Luminometer system and device

Abstract

An improved luminometer system is shown and described. The luminometer system may include a reagent dispenser and a reagent level detection assembly. Typically, the system includes an ultrasonic sensor to detect an air bubble, when present, within the system.

Description

[0001] LUMINOMETER SYSTEM AND DEVICE

[0002] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional application number 63 / 665524, filed June 28, 2024, which is herein incorporated by reference.

[0003] Field of Disclosure

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to analytical testing, and more particularly to improved microbial adenosine triphosphate detection and luminometer assemblies.

[0005] Background

[0006] Determination of cleanliness in industrial, health care and other settings is important for maintaining good hygiene and sanitation. For example, the surfaces of equipment used for food handling, storage or processing are major sources of microbial and allergen contamination. Microbial contamination can lead to decreased shelf life of products and, if pathogens are present, transmission of disease. Similarly, unexpected allergens on food contact surfaces may contaminate food. Such contamination has the potential to cause adverse reactions, such as an allergic reaction including hives, anaphylaxis and death, in sensitive people who consume or otherwise contact the contaminated food.

[0007] Luminometers, photometers and other instruments for detecting and measuring absorption or emission of light from a test sample can be useful measures of chemical and biological systems and changes, particularly in the determination of emitted light from test samples containing luminescent components. Luminometers, photometers and the like often measure light emission, wherein the test sample, whose light is to be determined, can be maintained at an acceptable optical temperature or other required conditions. Photometer analyzers are typically included for use with multiple bioluminescent or chemiluminescent assay tests. Systems herein analyze in conjunction with a varying number of sample well holders and the like to determine and measure the presence of ATP, pesticides, phosphatase, and somatic cells; predict shelf life; and also to conduct general microbial quality tests for a wide variety of products. Typically, these devices are capable of storing and sorting assay data in its memory, and transferring information to a display panel or printer or a computer system.

[0008] Brief Overview

[0009] This brief overview is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Summary and Detailed Description. This brief overview is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this brief overview intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter’s scope.

[0010] Various embodiments of the inventions provide systems and methods for improved luminometer systems and device efficiency, without the drawbacks presented by the traditional systems and methods.

[0011] As non-limiting examples, in a luminometer system having a reagent dispenser, an air bubble detection assembly detects a bubble, air gap, or the like, when present, within a reagent tubing and provide an indicator notification.

[0012] In another non-limiting example, a bubble detection assembly in a luminometer comprises a reagent reservoir; a reservoir cap adapter securing the reagent reservoir in an operating position; a reagent tubing in fluid communication with the reagent reservoir and having a proximate portion and a distal portion; and an ultrasonic sensor aligned between the proximate portion and the distal portion to detect an air bubble, when present, within the reagent tubing.

[0013] In further non-limiting examples, a bubble detection assembly in a luminometer system may comprise at least one reagent source in fluid communication with the luminometer system; at least one sensor adjacent the fluid communication and adapted to detect a bubble in fluid flow; and a signal indicator in electrical communication with the sensor and adapted to notify an air gap, if present, within the fluid communication.

[0014] In yet further non-limiting examples, a multi-well luminometer to detect microbial adenosine triphosphate in a sample may comprise a mount assembly; a reagent reservoir cap adapter secured about the mount assembly and adapted to receive a reagent reservoir; and an ultrasonic sensor secured about the mount assembly and adapted to detect a reagent air bubble or the like. The foregoing brief overview, along with the following summary and detailed description provide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly, the foregoing brief overview and the following summary and detailed description should not be considered to be restrictive. Further, features or variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, embodiments may be directed to various feature combinations and sub-combinations described in the summary and detailed description.

[0015] Summary

[0016] In accordance with the present disclosure, a bubble detection assembly and luminometer system is provided for analytical testing. This disclosure provides an improved luminometer testing that is convenient, efficient, and safe for the user, particularly when used for analyzing microbial adenosine triphosphate in test samples and the like.

[0017] In one embodiment, a bubble detection assembly in a luminometer system comprises at least one reagent source in fluid communication with the luminometer system; at least one sensor adjacent the fluid communication and adapted to detect a bubble in fluid flow; and a signal indicator in electrical communication with the sensor and adapted to notify the bubble, air gap, or the like, if present, within the fluid communication.

[0018] In certain examples, the system includes reagent piping, tubing, fluid handling device, or the like. The reagent source may include a reagent reservoir. The system may include a reservoir cap adapter to receive the reagent reservoir. The reagent source includes a reagent dispenser. The sensor may include an ultrasonic sensor. The signal indicator generating a notification may correlate to reagent level. The indicator may include an audible buzzer or any audio notification. The indicator may include an intermittent audio corresponding to a reservoir level indication. The indicator may include a constant audio corresponding to a distinct reservoir level indication. The indicator may include an illumination, for instance a light emitting diode. The light emitting diode may correlate to a predetermined reagent reservoir. The system may include a plurality of light emitting diodes corresponding to reagent reservoirs.

