Method for automated unloading of microbial detection apparatus

摘要

The present invention is directed to a method and automated unloading means for unloading a container from an apparatus. The apparatus of the present invention may include a means for automated loading, a means for automated transfer and/or a means for automated unloading of a container (e.g., a specimen container). In one embodiment, the apparatus can be an automated detection apparatus for rapid non-invasive detection of a microbial agent in a test sample. The detection system also including a heated enclosure, a holding means or rack, and/or a detection unit for monitoring and/or interrogating the specimen container to detect whether the container is positive for the presence of a microbial agent. In other embodiment, the automated instrument may include one or more, bar code readers, scanners, cameras, and/or weighing stations to aid in scanning, reading, imaging and weighing of specimen containers within the system.

主权项

1. An automated detection apparatus for rapid non-invasive detection of microorganism growth in a test sample, comprising:
(a) a housing enclosing an interior chamber, said housing further comprising a first exit location and a second exit location operable for unloading a specimen container from said interior chamber; (b) a holding structure contained within said interior chamber and comprising a plurality of wells for holding one or more of said specimen containers; (c) a detection unit located within said interior chamber for the detection of microorganism growth in said specimen container, wherein said detection unit is operable to determine if said specimen containers are “positive” or “negative” for microorganism growth therein; and (d) an automated transfer mechanism located within said interior chamber, said automated transfer mechanism comprising a gripper mechanism and a spring clip associated with the gripper mechanism, the automated transfer mechanism operable for the automated transfer of a “positive” specimen container from said holding structure to said first exit location, or for the automated transfer of a “negative” specimen container from said holding structure to said second exit location, wherein the spring clip snaps the gripper mechanism over a lip of a specimen container during transfer.