Automatic chemical testing apparatus

Descriptive report,>

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to request PATENT OF INVENTION for 20-. Onos the name of JOHN JOSEPH MORAN 'North American entity!_; Residing at 10907 Walwick Drive, Honston, Texas, United States

I ^: United of America by: A CHEMICAL TESTING DEVICE (International GOln class)

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The present invention relates to improvements in an automated chemical testing apparatus, which gives an automation of routine chemistry procedures to give them greater uniformity, greater efficiency, precision and all with a lower unit cost, a-1 that can be obtained with manual operation, at the same time that it gives a discretionary selectivity of the tests to be executed on each sample. The present apparatus can in general automate most of the laboratory tests that can be carried out in a single reaction or test tube, by automatic and selective collection of the test samples and distribution of the appropriate amounts to the programmed test tube, application of the necessary reagents in the appropriate position, heating f

of the desired tubes at the appropriate temperatures, optical analysis of the results of the chemical tests, and washing and drying of the tubes in preparation for the following tests.

Summary of the invention

The present invention tends to various improvements in an automated chemical testing apparatus, in which a conveyor is arranged to carry and cyclically return a plurality of rows of er tubes · sayo from one position to another and in which · is disposed a dashboard or program control to select all or any combination of various tests with each sample, tests that run automatically, how the results are automatically recorded and the components are returned for continuous work.

One of the improvements of the present apara ·

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to consists of a closed loop or loop conveyor that includes a plurality of essentially rigid, transversely placed slats, and each slat includes openings to firmly support a row of test tubes at an intermediate part between its ends from the conveyor, so that the open mouths or ends of the tubes extend upwards above the high end or upper section of the conveyor and the lower closed ends of the tubes extend below the upper part of the loop, whereby They can effect: chemical tests were carried out in the reaction tubes of the upper part of the loop as they were oriented or passed from line to another of the various positions, then the tubes were inverted and emptied of their contents to me

as the conveyor is rotated, so that the tubes will be turned upside down for cleaning.

Another object of the present invention resides in a tube heating means, located inside the loop and movable upwards to heat the bottom of at least some of said tubes placed ex the upper part of the loop, and movable downwards to let the conveyor turn? and means for drying tubes to dry the tubes and movable in the sense of moving away from them to let the conveyor rotate;

as well as a mechanical articulated link system that automatically increases synchronization of the movement of the conveyor with the rise and fall of the tube heating means and with the retraction and exit of the tube drying means; and which also include that they are applied to the conveyor to let it affect

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its forward movement only at a predetermined distance; and retention or blocking means in cooperation with the carrier, to block it in position between forward movements.

Another object of the present invention resides -in improved means for distributing samples; -to the tubes ,, means that include a rotating sample table that holds the test samples, a collection and distribution conduit connected to a pipe filled with water with a cylinder and plunger assembly connected to the pipeline to suction a sample from the sample table and supply or distribute portions of the sample to the programmed tubes, with a threaded screw-activating the assembly to accurately control the amount of sample collected or distributed; said means also including a piston and air separation cylinder ρε t

ra create interfacial zones of separation by air in the pipe in order to reduce any effect of dilution or contamination of the distributed samples; and which also include more cleaning means to pass a puffing medium through the conduit and the pipe in order to reduce the possibility of contamination between test samples.

Another feature of the present invention resides in the provision of calibrated means for injecting reagents into the test tubes, means that include a cylinder and plunger placed between two check valves (unidirectional) which in turn include rectified glass valves or flat ground to give a positive seal, inert to the reagents; and in which the outlet pipes of the distribution means direct

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the reagents at an angle to the axis of the test tubes to create a convenient mixing action between the reagent and the contents of the tubes; and in which tíáy · '^^ drive means loosely connected to the piston in a transverse direction, to avoid misalignment of the piston in the cylinder. v

A further object of the present invention resides in optical reading means, in which there are a plurality of cuvettes provided with elongated passages, which can be lowered to the test tubes to aspirate the contents of these and take them inside the cuvettes; and in which the optical reading sequentially explores the cuvettes and the test results are properly recorded; and in which the aspiration is provided by a cylinder and plunger so that the cuvettes are drained after the analyzes and sqn also cleaned by a sudden irruption of air that leaves a very low surface factor of waste and reduces the drag or accumulation of waste at negligible chemical levels, providing a sinuous passage in the cuvette to prevent the samples from leaving the cuvettes by aspiration.

Another feature of the invention is the provision of an optical reading system in which a phosphate glass lens is used to reduce the admissibility of heat from the light source preventing it from adversely affecting the reading results, and there is a filter placed between the cuvette and the light measuring device in order to separate the filter from the light source and reduce the adverse effect of heat on the filter.

Another feature of the present invention re29.11.68

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side in the forecast of a programmable control system based on a calculator, to give discretionary and selective control of the tests to be carried out on each sample, a system that includes a control panel and programmed selection that has an activation switch by tube to selectively program the chemical tests to be performed with each sample; and in which the calculator ^ includes a first contact box electrically connected to the control panel and a second contact box - with forward movement in orientation with respect to the first contact box in synchronism with the conveyor, '; electrically connected and controlling the means of distribution of samples; to the reagent injection means and the reading means as the second frame is advanced with respect to the first one and the activation switches of the first frame are electrically connected to the second frame; and which also includes a reagent selection chart provided with a plurality of position receptacles corresponding to each possible position for injecting reagents into the tubes, and electrical connections to selectively connect each of the position receptacles to the injection means of Reagents desired.

Brief description of the attached drawings.

- Figure 1 is a general perspective view of a preferred apparatus of the present invention;

- figure 2 is a front elevation in skeleton of the apparatus of fig. one;

- Figure 3 is a back elevation in skeleton of the apparatus of fig. one;

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- Figure 4 is an elevational view of an example of a plurality of reaction or test tubes. e..iltjtra the positions corresponding to the sample insertion station, reaction stations, heating positions and reading stations, indicating the possible types of tests that can be carried out;

- Figure 5 is a schematic elevation of the carrier of the present apparatus carrying the test tubes, and also indicates possible positions for washing and drying tubes;

- Figure 6 is an electrical diagram illustrating the power supply to the various components of the apparatus;

- Figure 6A is a view of the circuit breaker box

tores;

- Figure 7 is a fragmentary elevation in elevation, partially in section, illustrating the elements with sample collection and distribution speakers of the present invention;

Figure 8 is a view 'taken along the line

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illustrates the operation of the carriage and the collection arm thereof, represented in a distribution position;

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- figure 13 is a view similar to fig. 12, and illustrates the car and its arm in a recovery position¹· Sample size;

- Figure 14 is a schematic and perspective view, partially in straight section, illustrating the hydraulic distribution and sample collection assembly;

- Figure 15 is a view on line 15-15 of Figure 14;

- Figure 16 is a schematic view showing the operation and control of the collection and distribution assembly of the present apparatus;

- Figure 17 is a fragmentary elevation of the endless conveyor assembly that supports and transports the test tubes;

- figure 18 is a view on line 18-18 of fig. 17;

- figure 19 is a view on line 19-19 of fig. 17;

- figure 20 is a view on line 20-20 of fig. 19;

- Figure 21 is a perspective of the isolated activation system that puts the transport into action! endless, the heating baths and the tube drying means of the present apparatus;

- Figure 22 is an elevation view, partially in straight section, of the articulated activation system used to orient the conveyor, raise and lower the heating baths and dry and retract the tube drying means, the articulated link elements being seen in their first and second positions;

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- figure 23 is a view similar to fig. 22, which represents the articulated link elements, in their fourth and fifth positions; '··' ·

- Figure 24 is an elevational, fragmentary and enlarged view, with parts of straight section, illustrating the operation of the advance or orientation nail, which is applied to the conveyor sprocket, in its first and first positions. second;

- figure 25 is a view similar to fig.

24, which illustrates the position of the advancing nail in its third, fifth and sixth positions; -; .