[0019] In one embodiment, a bubble detection assembly in a luminometer comprises a reagent reservoir; a reservoir cap adapter securing the reagent reservoir in an operating position; a reagent tubing in fluid communication with the reagent reservoir and having a proximate portion and a distal portion; and an ultrasonic sensor aligned between the proximate portion and the distal portion to detect an air bubble, when present, within the reagent tubing. In certain examples, the assembly includes an electrical housing. The electrical housing may support at least one indicator notification. The indicator notification may include a light emitting diode. The light emitting diode may correlate to a predetermined reagent reservoir. The assembly may include a plurality of light emitting diodes corresponding to reagent reservoirs. The indicator notification may include an audible buzzer. The assembly may include an intermittent audio corresponding to a reservoir level indication. The assembly may include a constant audio corresponding to a distinct reservoir level indication.

[0020] In certain examples, the reagent reservoir may be a removable bottle. The bottle may include a reagent label. The bottle may include volume increment designations. The bottle may include at least one graphic correlating to a reagent. The graphic may be a color scheme. The bottle may include threads to mate with corresponding threads on the reservoir cap adapter, or the like. The bottle may include a fastener.

[0021] In particular examples, the reservoir cap adapter may include a lower support. The reservoir cap adapter may include a body portion. The reservoir cap adapter may include an upper neck. The reservoir cap adapter may include an aperture to receive the reagent reservoir. The reservoir cap adapter may include at least one securement hole. The reservoir cap adapter may include a substantially flat upper face. The reservoir cap adapter may include at least one flange.

[0022] In certain examples, the reagent tubing may include a length to protrude from the reagent reservoir to within the luminometer in an operating position. The reagent tubing may be opaque or the like. The ultrasonic sensor may detect a bubble in a fluid flow about the reagent reservoir prior to reagent dispensing. The ultrasonic sensor may be aligned above the reagent reservoir.

[0023] In one embodiment, in a luminometer system having a reagent dispenser, an air bubble detection assembly detects an air gap, when present, within a reagent tubing and provide an indicator notification.

[0024] In one embodiment, a multi-well luminometer to detect microbial adenosine triphosphate in a sample comprises a mount assembly; a reagent reservoir cap adapter secured about the mount assembly and adapted to receive a reagent reservoir; and an ultrasonic sensor secured about the mount assembly and adapted to detect a reagent air bubble or the like.

[0025] In certain examples, the device may include a signal indicator generating a notification correlating to a reagent level. The luminometer may be a multi-well luminometer. The luminometer may dynamically perform reagent additions, incubation, readings, analysis, and the like. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier assembly. The photomultiplier assembly may include at least one photomultiplier tube. The mount assembly may include a block spacer. The mount assembly may include an adapter plate. The mount assembly may include a sensor back plate.

[0026] In particular examples, the reservoir cap adapter may include a lower support. The reservoir cap may include having a body portion. The reservoir cap adapter may include an upper neck. The reservoir cap adapter may include an aperture adapted to receive the reagent reservoir. The reservoir cap adapter may include at least one securement hole. The reservoir cap adapter may include a substantially flat upper face. The reservoir cap adapter may include at least one flange. The ultrasonic sensor may detect a bubble in a fluid flow prior to reagent dispensing. The ultrasonic sensor may be aligned above the reagent reservoir.

[0027] In one embodiment, a luminometer system for use with a test sample holder to detect microbial adenosine triphosphate in a sample comprises a reagent dispenser adapted to dispense reagent into wells of the test sample holder; and a reagent level detection assembly in communication with the reagent dispenser.

[0028] In particular examples, the system may include a mount assembly. The mount assembly may include a block spacer. The mount assembly may include an adapter plate. The mount assembly may include a sensor back plate. The luminometer may be a multiwell luminometer. The luminometer may dynamically perform reagent additions, incubation, readings, analysis, and the like. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier assembly. The photomultiplier assembly may include at least one photomultiplier tube. The reagent dispenser may include a reagent reservoir. The reagent dispenser may include a reagent flow source. The reagent dispenser may include a reservoir cap adapter. The reagent dispenser may include a reagent piping. The reagent dispenser may include at least one reagent. The reagent dispenser may include a plurality of reagents. The reagent level detection assembly may include a bubble detection assembly. The bubble detection assembly may include an ultrasonic sensor. The bubble detection assembly may detect an air bubble within a reagent or the like. The bubble detection assembly may include a clamp fastener.

