INCUBATION STATION FOR TEST SAMPLE CARDS

摘要

An incubation station has a carousel for receiving a plurality of test sample ca rds. An even temperature and air flow distribution inside the carousel and incubation of the cards over time at the proper temperature was found to be critically dependent u pon air flow characteristics within the incubation station. To optimize air flow, the ca rousel was given an open rear side that is exposed to an air distribution table having a co ver plate placed adjacent to the rear surface of the carousel. The cover plate has a plura lity of elongate slots positioned in a symmetrical ring-shaped pattern in registry with the carousel. The elongate slots are positioned at an angle relative to the slots in the carousel such that each carousel slot receives air from more than one slot. An extra fan was also added to the system to increase the flow of air into the air table. Scallop feat ures on the carousel walls also promote even distribution of air flow over the cards. The ca rousel may be divided into a plurality of carousel segments to increase ease of removal and insertion of the carousel into the incubation station and manufacturability of t he carousel.