- figure 26. is a fragmentary and enlarged perspective, with parts in section, of the advancing nail of figs. 24 and 25;

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- Figure 27 is an enlarged elevational view of a part of the conveyor, illustrating construction details;

- Figure 28 is a fragmentary and enlarged perspective illustrating a method of fixing the test tubes to the conveyor slats;

- Figure 29 is a fragmentary straight section view of the conveyor of the present apparatus, illustrating the position of the heating baths with respect to Ιοφ test tubes;

- figure 30 is a view on line 30-3o of fig. 29;

- Figure 31 is a schematic view of the water supply connections to the water heating baths;

- Figure 32 is an enlarged elevation view,

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in a straight section, of a part of the conveyor, which represents the washing sets of tubes and slats; _

- Figure 33 is a perspective view of the electrical tube heating assembly of the apparatus?

- Figure 34 is a schematic view of the control system of the final wash assembly; -

- Figure 35 is a fragmentary and wide elevational view, with parts in straight section, illustrating the connections of the reagent distributor assembly;

- Figure 36 is an enlarged elevational view, in straight section, illustrating the lower part of the reagent dosing assemblies; . '

- Figure 37 is an enlarged elevational view, in straight section, of the upper part of the dispensing and dispensing assembly of reagents of fig. 36;

- Figure 38 is a fragmentary and enlarged perspective of the connection of the supports for the outlet pipe of the reagent distributor assembly, in a position located above the reagent tubes;

- Figure 39 is a fragmentary and wide view in elevation, in straight section, illustrating the position of the outlet pipe of a reagent dispensing assembly, relative to a test tube;

- Figure 4-0 is an enlarged elevational view of the reading set;

- figure 41 is a view on line 41-41 of fig. 40;

- figure 42 is a view on line 42-42 of fig. 40;

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- figure 43 is a view on line 43-43 of fig. 42; in the position of aspirating the contents of the tubes and passing it to the cuvettes;

- Figure 44 is a fragmentary and wide elevation in straight section of the cylinder and piston assembly to be filled and ejected from the reading cuvettes from the test tubes;

- figure 45 is a view similar to 'fig. 43, θ illustrates the movement of the cylinder with respect to the éjr, bo4 lo to empty the cuvettes;

- figure 46 is a view similar to fig.

44, and illustrates the relationship of the cylinder and the drain port with respect to the plunger, to empty the cuvettes;

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derating of the covers covering the exciter lamp in the photocell reading block assembly;

- Figure 53 is an electrical and mechanical scheme of the reading system;

- Figure 54 is a mechanical and electrical scheme of the mechanical operation of the test set;

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- Figure 55 is a mechanical and electrical diagram of the optical reading system of the present apparatus;

- Figure 56 is a fragmentary and wide elevation, with parts in straight section, illustrating the bidirectional clutch assembly used in the present apparatus;

- figure 57 is a view on line 57-57 of fig. 56; ''

- Figure 58 is a view on line 53i-58.

of fig. 56; . ...

- figure 59 is a view on line 59.-59 of fig. 58;

- Figure 60 is a fragmentary view of the control panel by program of the present apparatus; . - Figure 61 is a fragmentary and broad view of the control-by-program chart, which illustrates the in; activation terruptors and indicator lamps;

- figure 62 is a section on line 62-62 of fig. 61;

- Figure 63 is an electrical schematic diagram of the control system of the present invention;

Figure 64 is a fragmentary and enlarged perspective, with parts in section, illustrating the mechanical structure of the calculator of the present apparatus;

- Figure 65 is a straight sectional view of the mobile and fixed tables of the calculator of the present invention, and illustrates how to advance one with respect to the otio;

- figure 66 is an enlarged straight sectional view, taken along line 66-66 of fig. 65; Y

- Figure 67 is an electrical diagram of the synchronism circuit of the present apparatus.

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Description of preferred embodiments.

Referring now to the drawings, and in particular * · · · to figs. one to 5 inclusive, the automatic chemical test apparatus, or discretionary sequence multiple analysis apparatus, of the present invention is indicated in g. which includes in general: (1) a loop or endless belt conveyor 22 carrying a plurality of rows of open open containers, or test tubes 24, in which the various separate longitudinal rows 26 indicate different chemical tests that they can be executed, while each separate transverse row 28 is provided to receive a single individual sample 'in which the various tests can be carried out as the conveyor 22 advances or steers successively, carrying the test tubes 24 and passing them through various positions in the ouales, various stages of the chemical test are carried out; (2) a sample distributor assembly 30, which may include a rotary advance table 32 for holding the test specimens, and a collecting and distributing apparatus 34 for collecting from the advancement gland 32 the amount of sample needed and supplying or distribute each sample in a single transverse row 28 of tubes 24, in the necessary quantities and for the programmed tests; (3) a reagent distributor assembly 36, which may include a plurality of reagent containers 38, connected to dispensing units 40, which in turn are connected to outlets placed above Ioei test tubes 24 in the post or convenient position of conveyor 22, to distribute reagents in the sequence

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appropriate and in the proper position, in the trials ... that are being executed; (4) suitable heating means 42 located to heat the test tubes 24 in the convenient positions as the tubes 24 are advanced along the conveyor 22 according to the needs 4e of the chemical tests being carried out; (5) a reading or test set 44 to analyze the results of chemical tests they are running; (6) cleaning means for cleaning the tubes 24 after completion of the tests in a particular transverse row 28; (7) -mediate tube dryers, to dry the tubes in preparation for their new use and return to the test cycle; and (8) suitable control means to selectively control the successive multiple analysis and synchronization of the aforementioned components.

By way of example, the 2C apparatus will be described in its application to a multiple number of tests to be performed in blood serum, even though, of course, the present apparatus can be used for a variety of successive and discretionary multiple chemical analyzes that can be performed in a single reaction or test tube. For example only, and with reference to figs »4 and 5, there is a plurality of ten longitudinal rows 26 of sixty tube 24 each, supported and oriented with avapce movement by means of the conveyor 22. As will be written in greater detail below, a sample will be distributed among one or more of the ten tubes of a single transverse row 28, and as the transverse row 28 advances it will be placed in the various reaction or test positions or positions where the convenient chemical operations are executed for

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ra the different tests carried out in the individual longitudinal rows 26, operations such as heating, mixing and adding reagents to perform it, desired chemical analysis; as it relates, for illustrative purposes only, in fig. 4 and in relation to the f: individual longitudinal 26; after. which the horizontal rows will reach the reading post, which will analyze and record the average values. Once the reading is finished, as best seen in fig. 5, the tubes 24 are inverted, emptied of their contents and passed through one or more washing stations and at least one drying station, from where they are returned again to the post of introduction of samples, for a new cycle.

With reference now to figs. 7 to 16, the conr together 30 sample distributor includes a collection and distribution apparatus 34 that performs the function of moving towards the rotary advance table 32 and collecting a sample to be tested, moving it to one of the transverse rows 28 of tubes of test 24 and injecting an average amount of the sample into each of the tubes 24 of said line according to the test schedule. The orientation or advancement rotary table 32 is best seen in figs. 7, 8, 9 and 16, and includes a plurality of test tube containers 46 that can be introduced into a plurality of openings 48 uniformly distributed in a circle by the feed table 32. Under a feed table 32 a sleeve 50 can be placed water cooling (figs. 7, 8 and 9) equipped with an inlet 52 and an outlet 54 to provide a temperature controlled device for the samples contained in the containers 46, so that they are not adversely

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affected by the temperature and in particular by the heat generated by the components of the apparatus 20. An advance motor 56 of the rotary table moves the table 32 by means of a speed reducer 58 at periodic intervals ',' - to advance by Increase the sample containers 46 individually to a collection position, in response to a control system that will be described c.on greater^: detail later. ¹

The collection and distribution apparatus 34 includes a collection and distribution conduit, such as a needle 62, carried by a carriage 64 which in turn can; move and go supporting on a carriage arm 66, which to^--It is supported with a turning movement around one. of its ends (figs. 7, 8, 9, 10, 13 and 16), so that the distribution collection duct or needle 62 can be carried over the sample container 46 on the table₍forward 32 to the pickup position as best seen in fig. 7, broken line silhouette, to collect a sample to be tested; after which the arm 66 of the carriage is returned to the position shown with full line in fig. 7, above a transverse row 28 of tubes 24, to inject into the individual tubes 24 portions of the sample, in which the programmed tests are to be carried out.