[0029] In certain examples, the luminometer may be a multi-well luminometer. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier assembly. The photomultiplier assembly may include at least one photomultiplier tube. The luminometer may include inner light blocking faces. The luminometer may include mirrored inner faces. The luminometer may include absorbing window inner side faces. The luminometer may include a deactivator cavity. The luminometer may include a brace support. The luminometer may include a receptor cavity. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier receptor.

[0030] In one embodiment, a mount system for a bubble detection assembly securable about a luminometer system comprises a block spacer; an adapter plate; and a sensor back plate. In certain examples, the system may include at least one reservoir cap adapter.

[0031] In certain examples, a luminometer system for use with a test sample well holders and the like determine emitted light from the test sample holder. The luminometer may include a housing, a photomultiplier assembly, and a chamber having a mirrored inner side face. The photomultiplier assembly typically has at least one photomultiplier tube. A chamber may be positioned between the entrance tube and in an optical path with the photomultiplier tube.

[0032] In some examples, any of the entrance elements herein may be light blocking. The photomultiplier assembly may include a pair of photomultiplier tubes. The photomultiplier assembly may include a receptor panel. The receptor panel may include a photomultiplier receiver. The absorbing window inner side face may include a layer of black surface or the like. Yet another embodiment of the present disclosure is a luminometer having a housing, a bubble detection assembly, a photomultiplier assembly, and a chamber with a mirrored inner side face. The luminometer generally determines the emitted light from a test sample well or the like. The photomultiplier assembly may include at least one photomultiplier tube. The chamber may be positioned between the entrance and the photomultiplier tube. In addition, a deactivator may be secured in a second deactivator opening. In some examples, the device includes an absorbing window inner side face. In particular examples, the absorbing window inner side face includes a black surface layer.

[0033] In certain embodiments, a bubble detection assembly in a luminometer system comprises a reagent reservoir adapted to house a reagent; a reservoir cap adapter securing said reagent reservoir in an operating position to maintain a sealed fluid pathway; a reagent tubing in fluid communication with said reagent reservoir and having a proximate portion downstream of said reservoir and a distal portion leading toward an injection port of said luminometer system; and an ultrasonic sensor aligned between said proximate portion and said distal portion to detect an air bubble, when present, within said reagent tubing.

[0034] In certain examples, the assembly includes an ultrasonic sensor assembly having at least one ultrasonic transmitter and at least one ultrasonic receiver. The ultrasonic sensor may non-invasively detect said presence of said air bubble, when present, within said reagent tubing by measuring acoustic impedance variations.

[0035] In particular examples, the ultrasonic sensor assembly generates a time-of-flight or amplitude attenuation signal profile corresponding to the presence or absence of a gasliquid interface within said reagent tubing. The ultrasonic sensor assembly may include a housing configured to clamp around said reagent tubing without disrupting fluid flow. The ultrasonic sensor assembly may be operatively connected to a controller. The reagent tubing may be formed of an acoustically transparent material, for instance, but not limited to, facilitating ultrasonic wave transmission. The ultrasonic sensor may be positioned at a vertical orientation, for example to assist reduce false-positive bubble detection during vertical reagent flow. The bubble detection assembly may log any of the bubble detection events shown and described herein, for instance with timestamped records for quality assurance tracking.

[0036] A further embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide a chamber in a luminometer having a housing with an entrance to accept a test sample. The chamber may include an insert portion, a photomultiplier portion and a pressed polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) deactivator or a mirrored surface. Typically, the insert portion is chosen from a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) pressed insert or a mirrored surface, and is generally positioned within the cavity and has a first opening that is generally aligned with the entrance and a second deactivator opening. The photomultiplier portion includes at least one photomultiplier tube. Further, the pressed deactivator is typically secured in the second deactivator opening.

[0037] The above summary was intended to summarize certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Embodiments will be set forth in more detail in the figures and description of embodiments below. It will be apparent, however, that the description of embodiments is not intended to limit the present inventions, the scope of which should be properly determined by the appended claims.

[0038] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0039] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure. The drawings may contain representations of various trademarks and copyrights owned by the Applicant. In addition, the drawings may contain other marks owned by third parties and are being used for illustrative purposes only. All rights to various trademarks and copyrights represented herein, except those belonging to their respective owners, are vested in and the property of the Applicant. The Applicant retains and reserves all rights in its trademarks and copyrights included herein, and grants permission to reproduce the material only in connection with reproduction of the granted patent and for no other purpose.

