Fluid sample preparation systems and methods

摘要

Sample application systems can include an extraction mechanism to remove a sample from sample containers, a sample vessel disposed on a deployment mechanism, where the deployment mechanism is arranged to move the sample vessel to receive a sample, an extraction mechanism washing station to wash the extraction mechanism, a sample applicator to remove a portion of the sample in the sample vessel and apply it onto a sample carrier, where the deployment mechanism can move the sample vessel to a sample application position, a sample vessel washing station to wash the sample vessel, where the deployment mechanism can move the sample vessel to the sample vessel washing station, a sample applicator washing station to wash the sample applicator after the sample has been dispensed onto the sample carrier, and a fluid control system to control flow of a fluid provided to the extraction mechanism and the sample applicator.

主权项

1. A method of handling a sample, the method comprising:
receiving a sample container containing a volume of a sample; removing a sample from the sample container using an extraction device; dispensing the sample into a sample vessel with the extraction device; washing the extraction device by dispensing a fluid through the extraction device; moving the sample vessel containing the sample to a sample application position; removing a portion of the sample from the sample vessel using a sample applicator; dispensing the sample portion from the sample applicator to directly contact a surface of a sample carrier, wherein the sample portion is dispensed onto the surface in at least one of a serpentine pattern, a raster pattern, a spiral pattern, a pattern of concentric circles, and a pattern of multiple lines; rinsing the sample applicator by dispensing fluid through the sample applicator; and washing the sample vessel to remove any residual sample.