As can be seen in the best way in figs. 7,

9. 12&gt; 13 and 16, there is a pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly 68 connected to an arm 70, which in turn is connected to the arm 66 of the carriage to rotate the arm 66 and therefore carry the carriage 64 outwardly above of the rotary advance table 32; and after picking up a

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29.ll.68 shows retracting arm 66 to a position on a transverse row 28 of tubes, test 24 ,, The air supply for activation and retraction .. '&lt;fel pneumatic assembly 68 of piston and cylinder and , therefore, of the arm 66 of the carriage, is carried out by means of an air passage valve 71 (fig. 16)_or

The longitudinal movement of the carriage 64 along the length of the arm 66 is best appreciated in figs. 12, 13 and 16, in which a carriage engine 72 moves a pulley 74 by means of an inverting clutch 76 which in turn extends (retracts), retracts and controls the position of the carriage 64 along the arm 66 by by means of a control cable 78 that passes around crazy pulleys 80, 82, 84, 86 and 88 and νει fixed to block 90 of carriage 64, with which it can control

I position the position of carriage 64 along arm 66 by connecting, disconnecting and reversing the ambrague 76.

An overall view of the spreading and distribution apparatus 43 is best seen, in fig. 14, where it is seen that the apparatus includes a cup 81, 85 of waste and washing (figs_or 9. 11. 7. 14 and 16), which has an outlet 83 for discarding excess sample fluid, with a wash cup 85 provided with an inlet 87 of water τ. other means of washing or. cleaning, overflowing the glass. washing 85 going to waste 81 and leaving for 1ε. exit 83. As can be best seen from figs. 7 and 9, the waste and washing cup 81 is located in line with a transverse row 28 of tubes, at the inner end of the arm 66 »As, according to the programmed tests, a single sample of the table of

- 17 10 feed 32 to distribute it in the tubes 24 of a single transverse row, after which the excess sample 32 is distributed, having to take a new sample * from the table 32 to distribute it from a cross row 28 of tubes different, it is important that there is no contamination unwanted mixing of one sample with another, and it is also convenient that the distribution of a single sample by the various tubes of a transverse row be made in the other conditions, to avoid variations in the samples distributed in the various tubes, such as which could be produced by dilution. Thus, it is preferred, as seen best in fig. 10, enable a pipe 89 connected to the collection or distribution duct or needle 62 which is part of the collection and distribution apparatus 34 and generally consists of a closed water system, such as the one composed of water 91, followed by an area of ​​interfacial air] or of separation '92, a second interfacial zone 94 which ccm turns on a part of the sample to be tested, a second zone of interfacial air 96 followed by an aliquot part of my additional sample, and then the main sample 98 to be distributed or supplied. By way of example, assuming that each of the tests to be carried out requires a sample quantity of 0.1 cc, sample 94 may be 0.1 cc and the main sample 9θ may have a volume equal to the number of tests to be programmed multiplied by 0.1 cc, plus an additional amount of 0.2 cc. Thus, while the interfacial air zones 92 and 96 perform the function of preventing the mixing between the water 91 and the main sample 9θ, the additional sample 94 and the additional aliquot part of the collection of the feed table 32 before distributing

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the samples in the tubes 24 will wash the interior of the pipe 89 with the same type of material to be supplied or distributed, thereby reducing any tendency of the tube; 39 previously washed. to produce, for example, a dilution effect in the main sample 98.

In order to have the desired collection of the sample to be tested and distributed in the tubes 24, the collection and distribution apparatus 34, as best seen in fig. 14, -includes a cylinder and piston assembly 100 for sample collection and distribution, a water wash piston and cylinder assembly 102, a piston and cylinder assembly 104 | dro to raise and lower needles, and a set 106 of piston and air cylinder, to create interfacial air zones $ in the pipe 89.

F

Gomo is illustrated in fig. 14, the needle 62 is in the low position to which it has been carried by the piston and cylinder assembly 104. When the needle 62 is low, the water wash piston and cylinder assembly 102 is activated from one side to the other by means of the washing motor 108 and through a rotating arm 110, to aspirate water into the needle 62 and aila pipe 89 and expelling it from them in order to clean the pipe 89 and the needle 62 as the water inlet 87 passes water to the washing cup 85 and goes out the drain 83. After washing the needle 62 and the pipe 89 stops the washing motor 108, the piston and cylinder assembly 104 is activated to raise the needle 62, and the collection and distribution apparatus 34 is then arranged to move to the position of collection of specimens or samples, above the advance table 32. Upon reaching the collection position (figs.

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and 13), the piston and cylinder assembly 104 ρε is activated, causing the needle to lower, dragging the piston 107 into the cylinder 106 and producing the aspiration of an interfacial air zone 92 (Figure 10) in the pipe 89 and into the sample container 46 which has been moved to the position of collection by the table 32. The assembly 100 sucks a sample 94 into the pipeline .89 by rotating a spindle 116, by means of the mote 112, which moves the cylinder llS with respect to the piston 117. The piston and cylinder assembly 104 is reactivated stop raising the needle 62. The assembly 100 and the joint 104 are activated to lower the agqp 62 and aspirate another interfacial part of air 96 into the pipe 89. The motor.' of suction and distribution 112, which operates through the inverter clutch 114, rotates the spindle 116 and, therefore, moves the cylinder 118 of the piston and suction and distribution cylinder assembly 100, aspirating the programmed amount of test specimen or test sample 98 into the needle 62 and the pipe 89. When the programmed sample quantity is collected, taking it from a sample container 46, the engine 112 is stopped, the piston and cylinder assembly 104 is activated by raising the needle 62, the gear of the motor 112 is reversed and, therefore, , that of the spindle 116, retracting the cylinder 118 to return a segment of the sample 9 copa to the sample cup or container 46 to be sure that the rate of distribution of the sample in the tubes 24 will be the same in all of them. The arm 66 of the carriage is retracted above the transverse row 28 of test tubes 24, and the control system puts the carriage 64 into action until the needle is placed .1

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above the first test tube 24 that has been programmed to perform the test. The inverter clutch 114 is put into action and a measured amount of sample is supplied to the reaction tube 24. The inverter clutch 114 is deactivated, and the carriage 64 then moves past the next tube 24 of the transverse row, programmed to perform an essay; the inverter clutch 114 is reactivated and a measured sample quantity is supplied to that test tube 24. The process of distribution of measured quantities of sample fluid in each of them. test tubes 24 of a transverse row are continued until all the programmed test tubes have received their sample. Once the last programmed test has received your sample, the carriage 64 moves to the waste cup 81, to which it supplies the additional sample aliquot, the needle 62 is lowered and the cycle of the washed.

With reference now to fig. 16, er. especially the sequence of operation and contrq] of the collection and distribution apparatus 34. From the control system, which will be studied in greater detail below, the information relating to the tests to be carried out is received in a control 115 of sample selection and, therefore, relative to which longitudinal rows 26 of tubes 24 the sample to be tested will be distributed. Upon receiving signals from the sample selection control 115, the air valve 71 is activated, which, in turn, triggers the pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly 68 to rotate the arm 66 of the carriage to the sample table 32, at the same time a signal is sent to the control 119 of the car and

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29.11, 68 to the suction time regulator 121 and the car engine 72 being activated by means of its clutch 76 and pulley 74, is it enough to move the carriage 64 towards the sample table 32? .-The clutch 76 of the car engine is reversed, and this is. above the collection position of the table 32, activating the air valve 120 which in turn activates the assembly; 104 of piston and cylinder to lower the needle hh &amp; tá put it in the sample container 46 of the table 32 .'- 'After having obtained the interfacial air part 92, the sample 94 and the interfacial air part 96, the motor 112 of aspiration and distribution is activated and collects the quantity of sample programmed; the distributor motor 112 is then reversed, and the air valve is deactivated. 120, allowing the cylinder assembly 104 to raise the needle

62 From the sample a segment is returned or distributed again to the cup or test tube container, and the arm 66 is made to be seen above the test tubes 24. The aspiration time regulator 121 starts a time regulator 122, when the carriage 64 stops on top of a programmed test tube 24.