[0040] The drawings, photographs, pictures, and the like may contain text or captions that may explain certain embodiments of the present disclosure. This text is included for illustrative, non-limiting, explanatory purposes of certain examples and elements detailed in the present disclosure.

[0041] Embodiments of the disclosure will be better understood by a reading of the Description of Embodiments along with a review of the drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure l is a side perspective view of a luminometer system according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed to show internal components and for clarity;

[0043] Figure la is a front view of a bubble detection assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure introduced in Figure 1, with elements removed for clarity;

[0044] Figure lb is a front view of isolated elements of a bubble detection assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure introduced in Figure la, with elements removed for clarity;

[0045] Figure 1c is a front view of isolated elements of a partially assembled bubble detection assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure introduced in Figure la, with elements removed for clarity; Figure Id is a bottom perspective view of a bubble detection mount assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure introduced in Figure 1, with elements removed for clarity;

[0046] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a luminometer assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0047] Figure 2a is a progression chart of a luminometer assembly operation according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0048] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a reservoir adapter according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0049] Figure 4 is a front view of a reservoir adapter according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0050] Figure 5 is a top perspective view of a block spacer according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0051] Figure 6 is a top view of a block spacer according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0052] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of a cap adapter plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0053] Figure 8 is a side perspective view of an electrical housing according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0054] Figure 9 is a front perspective view of a sensor back plate according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed;

[0055] Figure 10 is a side perspective view of an assembly cover according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed in an unassembled position; and

[0056] Figure 11 is a bottom perspective view of system elements according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed. Description of Embodiments

[0057] In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Also in the following description, it is to be understood that such terms as "forward," "rearward," "left," "right," "upwardly," "downwardly," and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0058] It will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified may be considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0059] Certain examples and elements are described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure and are made merely to provide a full and enabling disclosure. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

[0060] The terms “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.”

[0061] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, photographs, pictures, and the like. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims. The present disclosure contains headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the subject matter disclosed under the header.

[0062] Referring now to the drawings in general and Figure 1 in particular, it will be understood that the illustrations are for the purpose of describing embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the disclosure or any invention thereto. In certain embodiments, luminometer elements and processes useful for detecting and measuring luminescence in test materials are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,213,703, issued Jul. 22, 1980; U.S. Design Patent No. D388,519, issued December 30, 1997; U.S. Design Patent No. D393,601, issued April 21, 1998; U.S. Patent No. 5,827,675, issued October 27, 1998; U.S. Patent No. 5,917,592, issued June 29, 1999; U.S. Patent No. 5,965,453, issued October 12, 1999; U.S. Patent No. 5,985,675, issued November 16, 1999; and U.S. Patent No. 6,055,050, issued April 25, 2000; U.S. Patent No. 7,229,783, issued June 12, 2007; U.S. Patent No. 7,993,871, issued August 9, 2011; and U.S. Patent No. 9568413, issued February 14, 2017, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise methods, systems, devices, computer readable mediums, assemblies, and the like comprising, but not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0063] • luminometer assembly

[0064] • air bubble detection assembly

[0065] • mount assembly

[0066] • reagent level detection assembly

[0067] • reagent dispenser assembly

[0068] Details with regards to examples and modules are provided below. Although examples and modules are disclosed with specific functionality, it should be understood that functionality may be shared between examples and modules, with some functions split between examples and modules, while other functions duplicated by the examples and modules. Furthermore, the name of each example and module should not be construed as limiting upon the functionality of the example and module. Moreover, each component disclosed within each example and module can be considered independently, without the context of the other components within the same module or different examples and modules. Each component may contain functionality defined in other portions of this specification. Each component disclosed for one example and module may be mixed with the functionality of other examples and modules. In the present disclosure, each component can be claimed on its own and / or interchangeably with other components of other examples and modules.

[0069] The following may depict an example of a method of a plurality of methods that may be performed by at least one of the aforementioned modules, or components thereof. Further, although the stages here may be disclosed in a particular order, it should be understood that the order is disclosed for illustrative purposes only. Stages may be combined, separated, reordered, and various intermediary stages may exist. Accordingly, it should be understood that the various stages, in various embodiments, may be performed in orders that differ from the ones disclosed below. Moreover, various stages may be added or removed without altering or departing from the fundamental scope of the depicted methods and systems disclosed herein.

[0070] The foregoing overview, summary, and the following detailed description provide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly, the foregoing overview and the following detailed description should not be considered to be restrictive. Further, features or variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, embodiments may be directed to various feature combinations and sub-combinations described in the summary and detailed description.

