Automated sample preparation methods and devices
OwnerDuncan Whitney, Anthony P. Shuber +1inventors
InventorsDuncan Whitney, Anthony P. Shuber, James Kent Moore
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Abstract
The invention provides methods and apparatus for automated sample processing. The invention comprises introducing a sample into a multistep dilution procedure at a step that is chosen based on the concentration of target analyte in the sample.
Claims33
A method for normalizing a sample, the method comprising the steps of:
- determining an initial concentration of an analyte in each of a plurality of samples;
- introducing a portion of each sample on an apparatus such that the portion of each sample occupies a unique position on the apparatus related to the analyte's initial concentration;
- and,
- diluting the plurality of samples such that the plurality of samples are normalized with respect to analyte concentration.
A computer programmable method for the automation of sample dilution, the method comprising the steps of:
- inputting data corresponding to a programmed algorithm for automated dilution of a sample along a series of dilution points in a pathway;
- inputting data corresponding to a pre-determined initial concentration of at least one sample;
- determining an appropriate entry point for introducing the sample along the series of dilution points in the pathway;
- wherein the appropriate entry point is determined by the initial concentration of the sample;
- and,
- sending instructions to an automated device capable of diluting the sample along the series of dilution points in the pathway.
A method for automating sample dilution, the method comprising the step of introducing a sample into an automated dilution procedure involving a plurality of dilution steps, wherein the sample is introduced at a dilution step that is determined by the sample concentration.
A method for normalizing a sample, the method comprising the steps of:
- providing a pre-determined series of dilution stages in a pathway;
- determining an initial concentration of an analyte in a sample;
- introducing a portion of the sample in a unique position on an apparatus, wherein the unique position is determined by the initial concentration of the analyte;
- and,
- diluting the sample such that the final concentration of the analyte in the sample is normalized.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.