The distribution clutch 114 is put into action and a measured sample is supplied to the appropriate tube 24. The ambrague 76 of the carriage is put into action, and the carriage 64 moves past the next test tube of the program, to which it supplies another sample. This distribution process continues until all the programmed test tubes have received their sample »Next, lane 64 passes to the waste and wash cup 81. In this instance, the wash control 108 is started, and the needle 62 and the pipe 89 are washed and filled with clean water, in

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29.11.68 preparation for the next cycle.

With reference to figs. 17 to 28 inclusive, the form of work and operation contribution in a preferred form of the endless loop or belt conveyor 22 is preferably illustrated therein. Preferably the conveyor 22 comprises a plurality of individual rigid splints 123, each of which holds a transverse stack 28 of test tubes 24, the slats 123 being fixed at each end to a chain 124 by means of screws 126 (fig. 27), and the chains in turn supported by sprockets 128, 130, 132 and 134 supported on short shafts or stumps 136 and 133&gt; respectively. Rigid slats 123 are advantageous in that, although they allow the transponder to rotate around the wheels, they firmly hold the tubes in fixed positions.

Oon reference to fig. 28, the method of accurately introducing and aligning the tubes 24 in the individual slats 123 before connecting the latter to the chains 124 is illustrated in the best way possible. The slats 123 have a plurality of openings 140 of the appropriate size for receiving the tubes 24, and are placed on a support 142 having a base 144, the tubes 24 being introduced into the holes 140. There are some holes 146 made in the slats 123 and extending into the openings 140. Bn the holes 146 are inserted a retention pin 148, applied against an elastic protector 150 that protects the tubes 24 against breakage when the pin 148 is fixed Thus, the tubes 24 are all caught in identical vertical positions with respect to the sizes 23.

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blisters 123 and are firmly held so that they do not run or slide, then with respect to the slats 123 ai they are misaligned. The conveyor 22 moves, guides or advances periodically by a predetermined distance, such as that corresponding to a transverse row of tubes, taking the tubes, 24, from one position or position to the next · so that the tests or operations can be executed Chemicals with the programmed samples and in the appropriate position, moment and sequence. Accordingly-, 'adequate means are provided to periodically advance the conveyor 22 by a predetermined distance. Now bi as some of the other functions to be performed in lobes, 24, requires close cooperation with the tubes, these functions may require synchronism with the movement of the conveyor 22. For example, during the chemical testing process that is being carried out in the tubes 24, heat may be needed, and the preferred embodiment provides heating means 42 which- may include one or more baths or heating elements, to meet the requirements of heating of the chemical analysis. In addition, suitable drying means 152 are provided, which may include a plurality of individual electric heaters 154 connected to the mount 186 of drying heaters for introduction into the tubes 24, for drying after washing. As these components, during operation, cooperate with the tubes 24 in such a way as to prevent the advance movement or orientation of the conveyor 22, these component elements are synchronized with the movement of the conveyor 22

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in order to move the tubes 24 and take them from one position to another.

; * # ·

Thus, with reference to figs. 19-26 ineljid, ive, a pneumatic cylinder and piston assembly 156 is provided to supply the driving force for¹· Retract the heating means 4-2 and the removal means 152 from the pipes, advance the conveyor'2-2 by a certain magnitude and re-extend or remove the heating means 42 and the drying means 152 of the tubes to their functional position. With reference to fig. J.

ia 23 inclusive, a support structure 158 of a heating bath is provided, a structure that generally includes supports 160, 162, 164 and 166 connected to each other by means of connecting rods or articulation elements 16E f

170 and 172 and supported by axes 174 and 176.

To connecting rods 182 and I84 are connected respectively other connecting rods 178, 180 activating the drying means, and those in turn are connected to the mount 18é of the drying heater. Connecting rods 178 and 180 are connected by means of 175 pins to the connecting rod.

177 which extends and retracts mount 186 from the drying heater. The connecting rod 177 is connected with lost movement, by means of the pin 179 to the activating lever 204, and actuated by it.

There is a stop lobe or projection 188 connected to an arm 190 which is in turn connected to the axis 176, so that the stop 188 can release the chain drive 132 to allow the movement of the conveyor 22, and can be reapplied to chain wheel 132 to keep conveyor 22 blo30

29.11.68

<img file="ES358684A1_D0023.tif" />

left in position after the conveyor has advanced.

There is also a drive pin 192-connected to the pneumatic cylinder and piston assembly 156, to transmit the energy it receives from said assembly 156. An arm 194 provides support for the pin 192. A drive lever 196 is connected to the axis 136 which connects Ie, sprockets 128 and 130 providing the movement; Ό slower or forward of the conveyor 22 when moving, the lever 196 in a levógiro direction (left). A connected motion arm 198 is also provided connected.-between the drive pin 192 and the drive lever 196, arm that includes a notch 200 which, when retracted, is applied to a pin 202 of the lever 196, so that, in the race 'drive lever 196 turn left and then move on to conveyor 22. Now, before i

that the conveyor 22 can be advanced, in the preferred embodiment, it is necessary to retract the heating baths and the mount 186 of the drying heater, removing them from the tubes 24 so as not to hinder their movement.

There is also a lost movement lever 204, provided with a lost movement slot 206, connected to the axis 174 and receiving the drive pin 192 in the slot 206. Thus, the lever 204 will not move with the drive pin 192 to that the latter be applied to one end or the other of the lost movement slot 206. Now, the lost movement of the groove 206 is that of the arm 198, so that, in the retraction stroke of the assembly 156, the pin 192 is applied to the rear end 207 of the groove 206, retracting the arm

29.11.68

- 26 204 and rotating the axis 174, and also retracting the arm 177. The rotation of the axis 174 to the right (in the dextrophic direction) lowers the supports 160-166 of the bath-of *

<img file="ES358684A1_D0024.tif" />

heating, and thus the heating baths are separated from the tubes 24. The retraction of the arm 177 moves the connecting rods 178-184 and retracts the mount 186 from the drying heater, removing it from the tubes 24. In the motor stroke of the set 156, pin 192 and lever 198 move lever 196, thus advancing conveyor 22. Now, the drive pin 192 moves in the groove 206 of the lost movement, so that the supports I6o-l66 of the heating baths and the drying heating elements 154 will not move until the proximity of the pipes to

after the conveyor has advanced, at which point the drive pin 192 will be applied to the front or front end 209 of the lost movement slot 206 until the activating lever 204 is moved levogously by rotating the axis 174 and thus raising the supports 160-166 of the heating baths, and pushing the connecting rod 177 so as to output the individual drying heaters 154 to a row of pipes 24.

While, of course, the movement of the driving Caribbean of the piston and cylinder assembly 156 transmitted by means of the pin 192, the arm 198 and acting by means of the driving lever 196, can be used to control the travel limit of the conveyor 22 , a more positive application nail 208, rotatably supported on the shaft 106, can be arranged so that it is applied to the teeth of the chain wheel 134.

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0025.tif" />

The nail 208 can rotate around a pin 210 in the arm 212, in turn fixedly secured to the axis 176.

In the waiting position (first position), the nail 2Q8 'is kept out of application contact with the teeth of the chain wheel 134 by means of a spring 214 interposed between the nail 208 and the arm 212, causing the nail 208 bumps into a stop pin 216 located on arm 212. On the other hand, when the actuating cylinder 156 retracts, thus lowering the heating baths and retracting the drying heaters, the shaft 176 rotates bringing the end of the nail 208 to its application contact with the teeth of the chain wheel. 134 (fig. 24). The rotation of the shaft 176, by continuing to rotate, makes the end of the nail fully applied to the teeth of the track (fig. 25, third position) of chain transmission.

When the drive cylinder 156 moves in the race

J and driving the conveyor 22, the chain wheel 134 will rotate the nail to the fifth position, as best seen in fig. 25, and at this time the nail 208 will stumble upon the stopper pin 215 placed in the bija zo 212 and thus prevent the sprocket 134 from turning, and the conveyor 22 continues to advance.

With reference now to fig. 23, the stopping of the rotation of the sprockets and the conveyor 22, due to the blockage caused by the nail 208, causes the lost movement arm 198 to be released from the drive lever 196, when the notch 200 moves away from the pin 202, po efeeto its rounded rear edge 201, and return to the first position (fig. 22).