[0071] As shown in Figures 1-11, certain embodiments include a luminometer system 200 having a reagent dispenser, an air bubble detection assembly that detects a bubble, air gap, or the like, when present, within a reagent tubing 208 and provides an indicator notification.

[0072] For instance, the bubble detection assembly in a luminometer system 200 may include at least one reagent source in fluid communication with the luminometer system 200; at least one sensor 202 adjacent the fluid communication may detect a bubble in fluid flow; and a signal indicator in electrical communication with the sensor 202 may notify a bubble, air gap, or the like, if present, within the fluid communication.

[0073] In certain examples, the system includes reagent tubing, flow apparatus, piping, fluid device, or the like. The reagent source may include a reagent reservoir. The system may include a reservoir cap adapter 220 to receive the reagent reservoir. The reagent source may include any variation of reagent dispenser. The sensor 202 may include an ultrasonic sensor 202.

[0074] As shown and described herein, the assembly may include an indicator triggered by any of the elements herein. The indicator may be audio, visual, electrical, or the like in any combination. For instance, the signal indicator may generate a notification correlating to reagent level, including a low level, approaching low level, empty, or any related indication or the like. The indicator may include an audible buzzer 212, including any audio sound, wording, or the like. The indicator may include an intermittent audio corresponding to any reservoir level indication shown and described herein. The indicator may include a constant audio corresponding to a distinct reservoir level indication. The indicator may include a visual indicator, for instance a light source or graphic, including, but not limited to a light emitting diode. The light emitting diode may correlate to a predetermined reagent reservoir. The system may include a plurality of light emitting diodes corresponding to reagent reservoirs. Those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will recognize any indicator useful herein.

[0075] In one embodiment, a bubble detection assembly in a luminometer comprises a reagent reservoir, including but not limited to an individual reagent container, bottle, flow source, or the like; a reservoir cap adapter 220 securing the reagent reservoir in an operating position; a reagent tubing 208 in fluid communication with the reagent reservoir and having at least a proximate portion 203 and a distal portion 205; and an ultrasonic sensor 202 aligned between the proximate portion 203 and the distal portion 205, for instance at analysis location 207, to detect an air bubble, when present, within the reagent tubing. Those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will recognize a variety of additional locations for any bubble detection shown and described herein.

[0076] In certain examples, the assembly includes an electrical housing 280 to support any of the electronics and connections, including any sensor cables 210 or luminometer components, shown and described herein. As illustrated, the electrical housing 280 may include an interior cavity 284 to support and shield any of the electrical elements shown and described herein. Further, electrical housing 280 may include an alignment surface 282 to align about any of the corresponding luminometer surfaces for compact fitting, including but not limited to outer luminometer housing surfaces. The electrical housing 280 may include receiving port 286 to provide wiring access and the like. Further, the electrical housing 280 may include recesses 288, including a plurality of recesses, to expose visual, including but not limited to lighting, indicators, for instance multicolored light emitting diodes and the like.

[0077] Further, the electrical housing 280 may support at least one indicator notification. The indicator notification may include a light emitting diode. The light emitting diode may correlate to a predetermined reagent reservoir. The assembly may include a plurality of light emitting diodes corresponding to reagent reservoirs. The indicator notification may include any audio shown and described herein, including any audible buzzer 212.

[0078] In certain examples, the reagent reservoir may be a removable bottle 600. The bottle 600 may include a reagent label. The bottle 600 may include volume increment designations. The bottle 600 may include at least one graphic correlating to a reagent. The graphic may be a color scheme. The bottle 600 may include threads to mate with any corresponding element shown and described herein. The bottle 600 may include any fastener to support the operation positions shown and described herein.

[0079] In particular examples, the reservoir cap adapter 220 may include a lower support 222. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include a body portion 224. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include an upper neck 226. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include an aperture 206 to receive the reagent reservoir. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include at least one securement hole 230 to secure the reservoir cap adapter 220 to any of the plate and mount features shown and described herein. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include a substantially flat upper face 228. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include at least one flange. Further, the reservoir cap adapter 220 may include receiving port 236, alignment aperture 234 (for instance adjacent a base 232), and the like to secure and maintain operation systems shown and described herein.

[0080] In certain examples, the reagent tubing 208 may include a length to protrude from the reagent reservoir to within the luminometer in an operating position. The reagent tubing 208 may be opaque or the like. The ultrasonic sensor 202 may detect a bubble in a fluid flow about the reagent reservoir prior to reagent dispensing. The ultrasonic sensor 202 may be aligned above the reagent reservoir.

