Fluorescence detection apparatus

摘要

A fluorescence analysis system detects light transmitted from wells in a sample plate. One embodiment of the system includes a single light detector. A reflector is capable of receiving light from any one of several detection emitters and of reflecting the light toward the light detector. One reflector includes a prism which is mounted on a stepping motor. The prism is selectively rotated so that it faces each detection emitter in turn. The light from several wells in a row is directed toward the light emitter by rotating the prism to face, one-by-one, each of the emitters corresponding to the wells. The detection emitters include one end of an optical fiber bundle. The other end of each bundle is positioned near the wells, with each bundle positioned by a different well to carry light from that well to the corresponding emitter. A collimating lens is positioned between each detection emitter and the rotating prism to focus light from the emitter onto the prism. A baffle is positioned between the light detector and the prism. Light from a xenon arc excitation lamp is carried by optical fiber bundles toward the sample wells. A computerized controller coordinates light detection with the activities of an automated liquid handling system.