After stopping the conveyor 22 and orient 29.11.68

- 28 10 tado thus in a new position, the continuation of the movement of the driving stroke of the pneumatic assembly of acc: Note 156 causes the drive pin 192, which by then has moved along the lost movement slot 206, is applied to the end 209 of this slot 206 and moves the lost movement lever 204 by rotating the axis 174 and giving rise to that the supports 160-166 of the heating baths rise, the baths cooperating in contact with the tubes 24 in the new position to which it has advanced. The movement of the lever 204 simultaneously produces that of the arm. 17 * and connecting rods 178 and 180, which in turn move the slabs 182 and 184 bringing the drying heater block towards the new row of tubes 24 in the drying position f

whereby the individual heaters 154 are introduced into the tubes, executing the drying function, the rotation of the shaft 176 also rotates the arm 190 and the stopper pin 188 putting them in cooperative application contact with the teeth of the wheel 132 , thus keeping the conveyor 22 bioqueated. Also, the rotation of the shaft 176, when moving the saw 178, as best seen in fig. 25 Remove the locking nail 208 from the fifth position by taking it to the sixth, that is, the first waiting position (fig. 24).

Although the shape of the heating means 44 intended to heat the test tubes 24 at the temperatures necessary to carry out the chemical analysis will, of course, depend on the chemical tests that are carried out, in figs. 29, 30 31? 33 and 34 illustrate an appropriate way to meet the heating needs of er29.11.68

<img file="ES358684A1_D0026.tif" />

related sayings according to the programming in fig. 4. Thus:., A heating tray 217 is provided that supports a PBI electric heater (iodine bound with proteins) to obtain an approximate temperature of 2302C at positions 4 to 8 inclusive of the longitudinal and axial row in the one that performs the PBI test (fig. 4); a 220 maria bath for a temperature environment of 37^andC; and a water bath 222 to create an environment of 80SC temperature. The heater tray 217 is supported by the support structure 158 of heating baths (fig; 21), applied to sliding on axes 174 and 176 by means of sliding guides 224 and 226, and in application contact with rise and fall , on supports 160-166 as; before indicated.

With reference now to fig. 33, the PBI heater 218 may be an electric heater having a plurality of openings 228 to surround the test tubes 24 when the heater 218 is raised, and induces suitable electrical connections 230 to supply the necessary electrical energy for the Chaldean

The water in baths 220 and 222 is circulated by means of pumps 246 and 248 respectively, through appropriate heaters 242 and 244, located in tanks 243 and 245, respectively. Thanks to adequate heating control, the temperature is regulated in bathrooms 220 and 222. Water is supplied to baths 220 and 222 by means of a pipe 232, and of a branch of pipes 234 and 236, under the control of valves 238 jr 240, respectively. Excess water from baths 220 and 222 flows to overflowers 250 and 252, respectively

- 30 10 and drains into a sump 254 that has an outlet 256 through which the drain water is discarded.

With reference to fig. 5, as indicated above, as the conveyor advances, and the. chemical analysis, tubes 24 are inverted, thus emptying their contents, and are then washed in preparation for their return to the cycle. With reference now to fig. 32, wash tubes 258, 260 262 provided with atomizing nozzles 264 and 268 respectively are arranged, to direct a spray of sprayed cleaning water, in various positions, into the tubes 24 and above the slats 123, at object of washing and cleaning the pipes and the conveyor. The contents of the tubes 24 and the atomization stir are received in a drain sump 254 for disposal.

With reference now to fig. 34, a master time regulator 272 is provided as part of the control circuit which will be described in greater detail below which, after the tests have been programmed, controls the rotary table 32, as well as the control air valve 274 which in turn regulates the pneumatic cylinder and piston assembly 156 that moves the conveyor 22. After the last scheduled test, the master time regulator 272 is deactivated, which at that time activates the final wash time regulator 276, which will continue to advance and put into action the drive assembly 156 to advance the conveyor 22 for a predetermined number of cycles, to be sure that the tubes 24 are fully washed and cleaned.

With reference now to figs. 35 to 39, re29.11.68

- 31 10

<img file="ES358684A1_D0027.tif" />

it presents in the best way the reagent distribution or supply assembly 36, in which the various reagents necessary for the different chemical tests are arranged in containers 3θ of reagents, and are extracted. two of them by means of distribution units 40 calibrated, and supplied or distributed to the teaching tubes 24 in the appropriate positions or positions and in the adequate quantities to execute the convenient programmed tests. Preferably, the calibrated distributor units 40 include a glass cylinder 278, in which there is a Teflon piston 280 to extract a measured amount of reagent from the connected container 38 and introduce it into the cylinder by means of a first check valve 282, and supply the measured amount of reagent-, 'through a' second check valve 284, to a tube 24. It is convenient that the component elements of the reagent distributor assembly 36 be made of glass, Teflon or other inert material that resists prolonged use with the chemical reagents used. The check valve 282 is connected by means of a fluid passage '286' to one of the reagent vessels 38, and generally includes a compartment 288 having a valve seat 290 of polished glass, in communication with the passage 286 , and a valve element 292 of glass, preferably cylindrical. A second passage of fluid 294 leads from the compartment 288 into the cylinder 278, to aspirate reagents from a container 38 and put it into the cylinder 27θ, in the suction stroke of the piston 28o. At the exit edge of the compartment 288, a passage or bypass groove 296, of a length is provided

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0028.tif" />

greater than the width of the element 292, to ensure that the passage 294 remains open in the suction stroke of the piston 280, so that the reagent can be aspirated through the passage 286, through the compartment 288 and into the interior of the passage 294 and cylinder 278. On the other hand, when the piston 280 is in the distribution or supply stroke, the valve element 292 is obliged to make contact with the polished glass seat 290, with a positive seal to prevent any return of the reagent through the passage 286 to container 38; on the contrary, forcing it out through a passage 29θ and through the check valve 284 until it reaches a test tube 24. The structure of the check valve 284 is similar to that of the check valve 282. Thus, in the suction stroke of the piston 280 a measured amount of fluid circulates through the first check valve 282, while the second check valve retention 284 is closed. In the piston distribution stroke 28o, the first check valve 282 is closed and the second check valve 284 is opened, allowing the passage of the fluid to be distributed, by means of the fluid passage 298, to a reaction tube 24.

Teflon piston 280 includes first and second tabs 300 and 302, which maintain a tight seal with the glass cylinder 278. The collar 303 serves to align the piston 280 with its rod 304 in the cylinder 278. As best seen in fig. 37, there is a T-slot 306 arranged at the end of the piston rod 304 for connection to an activator assembly, which slot is intended to receive a T-head 308 (fig. 36). The

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0029.tif" />

T slot 306, therefore, provides a loose fitting connection with the head 308 in T in a transverse direction, so that in the case that the head 308 in T is not well aligned with the piston rod 304, there will be in the connecting a sufficient transverse clearance so that the piston 280 remains aligned axially in the cylinder 278, and does not grip the cylinder 278 or break the glass cylinder 278 because of poor alignment, when the piston moves inside it with a reciprocating motion.

With reference now to fig. 36, the source of the driving force for reciprocating the piston 280 in the cylinder 278 to distribute the reagent, pq._e being a pneumatic cylinder and piston assembly 310 in which an air netrada 312 directs air to one of the plungers of a piston 314 to move the rod 316 and, therefore, the T head 308 connected to the piston rod 304,

A spring 31θ is provided that acts between a stop 320 and the piston 314, to move the piston 314 in the direction of the aspiration. An exit orifice 322 is also provided to limit the speed or expense of air-in-line output. suction stroke, in order to limit the suction speed for the calibrated distributor unit 40, so as not to have an adverse effect on the reagent, nor to damage the unit. An electrically operated valve 324 is also provided for activation of the distribution unit 40 by air intake to the lower side of the piston 314. the distance traveled by the rod 316 and therefore the piston 280 (fig. 37) in the distribution stroke or supply can be adjusted by means of a sleeve 328 blocked by a nut 330 in an adjusted position to limit the can

29.11.68

<img file="ES358684A1_D0030.tif" />

The fluid is sucked into the cylinder 278 and supplied from it. Thus, by means of a suitable adjustment of the sleeve 328, the stroke of the piston 280 and, therefore, the amount of reagent measured can be regulated exactly.