[0081] In one embodiment, a multi-well luminometer to detect microbial adenosine triphosphate in a sample comprises a mount assembly 204; a reagent reservoir cap adapter 220 secured about the mount assembly 204 to receive a reagent reservoir; and an ultrasonic sensor 202 secured about the mount assembly 204 to detect a reagent air bubble or the like. In certain examples shown and described herein, a first reagent (i.e. any of the reagents supported and shown herein) may eliminate extracellular adenosine triphosphate, and then a second reagent (i.e. any of the reagents supported and shown herein) may lyse live cells. The systems herein may then measure adenosine triphosphate as shown and described.

[0082] In certain examples, the device may include a signal indicator generating a notification correlating to a reagent level. The luminometer may be a multi-well luminometer. The luminometer may dynamically perform reagent additions, incubation, readings, analysis, and the like. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier assembly. The photomultiplier assembly may include at least one photomultiplier tube. The mount assembly 204 may include a block spacer. The mount assembly 204 may include an adapter plate 270. As illustrated in the various figures, the adapter plate 270 may include receiving apertures 274 between surface 272 to receive any of the reservoir cap adapter 220 elements and embodiments shown and described herein. As illustrated, adapter plate 270 may include securement apertures 276 to provide any of the interconnection shown and described herein. Further, the mount assembly 204 may include a sensor back plate 290.

[0083] In particular examples, the reservoir cap adapter 220 may include a lower support. The reservoir cap may include a body portion. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include an upper neck. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include an aperture adapted to receive the reagent reservoir. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include at least one securement hole. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include a substantially flat upper face. The reservoir cap adapter 220 may include at least one flange. The ultrasonic sensor 202 may detect a bubble in a fluid flow prior to reagent dispensing. The ultrasonic sensor 202 may be aligned above the reagent reservoir.

[0084] In certain examples, any of the sensors 202 shown and described herein may be aligned about a segment of the reagent tubing, for instance between the proximate and distal portions. The sensor 202 may be at least one ultrasonic emitter and one receiver positioned on opposite sides of the tubing, configured to detect changes in acoustic impedance that indicate the presence of gas bubbles. The sensor 202 may be housed in a variety of configurations, including a clamshell-style enclosure, for easy mounting without disrupting the tubing or requiring disassembly of the fluid path. In some examples, the ultrasonic sensor 202 is coupled to a microcontroller or data acquisition system that processes the ultrasonic signal, differentiates between liquid and gas phases, and / or triggers responsive actions such as any of the visual or audible alerts, automated valve closure, or logging of error events shown and described herein. Further, the sensor 202 may be calibrated to ignore transient microbubbles below a predetermined volume threshold and to detect only those bubbles that are likely to disrupt reagent delivery or affect measurement accuracy.

[0085] In one embodiment, the sensor 202 includes an ultrasonic transmitter and a corresponding ultrasonic receiver positioned on opposite sides of the reagent tubing to form a through-transmission sensor configuration. The transmitter may emit high- frequency acoustic pulses (for instance in the range of 1-10 MHz), which travel through the wall of any of the reagent tubing shown and described herein, and the fluid contained therein. In use. the receiver 202 may detect the amplitude, phase, and / or time-of-flight of the transmitted signal. When the reagent tubing contains a continuous liquid medium, such as a reagent, the acoustic signal exhibits a relatively uniform transmission profile. However, when an air bubble is present in the sensing region, the acoustic impedance mismatch between the liquid and gas phases causes an attenuation and / or reflection of the acoustic waves. This variation in signal may be interpreted by the system as an indication of bubble presence.

[0086] In some embodiments, the sensor 202 includes signal conditioning circuitry and a microcontroller, or digital signal processor, that is generally capable of real-time analysis of received acoustic signals. The controller may implement algorithms to discriminate between actual gas bubbles and non-gaseous flow anomalies such as turbulence, particulate matter, or the like. Calibration routines may be included to adapt the detection threshold to different reagent viscosities, tubing materials, surrounding environmental conditions, and the like. Further, the ultrasonic sensor 202 may operate in a pulse-echo mode, or the like, where a single transducer acts as both emitter and receiver, measuring the reflected signals from internal tubing interfaces. Additionally, the sensor housing is generally non-invasive and non-destructive, for instance to position around reagent tubing without the need to cut or disconnect the fluid line. Also, any enclosure may incorporate elastomeric acoustic couplants, gel pads, or the like to enhance transmission efficiency between the transducers and any tubing surface shown and described herein.

[0087] In one embodiment, a luminometer system 200 for use with a test sample holder, for instance device 500 or the like, to detect microbial adenosine triphosphate in a sample comprises a reagent dispenser adapted to dispense reagent into wells 504 of the test sample holder; and a reagent level detection assembly in communication with the reagent dispenser to provide test results 402, for instance on a display 400, or the like.

