Method and apparatus for storing and mixing a plurality of fluids and body fluid sampling cartridge using same

Abstract

A mixing device includes a plurality of elongated ampules mounted on a rotatable support with the longitudinal axis of each ampule inclined inwardly toward the rotational axis of the rotatable support. When the mixing device rotates about the rotational support, centrifugal force causes fluid in each ampule to move toward the end farthest away from the rotatable support. A bubble in each ampule then moves toward the opposite end. In one embodiment, the rotational support is inclined so that the end of each ampule positioned farthest from the rotational support is positioned sufficiently above the other end so that the bubble rises to the end farther from the support in at least one position as the support rotates. As a result, a bubble in each ampule moves back and forth between the ends of the ampule as the rotatable support rotates to mix respective fluids in the ampules. In another embodiment, the ampules are pivotably mounted on the elongated support so that opposite ends are alternately positioned farthest from the support, thereby causing a bubble to move back and forth in each ampule. A chamber for collecting a blood sampling may be positioned on the rotatable support for subsequent analysis by an analysis machine that uses the fluids in the ampules for calibrating and washing purposes.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.