Performance of an analyzer for biological samples

摘要

An apparatus (11) for processing a sample, circuit board (8008) suited to use in such an apparatus and a method of processing are provided in which the apparatus (11) is provided with alignment features to assist in provided the circuit board and a sample cartridge (9) in the correct position relative to one another. In this way, the plurality of sections for processing a sample in the cartridge (9) are positioned against a plurality of elements, such as a heater (4) for heating the sample cartridge (9) or an electrical contact (EP1-EP4) for powering features on the sample cartridge (9), correctly and can operate independently of one another.

主权项

1. An apparatus for processing a sample, the apparatus comprising:
a circuit board; and a removable sample cartridge having an inserted state in the apparatus; wherein the circuit board has an interface with the removable sample cartridge in the inserted state; wherein the sample cartridge comprises a working surface defining a plurality of sections for processing a sample; wherein the circuit board is configured to be adjacent the working surface in the inserted state and comprises:
a plurality of elements, each of the plurality of elements is associated with one of the plurality of sections and is adjacent the associated one of the plurality of sections in the inserted state; and wherein the circuit board further includes at least one alignment feature for engaging a corresponding alignment feature on the removable sample cartridge and ensuring that the plurality of elements are positioned adjacent the associated one of the plurality of sections in the inserted state; wherein the circuit board further comprises an edge delineating an opening in the circuit board which in the inserted state corresponds to a sample processing chamber on the sample cartridge; wherein additional components separate from the circuit board are configured for processing in the sample processing chamber; the opening in the circuit board being configured to provide access to the sample processing chamber by the additional components.