig. 8B.

[0089] The optical device 100 preferably includes an on-board power source (e.g., a battery) in one or more embodiments so the device 100 is portable. The optical device 100 may further include one or more electrical connectors for charging the onboard power source and / or for communicating with an external computer. In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 9, the optical device 100 includes an electrical connector 154 on its bottom surface for coupling with a complementary connector of anexternal device. The optical device 100 may be adapted to use the electrical connector 154 for powering the optical device 100, for communicating with an external device, for receiving control signals from an external device, etc.

[0090] Fig. 10 illustrates a system 300 for analyzing a plurality of samples contained in a plurality of sample tubes 200. As shown in Fig. 10, the system 300 includes a central hub 302 and multiple optical devices 100 each including a sample tube holder 102. As described above, each optical device 100 includes at least one sample tube opening 104 for receiving a sample tube 200, one or more light sources for illuminating a sample in a sample tube 200 positioned in the sample tube opening 104, and one or more sensors configured to detect light, absorbance, fluorescence, luminescence, reflectance, etc. from a sample in a sample tube 200 positioned in the sample tube opening 104. Additionally, each optical device 100 preferably includes wired and / or wireless means (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.) for communicating with the central hub 302. In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 10, each optical device 100 communicates with and receives power from the central hub 302 via its electrical connector 154.

[0091] As shown in Fig. 10, the central hub 302 includes a support surface having multiple ports 306. The optical devices 100 are preferably adapted to communicate with the central hub 302 when their electrical connectors 154 are positioned on one of ports 306. In some embodiments, the optical devices 100 automatically conduct assays of the sample tubes in their sample tube holders when the optical devices 100 are placed on one of the ports 306. The optical devices 100 may be configured to do this independently or in response to instructions from the central hub. Similarly, the central hub 302 may be configured to automatically initiate test procedures of optical devices 100 placed on the ports 306. The central hub 302 may also be adapted for communication with an external computer that may store test data received from the central hub 302 and / or manage operation of the central hub 302 and any optical devices 100 placed on the ports 306. The ports 306 may be, e.g., magnetic I2C connectors.

[0092] The central hub 302 may include a multiplexor and / or a controller to identify and initialize the connected optical devices 100. To this end, each optical device 100 may include, e.g., unique chip ID to allow automatic recognition, the execution of specific assay protocols upon detection, etc. If desired, each optical device can be assigned to a specific researcher or group of researchers, with multiplescientists sharing the central hub 302, to minimize contamination risks. The central hub is preferably conformally coated.

[0093] In another example embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 11 , the various light source(s) and sensor(s) are each arranged on modules 310 each having the same size or footprint, and the sample tube holder 102 (or housing 130, if employed) includes openings 320 sized to receive the modules 310. Preferably, any given light source or sensor module 310 may be removed from the optical device 100 and replaced with another light source or sensor module 310 to configure the optical device 100 as desired.

[0094] Fig. 12 illustrates another example embodiment of the optical device 100. As shown in Fig. 12, the optical device includes a control circuit for controlling operation of the device in response to user input, commands from an external device, etc. The control circuit preferably includes a microcontroller (such as an ESP32, RP2040, STM32, etc.) or single-board computer (such as a Raspberry Pi) to interface with the light source(s) and sensor(s), execute assays, perform measurements, etc. The control circuit may also include onboard and / or external memory, and computer instructions stored in memory that configure the microcontroller to operate as desired. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12, the control circuit is adapted to communicate with the various light source(s) and sensor(s) via an I2C multiplexor. Alternatively, any other suitable communication protocol may be employed, including I3C, etc. If the light source(s) are LEDs, one or more LED drivers may also be employed. As shown in Fig. 12, the optical device 100 may include a battery and display, as noted above, as well as a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth module for wireless connectivity, a wireless charger, flash storage (e.g., a micro SD card), etc.

[0095] The sample tube holder 102 and the housing 130 (when employed) may be constructed from matte black, light-absorbing material via 3D printing / additive manufacturing, allowing for complex internal geometries, modular designs, and costefficient fabrication of structural, electrically conductive, and optically clear regions in a single printing step. Alternatively, other materials or manufacturing methods may be employed.

[0096] Preferably, the sample tube holder 102, the housing 130 (when employed), the light source(s), the sensor(s) and the associated electronics (including the control circuit) are conformally coated, enabling decontamination, disinfection, and cleaning of the sample tube holder 102 and / or the housing 130 with liquids.

