Automatic point source biological agent detection system

Abstract

This invention is directed to a method and apparatus using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology for automatically collecting air samples and identifying biological agents in the air sample. A fully automated system is provided that is capable of detecting transient events such as bacillus anthracis in a piece of mail being processed on high-speed mail processing equipment. The system includes apparatus for implementing the following features: particle collection and pre-separation using a collection hood and dry cyclone passive filtration system; continuous particle collection into a liquid sample; automated fluid transfer to a PCR analysis cartridge at pre-scheduled times; automated cartridge handling and transfer to PCR bio-agent identification apparatus for detecting a bio-agent in a piece of mail; automatic retesting of the liquid sample upon various error conditions; automatic confirmation testing upon preliminary positive results; automated fluid transfer to archive containers at the completion of analysis; and, automated notification/reporting system to alert designated personnel/organizations upon the occurance of selected events such as the presence of bacillus antracis.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.