With reference now to fig. 35, an outlet pipe 332 is connected to each of the calibrated reagent dispensing units 40, to receive the measured amount of reagent and supply it to a test tube 24. With reference to figs. 38 and 39, there is a support rod 334 of distribution pipe, supported by an adjustable support 336 to position the bar 334 on a transverse row 28 of reaction tubes 24. The bar 334 includes a plurality of openings 338, each of which is directed to the top of a test tube 24 located below, to support the outlet end of the distribution pipe 332. As best seen in FIG. . 39, it is preferred that the openings 338 form an angle with the longitudinal axis of the tubes 24, so that the incoming reagent is directed to a tube 24 at an angle thereto adjacent to the top of the curved bottom of the tube 24, creating a swirling action when the reagent is supplied or distributed to the tube, which gives the mixture a sufficient agitation so that the reagent is intimately mixed with the sample contained in the tube, thereby eliminating the need to stir or shake the mixture further, to ensure the desired chemical reaction. In general, along the top of the transverse rows of test tubes 24 a plurality of said support bars 334 are arranged, according to the number and the

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0031.tif" />

cough in which the reagents are to be supplied, which depends on the chemical tests that are being carried out by means of the apparatus.

Gomo is indicated in figs. 4 and 5, after distributing the sample to the tubes 24, adding the reagents in the appropriate positions during the test, and properly heated, the tubes are advanced by increments of orientation to a reading post, in which they are analyzed the test results, by means of a set. reader 24 such as an optical reader. .

With reference now to figs. 40 to 55, the reading set 44 is shown in detail, and in particular in figs. 40 to 42, in which a plurality of cuvettes 340, preferably optically matched, are dispensed -one for each of the longitudinal rows; 26, located above the reaction or test tubes 24 in the reading position, and transversely aligned and supported by a mobile support or reading block 342, supported in turn by guides 344 at each end and which is connected to a piston rod 346 (figs. 40 and 42) 'connected to a pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly 348 ε in order to raise and lower the reading block 342 to lower the cuvettes 340 into the tubes 24, cor. whereby the fluid contained in the tubes 24 can be aspirated into the cuvettes, optically analyzed and again allowed to drain into the tubes 24; after which the piston and cylinder assembly 348 raises the reading support block 342 out of the tubes 24, so that the conveyor 22 can be advanced, and taken to the reading post and analyzed another set of tube

29.11.68

<img file="ES358684A1_D0032.tif" />

24.

After the pneumatic piston cylinder assembly 348 lowers the support or reading block 34, and the lower ends of the cuvettes 340, which preferably include an elongated passage 341, inserted into the tubes 24, a pneumatic piston assembly is activated and cylinder 349 filling and ejection actuator (figs. 41,

43, 45 and 54), connected by means of the piston rod 352 to a movable rod 350 held at each end by sliding rods 354 and 356. The activation rod 350 is connected to a plurality of individually arranged syringe plunger 358, one for each cuvette 340, slidable in a cylinder 360 and with a pipe 362 that connects each cylinder 360 to one of the cuvettes 340. In addition, when the piston and cylinder assembly 349 of filling and ejection in the suction stroke is activated, the activation rods and all the piston rods 352 retract, dragging all the pistons 358 back and creating an aspiration in the pipes 362 and in each of the cuvettes 340 until the liquid from the tubes 24 is passed to the cuvettes. Between the passage 341 and the body of the cuvettes 340, a sinuous passage 343 is provided, in order to slow the flow of fluid into the chamber and prevent the aspiration of fluid into the pipe 362.

With reference now to fig. 44, it should be noted that when the plunger 358 of the syringe retracts in the syringe barrel 360, the seal of the plunger does not pass to the other side of a drain port 364 made in the cylinder wall.

<img file="ES358684A1_D0033.tif" />

While the pistons 358 as a whole are connected to the activation bar 350, all syringe cylinders 360 are connected to a drain bar 366 connected to a piston rod 368 which in turn is attached to a piston assembly and drain cylinder 370.

The drain bar 366 is supported on mobile support rods 372, with sliding movement therein.

After the optical reading of the liquids contained in the cuvettes 340 is completed, the pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly is activated to raise the reading block 342 by removing it from the test tubes and bringing it to its primitive position, illustrated in figs. 40 and 41. It is then desired to drain or drain the cuvettes 340, by emptying them of the liquid they contain, and for this purpose the pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly 370 is put into action

I drain, as best illustrated in fig. 45, whereby the drain bar 366 moves away from the plungers; syringe 358 and therefore, the syringe cylinders 360 move in such a way that the air port 364 passes to the other side of the plunger 358. The port of air 364 moves, as best indicated in fig. 46, passing to the other 1st of the piston 358 to the indicated position with broken line and thus allowing the entry of air into the syringe dro.de 360 ​​cylinder, which cancels or discharges the aspiration in the pipes 362 and allows the contained liquid in the drains 340 drain back to the test tubes 2

In order to drain or empty the cuvettes even more

340, the pneumatic piston and cylinder 349 filling and ejection assembly is activated to move the rod

29.11.68

- 38 10 ta tin

<img file="ES358684A1_D0034.tif" />

activation 350 and thus push back the plungers 358 by putting them back into the syringe cylinders 350, and giving an impulse with air through the pipes 362 and the cuvettes 340 as the piston 358 passes in front of the air port 364 , to contribute to a greater emptying or drainage of reading tubes 340. In addition, another air jet can be provided to further deplete the cuvettes when the piston tire and drain cylinder assembly 370 is activated to return the drain bar 366 to its original position, thereby causing the syringe cylinders 360 move towards syringe plunger 358, creating an additional air jet.

As best seen in fig. 54, a readout time regulator 374 is provided connected to the valves of

I air 376, 378 and 380, respectively, to adequately activate and invert the rheumatic plunger and cylinder assemblies 348, 349 and the drain assembly 370 by successively lowering the cuvettes 340 until they are inserted into the test tubes 24, sucking the shows inside the cuvettes 340 and, after ·: · the reading has been carried out, raising the reading cuvettes 340, emptying them of fluid and expelling the rest of the fluid contained therein by means of air jets, so that the reading set is in condition for the next cycle.

As mentioned before, it is preferable to carry out the reading tests optically, and in fig. 55 one of these systems is schematically illustrated, in which there is a light source, such as an exciter lamp 377, which directs the light through a lens 379, ε through a test tube or sample inserted into a cuvette 340,

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- 39 10

<img file="ES358684A1_D0035.tif" />

through a 3θ1 filter and a light measuring means, such as a 3θ2 photovoltaic cell; while the value of the light intensity, measured by the photoelectric cell 382 and which in turn is measured by the property being tested, is transmitted by a circuit 384 of electrical calibration control to a reading device such as a recording apparatus 386. The physical structure of the reading block 342 is best seen in figs. 47 to 52 inclusive, in which the excitation lamp 377 provides a source of light supply through the. lens 379, which is preferably phosphate glass, which performs not only the function of collimation, or of directing light rays from lamps 377 in parallel, but also of absorbing heat, preventing the heat of the lamps affect the optical test of the sample. Chromed reflectors 388 are also provided behind the exciter lamp 377, to direct the light through the lenses 379 and through a window 390 until it crosses the reading cuvette 340, which preferably includes a window 392, being the rest of the amber colored bucket to suppress the light for the site. After passing the light through the sample contained in the cuvettes 340, the light passes through the filter 381 that suppresses the unwanted light and lets only the light spectrum being measured to the fo tocell.

It is preferable that the filter 381 be placed between the cuvette 340 and the photocell 382, ​​to prevent the heat from the lamp 377 from adversely affecting the filter 381.

Now well, as said before, it is also coin

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- 40 10

<img file="ES358684A1_D0036.tif" />

It is convenient to control the thermal environment in which the reading tests are carried out, and since the excited lamps 377 radiate a large amount of heat, the reading block, as indicated in figs. 47, 48, 49, 50 and 51, includes water passages 393 to be able to pass through water intended to cool block 342. In addition, in order to enable additional cooling for the exciter lamps 377, the reading block 342 may include air chamber partitions 394 and 396 (figs. 47 and 52) each of which includes a plurality of vents 39θ to allow heat to escape from lamps 377 Now, vents 398 of member 394 are aligned or offset from vents 39θ of member 396, thus allowing The escape of heat, but showing the possibility of admission of parasitic light into the lamp compartment.

