US 6,890,484 B2 · In line test device and methods of use

Abstract

The present invention recognizes that it can be desirable to have a sample receiving chamber integral to or engageable with a test platform, such as a test platform that includes a test strip. The sample receiving chamber is preferably separate or separable from the test platform, but that need not be the case. Preferably, a fluid flow actuating device or structure, such as a valve separates the sample receiving chamber from the test platform. The present invention provides such a device and methods of use. A first aspect of the present invention is a test device that includes a sample receiving chamber and a test platform that preferably includes a test element. The sample receiving chamber preferably engages the test platform and is optionally separable therefrom. A second aspect of the present invention is a method of detecting an analyte in a sample, including: providing a sample, contacting the sample with a test device and detecting the analyte in the sample. The test device preferably includes a sample receiving chamber and a test platform that includes a test element. Preferably, the sample receiving chamber engages the test platform and optionally the sample receiving chamber is separable from the test platform.

Claims47

Dependent claims

A test device, comprising:

a) a sample receiving chamber having an open proximal end and a distal end;
said sample receiving chamber comprising a valve structure, said valve structure comprising, in combination, a male outlet port and a female receptor outlet port which engage one another to control fluid communication between the sample receiving chamber and a test platform;
b) a test platform that comprises a test element;
wherein a sample can be added to said sample receiving chamber through said open proximal end;
wherein said distal end of said sample receiving chamber engages said test platform;
wherein said sample receiving chamber is separable from said test platform;
wherein said sample receiving chamber, when separate from said test platform and containing a fluid, can engage said test platform and release said fluid into said test platform through said distal end such that said fluid contacts said test element;
and
wherein at least a portion of said sample can be transferred from said sample receiving chamber to said test platform by approximately or substantially aligning said male insert outlet port and said female receptor outlet port to open said valve structure.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

In line test device and methods of use

Life of this patent

In line test device and methods of use

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims47