SAMPLE TESTING APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

Apparatus for performing an assay to detect the presence of an analyte in a test sample. A housing defines a slot for receiving a sample collector, and a capsule contains a buffer liquid, the capsule being sealed by an openable lid, and being connected to the housing such that insertion of a sample collector into the slot causes the lid to open releasing the buffer liquid into the slot. The housing further defines an incubation chamber containing or configured to receive a reagent, and an aperture permitting liquid communication between the slot and the incubation chamber. The apparatus comprises one or more test elements, a substantially liquid tight sealing member separating the incubation chamber and the test element(s), and an activation mechanism operable to open the liquid tight sealing member thereby bringing at least a portion of the or each test element into liquid communication with the incubation chamber.

主权项

1. A reading system adapted for use with an apparatus,
wherein the apparatus is suitable for use in performing an assay to detect the presence of an analyte or analytes in a test sample, the apparatus comprising: a housing defining a slot for receiving a sample collector, the sample collector comprising a swab with a sample; the housing further defining an incubation chamber containing or configured to receive a reagent, and an aperture permitting liquid communication between said slot and said incubation chamber; a capsule containing a buffer liquid, the capsule being sealed by an openable lid, and the capsule being connected to the housing in such relation with said slot and said aperture that insertion of the sample collector into the slot causes the lid to open releasing the buffer liquid into the slot under pressure to communicate a portion of the sample to the incubation chamber via the aperture; the apparatus further comprising: one or more test elements; a substantially liquid tight sealing member separating said incubation chamber and said test element(s); and an actuation mechanism operable to open said substantially liquid tight sealing member thereby bringing at least a portion of the or each test element into liquid communication with said incubation chamber; the system comprising: a housing defining a slot for receiving the apparatus; an actuator for operating the activation mechanism of the apparatus; and a reading mechanism for taking a reading from the or each test element.