With reference now to fig. 53, an electrical scheme of the reading system is seen therein, which includes parts of the control systems of figs. 54 and 55. As will be described in detail below, there is a panel of program buttons 399 eu which are programmed for the various tests to be carried out by means of the apparatus, the information being transmitted to a calculator 400. A function activating button 402 is pressed to start the main time regulator 272 which controls the various functions in synchronism. At the appropriate point in the duty cycle, the reading time regulator 374 (fig. 54) puts the pneumatic cylinders 348 of the reading block into action, to place the cuvettes 340 in the test tubes 24. The samples of

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- 41 10

<img file="ES358684A1_D0037.tif" />

The tests are then aspirated and introduced into the reading tubes 340 by means of the pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly 349. During the reading cycle, each of the exciter lamps 377 directs a beam of light through a cuvette 340 to a photocell 382 for each row] .on gitudinal tubes 24. Each exciter lamp 377 has a lamp fault relay 404, connected to an alarm system 406 that gives an acoustic signal in the event that one of the exciter lamps 377 fails.

The switch 41Ό of the recorder's time regulator is then activated, beginning its sequential scanning and going through each of the 'tests programmed by the device by connecting the subsequent output of each photocell to the recorder's pen 3θ6, a signal that is set, while the registration paper advances, the signal being registered on the paper in such a way that it indicates the concentration of the unknown ei. The solution submitted to the analysis. During the scanning procedure, the lamps 458 indicative of the test being recorded are lit, the counters 459 will receive. pulses and count in sequence each test that is being registered, and the reset of the programmed relays 461 takes place. Just before the expiration cycle is finished, a pulse is sent to the reading time regulator 374 so that it can complete its final phase of the reading cycle, the controls of fig. 54 to empty the cuvettes 340 by removing the sample tested, and remove them from the tubes 24 in preparation for the next cycle.

In addition, a plurality of elec circuits are provided.

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0038.tif" />

control and calibration triads 384, each connected to a photocell 382. As part of each electrical control circuit 384, a control potentiometer 385 and a reference potentiometer 387 may be arranged to control and calibrate the output of each 3θ2 photocell according to a known sample being tested. Used together these two potentiometers 385 and 387 make it possible for the information transmitted to a reading device such as a recorder 386 to be read directly in the desired measured units, despite any individual differences in the bucket ^, photocells, filters, etc. .

With reference to figs. 14 and 15, there is a plug 114 connected to the engine 112 so that it gives a two-way transmission of driving force for the pick-up and distribution device 34. Referring now to figs. 56 to 59 a more detailed description of the structure and operation of clutch 114 can be better appreciated.

The clutch 114 is to have a two-way transmission between the drive or drive shaft 422 and the driven shaft 420. In a conventional type clutch, the spindle shaft 420 is connected in the housing 421 to a cam member 424 which it has cam surfaces 426 intended to be applied to bearings 428 of the clutch and have them applied to a housing envelope 430 of the driven member, connected to the driving shaft 422. Now, this usual clutch will only work in a single direction of rotation of the drive shaft 422, which is determined by the direction springs 432 connected between the driven envelope 421 and the cam member

29-11.68

- 43 til 111 «

<img file="ES358684A1_D0039.tif" />

424 Envelope 421 provides a forward pin 442 or forward orientation.

To the usual clutch is added a reversing nail 434 with spring loaded, rotatably mounted on the pin 440 on the envelope 430 and forced to go non-rigidly against a stop pin 436 and an inverter pin 438.

When the driving shaft 422 is turned to the left (levogyrous direction 423), the driven shaft or shaft 420 rotates in the usual way, as the springs are contracted-and applied to the inner bearings 428 of the clutch until they reach a stop means' outside, such as a solenoid switch 444 provided with an activation lever 446 which, when activated in its place, stops the driven shaft per application of the forward feed pin 442, so that it extends the springs 432 and releases the inner bearings 428. The driving shaft 422 continues to rotate, and the spring loaded nail 434 jumps to the other side of the past inverter 438 so that the driven shaft 420 is disconnected, and will only rotate when the solenoid switch 444 and the lever 446 release the forward pin 442 in a straight direction.

Whenever the motor or driver shaft 422 is moved in the dextrophic direction 425, the driven shaft 420 also starts to turn to the right as soon as the nail 434 trips or cooperates in contact with the inverter pin 438. Thus, the clutch 114 of Two directions can be activated simply in one direction or another of the rotation of the driving shaft.

With reference now to figs. 6 and 6A, is repressed29.11.68

- 44 10

<img file="ES358684A1_D0040.tif" />

they sit in them in the best way the electrical power circuits and the circuit breaker box. Circuit breaker box 445, which is also shown in fig. 1, has several designated individual circuit breakers, as can be seen, by the corresponding number enclosed in the circle that is also represented in fig. 6. The figures enclosed in circles indicate circuit breakers of the type of button, that jump or appear when an overload occurs, putting into action an acoustic alarm by means of which the operator can quickly locate the fault, by inspecting the control panel. Thus, an energy input is provided at 447, which goes to a conventional magnetic type contactor 448. Circuit 1 is the power supply to the various command or control circuits, of the f

that branch 2 is a 115 volt alternating current circuit, circuit 3 is a 48 volt direct current supply, circuit 4 is supplied to an air compressor 450 (figs. two and 3) which supplies air ρεra various machine functions, circuit 5 is for the various bath heaters 218, 2'42 and 244, circuit 6 goes to drying heaters 154, circuit 7 is for calculator 400, circuit 8 goes to the endless belt conveyor 22, circuit 9 is for the sample distributor 30, circuit 10 goes to the tube washing and general washing valves, circuit 11 is for the drain time regulator and the drain motor (not shown), circuit 12 is for reagent distribution solenoids 324, circuit 13 goes to reading equipment 44 and photocells 3θ2, the circuit 14 to recorder 386 and circuit 15 is the power

29.11.68

- 45 10 to 12 volt direct current for 404 relays of lamp lamps and for exciter lamps 377 ·

Pushbutton panel 399 (fig. 1) is best seen in figs. 60 to 62 inclusive, and includes a plurality of vertical rows 452 of indicator lights and push buttons each row corresponding to a transverse row 28 of tubes 24; and assuming that there are ten longitudinal rows 26 of sixty tubes, each vertical row 452 of pushbuttons will include ten pushbuttons, one for each row, which when pressed indicate that the test V'in that longitudinal row is programmed, for a particular particular sample . In addition to the ten individual discretionary gram-pin push-buttons, each row includes a button 454. designated P, which indicates that with said sample a profile of all of the ten tests must be made, and also includes a release button 456 ( R) for release j

or release all of the buttons pressed in said particular row 452, in case of error or in the case of which it is desired to modify or change the programmed tests. In addition, lights 460 numbering posts are provided, and lights: indicates) 458 to indicate the status of the tests in said particular row 452. The buttons on panel 399 are connected to a fixed section or stationary frame 462 of the calculator 400. Panel 399, in the indicated example, has sixty buttons in the horizontal rows, whereby sixty samples can be programmed for the various tests programmed in the apparatus.

The calculator 400 looks better in figs. 64 to inclusive, and includes a sweep section 464 connected to a spindle drive 466, which in turn is connected to

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- 46 10

<img file="ES358684A1_D0041.tif" />

a sweep box clutch 468 driven by a motor 470 to control the relative position of the movable section 464 relative to a fixed section 462. The motor 470 of the active scan frame and advances the scan frame 464 in synchronism with respect to the advance of the conveyor 22 *, so that the information entered in the programmed! · 399 is properly transmitted to the appropriate function controls, with which then the scan box then transmits the information, for example, about the tests to be carried out, the reading to be activated (which also depends on the test to be performed), the quantity of sample material that the collection and distribution apparatus 34 has to collect (which also depends on the number of tests to be performed with each sample), and supplies the appropriate reagents, which also depends on the tests that have been programmed. For example, stationary frame 462 corresponds and is electrically connected to panel 399. That is, frame 462 will include ten rows of sixty terminals or pins 466 connected to corresponding push buttons of panel 399. Now, the scan frame 464 will need a number of pin terminals 465 corresponding to the number of test tube positions in the conveyor (twenty in the given example) in which discretionary functions can be programmed and executed. ^!Yes, as the scan frame 464 moves ahead of the stationary frame 462, its pins or pins 465, which preferably have a spring load, as illustrated in fig. 66, move against terminals 463 and collect the programmed information, transmitting it to the various topics that execute the different stages of the tests

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- 47 I

<img file="ES358684A1_D0042.tif" />

micos in the twenty stations or jobs (fig.

