Importance

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Abstract

A sampling system and method especially adapted for blood is provided wherein a plurality of sample tubes are positioned for ready access on a support wheel. The blood is processed by robotics under the control of a microprocessor that includes indexing of the wheel, identifying the container and indicating the condition of the blood. Signals indicating the index position of the wheel, fibrin or protein string in the serum of the blood, as well as other properties of the blood can be obtained in the processing system, the information maintained matched to the sample and analyzed, and data generated and stored without human intervention. To obtain the serum separation, the support wheel is placed in a centrifuge before the processing steps. The sample tubes are removably positioned between adjacent radial arms on the wheel and are pivotal in a pendulum fashion to allow the centrifuge operation. The wheel can be robotically picked up and moved to and from the centrifuge or storage positions. The tube holding unit includes a body and retainer for the tube and a laterally extending receiver for sample cups. A pendulum support bar includes magnetic detent means and an extension above the pivot pin for receipt in a recess in the body of the tube holding unit. The body of the unit also includes a concave reflector for photo energy scanning.

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First Claim