Abstract:
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are mounted in an array to an upper structure overlying a lower structure with a plurality of light detectors thereon. Each LED is configured to overlie a separate detector. Each LED emits light at a frequency relevant for measuring optical density of a specimen. LEDs having different frequencies are included within the LED array. A corresponding array of detectors is also provided, mounted to the lower structure. Spacing between adjacent LEDs and between adjacent detectors match a spacing between wells in a microtiter plate. Spacing between the lower structure and the upper structure supporting the LEDs is sufficient for the microtiter plate to fit between. Circuitry sequentially fires individual LEDs and gathers optical density data through the detectors for specimens in the wells of the microtiter plate. The structures are then moved to a next adjacent well position on the microtiter plate and the process repeated.
Abstract:
A diagnostic assay system including a test device and a scanning device are described. In one implementation, the scanning device includes a source of electromagnetic radiation, an optics assembly, a detector, and a microprocessor disposed within a chassis. The test device and scanning device may be configured to be movable relative to each other during operation of the scanning device.
Abstract:
Scanning of a microarray is performed through a mask that exposes a plurality, but not all, of the sites of the microarray, and either the mask is movable relative to the microarray or the microarray is movable relative to the mask, or both. The mask is useful as a means of restricting the illumination of sites on the microarray to those that can be illuminated while the scan head is traveling at a steady, target velocity, blocking the passage of light between the scan head and the microarray at those points in the scan head trajectory where the scan head is either accelerating or decelerating. The mask is also useful for reducing background noise in the microarray image by preventing light spillage to sites adjacent to those being scanned.
Abstract:
The present invention relates generally to the field of biochemical laboratory instrumentation for different applications of measuring properties of samples on e.g. microtitration plates and corresponding sample supports. The object of the invention is achieved by providing an optical measurement instrumentation wherein a sample (281-285) is activated (212AS, 218AS) and the emission is detected (291, 292), wherein between the activation and detection phases of measuring the sample, a shift is made in the relative position between the sample and means (218) directing the activation radiation to the sample as well as in the relative position between the sample and the means (293) receiving the emission radiation from the sample. This can be implemented e.g. by moving (299) the sample assay plate and/or a measuring head between the activation and emission phases of a sample. The invention allows a simultaneous activation of a first sample and detecting emission from a second sample thus enhancing efficiency of the measurement.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a photometric device for measuring optical parameters. The invention functions in the ultraviolet light range through use of a monochromator and splits the test light in multiple channels by a rotor assembly, including a mirror.
Abstract:
An apparatus for the calibration and quality assurance of a multichannel spectrophotometer, particularly an ELISA spectrophotometer, comprises film selectively exposed in the presence of a color to produce a series of filters (columns 3-10) having a known first color and linearly increasing optical density. The response of the spectrophotometer is measured against the known color and linearly increasing optical density. Additional filters (columns 11-12) of at least one additional color permit checking the color response of the spectrophotometer. An algorithm determines whether the response conforms to predetermined conditions. An output is produced to provide a record of the calibration and quality assurance of the spectrophotometer. The invention has particular utility for conducting calibration and quality assurance of ELISA spectrophotometers used in clinical laboratory screening for infectious diseases, such as Hepatitis B and the AIDS viruses.