4). As the sample being tested runs twenty possible jobs on the conveyor belt 22, from the sample supply to the sample reading, the. sweep box 464 sends signals, to the various systems, that a function will be performed in a given cycle in_: particular. As indicated above, the information sent from the scan box includes data on: if more samples have been programmed; in which regional rows will samples be distributed or supplied; which reagents are to be added in a given position; and they operate indicator lights in program table 399 to indicate which samples are in progress, what tests are to be read and when the reading function is to be carried out. Thus, the calculator 400 will repeat each machine cycle until it detects or discovers that there is no more programming.

i

At this time, the sweep frame 464 will return to the zero position, the main time regulator 272 will stop running and the apparatus will be placed under the control of the. regu20 lador of final wash times 276, studied in relation to fig. 3. 4.

Now, in addition to the sixty rows of contact 463, as the apparatus 20 is a continuous cyclic work apparatus and since the frames are physically constructed in a linear fashion, the stationary frame 462 will include another twenty rows of contacts 463 electrically bridged with the twenty first rows of contacts of the stationary frame 462, whereby the linear panel can operate rotary switch pad; even though, naturally, a rotary frame may be used instead of tables 462 and 464,

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0043.tif" />

collecting the programmed information in the first twenty rows of buttons 463 when the sweep box 464 passes through the first contacts. During operation, the first position of the sweep frame 464 will advance from the zero position to the eighty position of the stationary frame; then inverter 416 of the control panel will come into action. swept, returning it to the eleventh position on the stationary frame, and will continue to advance between the eighty position and the twenty-one position until the programming ceases. The sweep frame 464 will then return to the zero position. The reagent selection table 113 is illustrated in fig. 64, where interconnection bridges or cables are provided to activate the various reagent solenoids 324 in f

the appropriate position of the conveyor. In addition, the sweep box transmits information to the read time regulator, to control the reading and recording functions. The reagent selection table 113 includes rows 119 of receptacles connected to the electric solenoids 324, and for the tests being programmed in the apparatus of fig. 2 needs sixteen reagents and solenoids, so sixteen receptacles in rows 119 are required. In addition, as seventeen possible tube positions are foreseen for each test, in which reagents can be distributed, reagent selection table 113 includes seventeen rows 121a of ten receptacles, in connection with the reagent distribution pins in the reagent. sweep box 464. Therefore, to arrange and adjust the apparatus, several jumper cables 125 are connected, of which the

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0044.tif" />

whole, from the reactive solenoid receptacles}) of rows 119a. to the appropriate reagent station receptacle of rows 121a, so that upon reaching the particular scan 464 at that particular position the appropriate reagent solenoid is activated to supply that reagent to the appropriate test tube 24.

With reference again to fig. 6, push buttons 472, 4-74 and 402 are arranged to start and stop the apparatus 20. Button 472 is stop or disconnect, to stop the apparatus in its entirety. 'The -' button 474 is waiting, and is activated before the start button 'March 402 is operated. The standby button 474 / when activated, activates the magnetic counter 448, which supplies power to circuits 1 to 15 and leaves the device ready to operate, so that the simple activation of the operating button 402 put the i into action

main time regulator 272, which in turn starts automatic chemical analysis.

With reference now to fig. 63, there is shown a functional or batch electrical scheme of the functional polyols of the present invention. As previously indicated, the desired tests to be carried out are programmed in table 399 of program buttons, thus obtaining an acetic discretionary control of the chemical tests to be performed with each sample. A lso, the samples were classified into the sample table 32, the sample containers 46 and poqe action button waiting 474 (Fig.-6) to carry the various baths proper heating temperature. Activation of the start or operation button

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0045.tif" />

402 (fig. 6) activates the main time regulator 272, which transmits a signal to the programmed frame 399 and to the calculator that includes the stationary frame 462 and the mobile scan frame 464.

From the scan frame 464, information is sent to the sample selection control 115 for dinner. The selection control 115 transmits a signal to the valve 70 of the carriage arm and activates the suction time regulator 118, by means of the carriage control 116. In addition, the 115 selection of 'after' signals transmits signals to a distribution control 111, to the distribution time regulator 122, to the aspiration time regulator 118 and to the control 116 of the carriage. From the control 116 of the car a signal is sent to the embrs f

gue 76 of the carriage, to activate the motor 72 of the carriage (fig. 16) and move the collection and distribution needle 62 above the collection point of the test table 32. As described in greater detail in relation to Figure 16, the needle 62 enters the cup 46 and aspirates the programmed sample quantity; the timing regulator 122 of the distribution reverses the distributor clutch 114; the needle is raised; a segment of the sample or specimen is reintroduced into the sample cup 46; the arm 66 of the car moves back over the row of test tubes 24; and the distribution time regulator 122 stops at each of the longitudinal rows 26 of programmed tubes and distributes a serum sample to them.

In addition, scan frame 464 transmits information to reagent selection chart 113, to activate reagent solenoid valves 324 and deliver

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<img file="ES358684A1_D0046.tif" />

a measured amount of the appropriate reagent at the appropriate cycle position.

The sweep box 464, which receives the information¹· Ment. programmed from the stationary frame 462, activates the reading time regulator 374, which controls the rise and fall of the reading block 342, to aspirate the filling and ejection assembly 349 thereof and return it £. eject after the completion of the reading essays. The read time regulator 374 also controls the recorder time regulator 410, which in turn.¹· Plora each one of the programmed tests and records them in the register 386.

During each cycle, the main regulator. Of times 272 sends signals to the belt conveyor '22, to which it is advanced, and gives signals for the transmission of the programmed information to the function circuits and for the start of the functions; It gives deprogramming signals. or deactivation of the control push buttons when each individually programmed sample is finished, activates an advance control 414 to advance; é- 'sweep box to the programmed signals for the next row of programmed tests; sends signal to the 2 * / tube wash set, to wash the drained or emptied tubes; and also sends signal to the test tube table 32, which advances.

Naturally, it is important that the belt conveyor 22, the rotary table 32 of the specimen advance and the sweep box 464 are synchronized in relative position at all times, to be sure that 4® takes the appropriate sample from the table sample preview

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and it is supplied to the corresponding transverse row of tubes of the conveyor 22, and that the work functions are in synchronism.

Thus, with reference to fig. 67, a synchronization switch 479 can be placed to measure the position advanced by the conveyor 22 moved, for example, by an endless belt transmission 481 connected to one of the chain sprockets of the conveyor 22 "Thus, to the advancing the conveyor in a row of tubes the synchronism switch 479 is rotated to indicate the position of the conveyor 22. Similarly, another synchronization switch 480 (two-layer cookie switch) connected to the rotary table 32 is set to determine the rotation position of the f

table. And the synchronization switches 479 and 480 are connected in series through the. calculator 400 that covers the scan frame 464, to be sure that the feed table 32, the conveyor 22, and the stationary frames 462 and scan 464 are in synchronism, before continuing with the sequence of successive immediate tests .

This invention, therefore, lends itself well to carrying out the objects and achieving the above-mentioned purposes and advantages, as well as others that are in-r

I inheritors. Although a description of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention has been given, for purely illustrative purposes, numerous changes and variants in the details of the construction and arrangement of the parts, including all of them, will be made clearer. within the spirit of the invention

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and of the purposes of the following claims.

The present application that corresponds to the one filed in the United States of America, dated June 14, 1,968, under number 737.065, benefits from Article 51 of the current Industrial Property Statute.