PROCESS AND MACHINE FOR AUTOMATED AGGLUTINATION ASSAYS

摘要

The machine is configured to perform an automated rapid plasma reagent (RPR) agglutination test or other agglutination test. The machine includes a sample rack with multiple sample locations thereon and a reagent rack for storing of reagent. A shaker assembly supports at least one microtiter plate or other well supporting structure thereon with a plurality of wells in the plate. An automated syringe or other aspirator and dispenser accesses samples and reagent and deposits them within wells of the microtiter plate. The shaker assembly shakes multiple samples within the wells of the microtiter plate according to the RPR or other agglutination test. Finally, a camera photographs the wells of the plate, preferably from above with a light source below and the plate at least partially transparent, to evaluate whether the specimen is reactive or non-reactive. Test results and photographic evidence of the test results are preferably archived within a database.

主权项

1. A process for automated performance of a rapid plasma reagin test, including the steps of:
loading a sample into a first location; loading an RPR reagent into a second location; gathering a predefined amount of reagent and a predefined amount of sample with an automated aspirator and dispenser; dispensing the reagent and the sample from the aspirator and dispenser into a well of an at least partially transparent plate; automatically shaking the plate for a predetermined amount of time; and photographing the well on the plate.