[0088] In particular examples, the system may include a mount assembly 204. The mount assembly 204 may include a block spacer. The mount assembly 204 may include an adapter plate 270. The mount assembly 204 may include a sensor back plate 290. As illustrated, sensor back plate 290 may include sensor positioning openings 292, for instance a plurality of sensor positioning openings, to support and align any of the sensors shown and described herein. Further, the sensor back plate 290 may include electrical housing support apertures to receive and support any electrical housing and the like. In addition, the sensor back plate 290 may include engagement holes 294 to engage any of elements shown and described herein in an operating position.

[0089] The luminometer may be a multi-well luminometer or the like. The luminometer may accept sample 506, for instance via pipetting 508 or the like, and dynamically perform reagent additions, incubation 600, readings, analysis 500, and the like. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier assembly. The photomultiplier assembly may include at least one photomultiplier tube. The reagent dispenser may include a reagent reservoir. The reagent dispenser may include a reagent flow source. The reagent dispenser may include a reservoir cap adapter 220. The reagent dispenser may include a reagent piping. The reagent dispenser may include at least one reagent. The reagent dispenser may include a plurality of reagents. The reagent level detection assembly may include a bubble detection assembly. The bubble detection assembly may include an ultrasonic sensor 202. The bubble detection assembly may detect an air bubble within a reagent or the like. The bubble detection assembly may include a clamp 211 and fastener 213 to secure any of the tubing shown and described herein in an operating position.

[0090] In certain examples, the luminometer may be a multi-well luminometer. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier assembly. The photomultiplier assembly may include at least one photomultiplier tube. The luminometer may include inner light blocking faces. The luminometer may include mirrored inner faces. The luminometer may include absorbing window inner side faces. The luminometer may include a deactivator cavity. The luminometer may include a brace support. The luminometer may include a receptor cavity. The luminometer may include a photomultiplier receptor.

[0091] The bubble detection assembly may be securable about luminometer system 200 in a variety of configurations. As shown in the various Figures, the mount system for a bubble detection assembly securable about a luminometer system 200 may include a block spacer 240; an adapter plate 270; and a sensor back plate 290, or the like. In certain examples, the system may include at least one reservoir cap adapter 220. As shown, the block spacer 240 may include a plurality of cavities, for instance first cavity 254 about first portion 250, second cavity 258 about second portion 246, and third cavity 260 about third portion 248. Further, the block spacer 240 may include an upper surface 242 aligned about upper support 252. As further shown, block spacer 240 may include a plurality of positioning holes 256 to position about any of the mount and structural features shown and described herein.

[0092] In certain examples, the luminometer is shown embodied according to the present disclosure may include a housing and shutter for sealing a test sample in the luminometer for the determination of emitted light from the test sample. The luminometer includes an improved chamber having a pressed polytetrafluoroethylene insert (not shown) for improved efficiency and minimized photon loss during testing. Embodiments of the luminometer may be stationary laboratory bench units, onboard vehicle units, or handheld portable devices as interchangeably described herein. Further embodiments of the luminometer work in conjunction with a variety of sample well holders described herein to determine and measure the presence of ATP, pesticides, phosphatase, somatic cells, as well has a wide range of analytical tests for the quality of a wide variety of products.

[0093] In particular examples, internal elements may be comprised of highly reflective synthetic material, for instance, mirrored surfaces, a pressed polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a smoked magnesium oxide, a pressed magnesium oxide powder, a pressed barium sulfate powder, or similar glasses, tiles, plastics and the like. Applicants have discovered unexpected results from reflective chambers, including mirrored inner side faces, as shown and described herein. Other examples include a variety of other reflective materials and arrangements.

[0094] Certain examples may include sealing elements herein to prevent the interference of external light when the device is in operation. For instance, elements may be composed of a black thermoplastic material, for instance a black DELRIN material produced by DuPont or the like. In particular examples, elements may include high stiffness and dimensional stability to overlay with the PTFE pressed materials described herein for optimized performance.

[0095] In yet other embodiments, any of the luminometers described herein may include an outlet for a power supply, including a battery pack, a communication jack, and the like.

[0096] In other embodiments, the disclosure includes a luminometer kit. In this embodiment, the kit may comprise a luminometer, e.g. any of the luminometer elements previously shown or described, and a bubble detection assembly, e.g. any of the bubble detection elements previously shown or described.