[0097] As apparent to those skilled in the art, the optical device 100 can be used in a wide variety of applications, including to detect or quantify one or more analytes in a liquid or other sample housed, e.g., in 0.2 mL or 0.5 mL PCR tubes. The measurements taken by the optical device 100 can be used to assess absorbance, colorimetric changes, fluorescence, luminescence, reflectance, etc. The optical device 100 can therefore support a variety of different assays including detection of DNA, RNA, and proteins using fluorescent dyes; absorbance-based assays such as Bradford, BCA, and Lowry protein assays, beta-galactosidase, MTT, QTT, Alamar Blue; fluorescence-based assays including Nucleic acid binding dye detection, protein fluorophore quantification, enzymatic activity measurements, live / dead staining and PCR product detection measurement of microbial growth; colorimetric assays such as MTT, [3-galactosidase, or similar tests; dual absorbance-fluorescence assays such as Alamar Blue; Live / Dead assays using fluorescent dye indicators; absorbance and fluorescence wavelength scans; Luciferase-based luminescence assays for detecting light output, such as ATP detection; bioluminescence and chemiluminescence-based tests; and antibiotic susceptibility testing, phage sensitivity assays, Phage Lysis, Live / Dead assays for viability and the quantification of PCR or enzymatic reaction products in real time, time course of reporter expression.

[0098] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An optical device for analyzing a sample in sample tube, the optical device comprising: a sample tube holder having a sample tube opening for receiving a sample tube; a first set of light sources positioned to emit light along an excitation path to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening; a first set of sensors positioned with respect to the sample tube opening to determine absorbance or fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening; and a control circuit adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors.

2. The optical device of claim 1 wherein the first set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

3. The optical device of claim 1 wherein the first set of sensors is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

4. The optical device of claim 1 further comprising a second set of sensors, wherein the first set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the second set of sensors is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the first set of sensors, and the second set of sensors.

5. The optical device of claim 4 further comprising a third set of sensors, wherein the third set of sensors is positioned and adapted to measure luminescenceemitted by a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the first set of sensors, the second set of sensors, and the third set of sensors.

6. The optical device of claim 1 further comprising a second set of light sources positioned to emit light along an excitation path to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the first set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources and adapted to determine absorbance at one or more wavelengths of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the first set of sensors is oriented at a ninety-degree angle relative to the excitation path of the second set of light sources and adapted to detect fluorescence of a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the second set of light sources, and the first set of sensors.

7. The optical device of claim 1 further comprising a second set of sensors and a second set of light sources positioned to emit light along an excitation path to illuminate a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, wherein the first set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the first set of light sources, wherein the second set of sensors is positioned in the excitation path of the second set of light sources, and wherein the control circuit is adapted to control operation of the first set of light sources, the second set of light sources, the first set of sensors, and the second set of sensors.

8. The optical device of any preceding claim wherein one or more sensors is adapted to measure luminescence emitted by a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

9. The optical device of any preceding claim further comprising an additional set of sensors positioned adjacent the first set of light sources or the second set of light sources and adapted to detect light reflected or scattered by a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening.

10. The optical device of any preceding claim wherein the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors are physically coupled to the sample tube holder.11 . The optical device of any one of claims 1 -9 further comprising a housing, the housing defining an opening for removably receiving the sample tube holder.

12. The optical device of claim 11 wherein the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors are physically coupled to the housing.

13. The optical device of claim 11 or 12 wherein the sample tube holder includes a plurality of optically transparent windows for physically isolating a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening from the housing when the sample tube holder is removably received by the housing.

14. The optical device of any one of claims 11 -13 wherein the sample tube holder includes a reservoir for capturing liquid spills.

15. The optical device of any preceding claim wherein the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors are positioned in the same horizontal plane.

16. The optical device of any preceding claim wherein a first light path optically couples the first set of light sources to the sample tube opening, and wherein a second light path optically couples the sample tube opening to the first set of sensors.

17. The optical device of claim 16 wherein the first light path or the second light path comprises an optically clear material.

18. The optical device of claim 17 wherein the optically clear material comprises an optical fiber.

19. The optical device of any one of claims 16-18 wherein the first light path or the second light path is curved.

20. The optical device of any one of claims 16-19 wherein at least one set of light sources includes a UV light source for irradiating the first light path or the second light path.21 . The optical device of any preceding claim wherein the first set of light sources and the first set of sensors each include one or more conformal coatings.

22. The optical device of any preceding claim further comprising a battery for powering the optical device.

23. The optical device of any preceding claim further comprising a visual display for displaying parameters determined by the first set of sensors.

24. The optical device of claim 23 further comprising a foldable case.

25. The optical device of any preceding claim further comprising an electrical connector for electrically coupling the optical device to an external device.

26. A system for analyzing a plurality of samples contained in a plurality of sample tubes, the system comprising: a central hub; and a plurality of sample tube holders, wherein each sample tube holder includes at least one sample tube opening for receiving a sample tube, one or more light sources for illuminating a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, one or more sensors configured to detect light, fluorescence, reflectance and / or luminescence from a sample in a sample tube positioned in the sample tube opening, and (wired or wireless) means for communicating with the central hub.

27. The system of claim 26 wherein the central hub includes a board having a plurality of ports, and wherein the plurality of sample tube holders are each adapted to communicate with the central hub via its means for communicating when the sample tube holder is positioned on one of the plurality of ports.

28. The system of claim 26 or 27 wherein each means for communicating includes an electrical connector for communicating with the central hub.

29. The system of any one of claims 26-28 wherein the central hub is adapted for communication with an external computer.

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