Optical detection system, a cartridge therefor and a reader therefor

Abstract

A optical detection system for used as a bio sensor is disclosed, comprising a card or cartridge and a reader. The cartridge comprises at least a detection chamber and an optical detector, and the reader includes means to urge a fluid into the detection chamber to initiate the analysis. The optical coupling may be enhanced by including optical elements in the card; conversely the system may be simplified by reducing or eliminating the number of moving parts in the card. In embodiments, additional elements such as a light source which may be an LED, flow restrictors or mixers, and electronic elements such as NFC functionality, may be included on the card. The card may be compatible with smart-cards.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.