[0097] Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a hardware and software platform operative by a set of methods and computer-readable media comprising instructions configured to operate the aforementioned examples and modules and computing elements in accordance with the methods. The embodiments herein depict an example of at least one method of a plurality of methods that may be performed by at least one of the aforementioned examples and modules. Various hardware components may be used at the various stages of operations disclosed with reference to each example and module. Further, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure, a method may be performed by at least one of the aforementioned examples and modules. The method may be embodied as, for example, but not limited to, computer instructions, which, when executed, perform the method.

[0098] Numerous characteristics and advantages have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of structure and function. Many of the novel features are pointed out in the appended claims. The disclosure, however, is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of parts, within the principle of the disclosure, to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the general claims are expressed. It is further noted that, as used in this application, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless expressly and unequivocally limited to one referent.

[0099] Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein, and every number between the end points. For example, a stated range of “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all subranges between (and inclusive of) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more, e.g. 1 to 6.1, and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less, e.g., 5.5 to 10, as well as all ranges beginning and ending within the end points, e.g. 2 to 9, 3 to 8, 3 to 9, 4 to 7, and finally to each number 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 contained within the range.

[0100] Any sequence(s) and / or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

[0101] Elements and terms used herein refer to that which an ordinary artisan would understand such a term to mean based on the contextual use of the term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein — as understood by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such term — differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan should prevail.

[0102] Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112, ^|6, no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element.

[0103] All rights, including copyrights in any code included herein, are vested in and the property of the Applicant. The Applicant retains and reserves all rights in the code included herein, and grants permission to reproduce the material only in connection with the reproduction of the granted patent and for no other purpose.

[0104] The specification includes examples, the disclosure’s scope is indicated by the following claims. Furthermore, while the specification has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, the claims are not limited to the features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as examples for embodiments of the disclosure. Insofar as the summary and description above and the accompanying drawing disclose any additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claims below, the disclosures are not dedicated to the public and the right to file one or more applications to claims such additional disclosures is reserved.

Claims

We Claim:What is claimed is:

1. A bubble detection assembly in a luminometer system, said bubble detection assembly comprising, a. a reagent reservoir adapted to house a reagent; b. a reservoir cap adapter securing said reagent reservoir in an operating position to maintain a sealed fluid pathway; c. a reagent tubing in fluid communication with said reagent reservoir and having a proximate portion downstream of said reservoir and a distal portion leading toward an injection site at said luminometer system; and d. an ultrasonic sensor aligned between said proximate portion and said distal portion to detect an air bubble, when present, within said reagent tubing.

2. The assembly of Claim 1, wherein said ultrasonic sensor adapted to non- invasively detect said presence of said air bubble, when present, within said reagent tubing by measuring acoustic impedance variations.

3. The assembly of Claim 1, including an ultrasonic sensor assembly having at least one ultrasonic transmitter and at least one ultrasonic receiver.

4. The assembly of Claim 1, including an electrical housing supporting at least one indicator notification.

5. The assembly of Claim 4, including a light emitting diode adapted to correlate to a predetermined reagent reservoir fluid level.

6. The assembly of Claim 1, wherein said reservoir cap adapter having a lower support and a body portion.

7. The assembly of Claim 1, wherein said reservoir cap adapter having an upper neck and an aperture adapted to receive said reagent reservoir.

8. The assembly of Claim 1, wherein said ultrasonic sensor adapted to detect a bubble in a fluid flow about said reagent reservoir prior to reagent dispensing.

9. A multi-well luminometer adapted to detect microbial adenosine triphosphate in a sample comprising: a. a mount assembly; b. a reagent reservoir cap adapter secured about said mount assembly and adapted to receive a reagent reservoir; and c. a sensor secured about said mount assembly and adapted to detect a reagent air bubble.

10. The device of Claim 9, including a signal indicator generating a notification correlating to a reagent level.

11. The device of Claim 9, wherein said luminometer adapted to dynamically perform reagent additions, incubation, and readings.

12. The device of Claim 9, wherein said mount assembly includes a block spacer.

13. The device of Claim 9, wherein said mount assembly includes an adapter plate.

14. The device of Claim 9, wherein said mount assembly includes a sensor back plate.

15. The device of Claim 9, wherein said reservoir cap adapter having a lower support.

16. A luminometer system for use with a test sample holder, said system comprising: a. a reagent dispenser adapted to dispense reagent into wells of said test sample holder; and b. a reagent level detection assembly in communication with said reagent dispenser.

17. The system of Claim 16, including a mount assembly.

18. The system of Claim 17, wherein said mount assembly includes at least one element chosen from the group consisting of: a. a block spacer, b. an adapter plate, and c. a sensor back plate.

19. The system of Claim 16, wherein said reagent dispenser includes a reagent reservoir housing at least one reagent.

20. The system of Claim 16, wherein said reagent level detection assembly includes a bubble detection assembly.

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