Patent Application
20080094804
The present invention generally relates to cartridges and sensor-dispensing instruments and, more particularly, to cartridges with a plurality of test sensors that is used in analyzing, for example, blood glucose or other analytes contained therein.
The quantitative determination of analytes in body fluids is of great importance in the diagnoses and maintenance of certain physiological abnormalities. For example, lactate, cholesterol and bilirubin should be monitored in certain individuals. In particular, determining glucose in body fluids is important to diabetic individuals who must frequently check the glucose level in their body fluids to regulate the glucose intake in their diets. While the remainder of the disclosure herein will be directed towards determining glucose, it is to be understood that the present invention may be used for determining other analytes on selection of an appropriate enzyme.
The results of such tests can be used to determine what, if any, insulin or other medication needs to be administered. In one type of blood-glucose testing system, sensors are used to test a sample of blood.
A test sensor contains biosensing or reagent material that will react with blood glucose. The testing end of the sensor is adapted to be placed into the fluid being tested, for example, blood that has accumulated on a person's finger after the finger has been pricked. The fluid is drawn into a capillary channel that extends in the sensor from the testing end to the reagent material by capillary action so that a sufficient amount of fluid to be tested is drawn into the sensor. The fluid then chemically reacts with the reagent material in the sensor resulting in an electrical signal indicative of the glucose level in the fluid being tested is supplied to contact areas located near the rear or contact end of the sensor.
Such a test sensor is often sensitive to the effects of ambient humidity. One way to reduce or eliminate the effects of ambient humidity is to individually package each of the sensors with desiccant. Such a method has a drawback of requiring the unpacking of a strip before each use. Thus, it would be desirable to have a cartridge that contains a plurality of test sensors that would not require unpacking each strip before using. Also, for the convenience and ease of use, it would also be desirable to have a simple mechanism to feed the test sensors, one at a time, for testing by the user. This provides ease of use to normal users and is especially important for those users who may have some physical limitations. It would also be desirable to reliably seal the test sensors within the cartridge.
According to one embodiment, a cartridge is adapted to be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument. The cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a pusher assembly. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The pusher assembly is adapted to push one of the plurality of test sensors from the cartridge. The pusher assembly includes a ferromagnetic material or a magnet.
According to one embodiment, a sensor-dispensing instrument comprises a cartridge, an instrument housing, a lid and a slider. The cartridge includes a cartridge housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a pusher assembly. The cartridge housing forms at least one cartridge opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the cartridge housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The pusher assembly is adapted to push one of the plurality of test sensors from the cartridge. The pusher assembly includes a ferromagnetic material or a magnet. The instrument housing forms a dispensing outlet and is adapted to receive the cartridge. The lid is moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals at least one of the dispensing outlet and the cartridge opening in the closed position. The slider comprises a ferromagnetic material or a magnet. The slider is adapted to be magnetically coupled to the pusher assembly of the cartridge. The slider is adapted to slide from a first position to a second position. During the movement of the slider from the first position to the second position, the pusher assembly contacts one of the plurality of test sensors and pushes it at least partially through the dispensing opening. At least the pusher assembly or the slider comprises a magnet.
According to one embodiment, a lid mechanism is adapted to be used in a cartridge or a sensor-dispensing instrument that includes a plurality of test sensors to assist in determining the concentration of at least one analyte. The lid mechanism comprises a lid and a plurality of retainer tabs. The lid is adapted to slide between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals an opening in the closed position. The plurality of retainer tabs to assist in maintaining pressure on the lid in forming a seal.
According to another embodiment, a cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, a test-sensor extractor and a lid. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The test-sensor extractor is adapted to move between a first position and a second position. The lid is mechanically linked to the test-sensor extractor. The lid is moveable being a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position. During the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the test-sensor extractor moves from the first position to the second position and extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
According to another embodiment, a cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a first mechanical mechanism, a second mechanical mechanism, a test-sensor extractor, and a lid. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The first mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The second mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a second direction. The second direction is located generally perpendicular to the first direction. The test-sensor extractor is moveable between a first position and a second position via the second mechanical mechanism. The lid is moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position. During the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the test-sensor extractor moves from the first position to the second position and extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
According to a further embodiment, a cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a first mechanical mechanism, a lid, and a pusher assembly. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing on a slant. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The first mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The lid is moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position. The pusher assembly is connected to the lid. The pusher assembly is moveable between a first position and a second position. During the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the pusher assembly moves from the first position to the second position and extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
According to yet another embodiment, a cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a lid. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing on a slant. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The lid is moveable between a closed position and an open position. The lid seals the opening in the closed position. The lid in the open position allows the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, to be manually extracted from the cartridge.
According to yet another embodiment, a cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a lid. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The plurality of test sensors includes at least one sensor electrical contact. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The lid is moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position. The lid includes at least one lid electrical contact. During the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the at least one electrical contact contacts the at least one sensor contact of one of the plurality of test sensors. During movement of the lid from the open position to the closed position, the lid extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
According to yet a further embodiment, a cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a rotatable drum. The housing has an interior portion. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The rotatable drum includes at least one notch formed therein. The drum is coupled to an interior portion of the housing. The at least one notch is adapted to receive exactly one test sensor. During the movement of the drum from a first position to a second position, the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, is extracted from the interior of the cartridge.
According to another embodiment, a cartridge adapted to be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a test-sensor extractor. The housing forms at least two openings therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. The test-sensor extractor is adapted to carry and extract the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, in a second direction at least partially through one of the at least two openings. The test-sensor extractor has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion are connected by at least one hinge. The second direction and the first direction are generally perpendicular to each other.
According to one embodiment, a sensor-dispensing instrument comprises a cartridge, an instrument housing, an ejector mechanism, and at least one deflector. The cartridge includes a cartridge housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a test-sensor extractor. The cartridge housing forms at least two openings therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. The test-sensor extractor is adapted to carry and extract the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, in a second direction at least partially through one of the openings. The test-sensor extractor has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion are connected by at least one hinge. The second direction and the first direction being generally perpendicular to each other. The instrument housing forms a dispensing outlet and is adapted to receive the cartridge. The ejector mechanism is adapted to extend through at least one of the openings and contact the test-sensor extractor. The at least one deflector is adapted to contact and deflect the first portion of the test-sensor extractor and assist in extracting the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, at least partially through the dispensing outlet.
According to yet another embodiment, a cartridge adapted to be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument comprises a housing, a base, a plurality of test sensors, and an exterior spring mechanism. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The base is adapted to be in sealing engagement with the housing in a first position. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The exterior spring mechanism is attached to the housing and the base and adapted to assist in sealingly engaging the housing and the base. In a first position, the housing and the base are in sealing engagement and, in a second position, the housing and base are spaced apart.
According to a further embodiment, a sensor-dispensing instrument comprises a cartridge, an instrument housing, and an ejector mechanism. The cartridge includes a cartridge housing, a base, a plurality of test sensors, and an exterior spring mechanism. The cartridge housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The base is adapted to be in sealing engagement with the housing in a first position. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The exterior spring mechanism is attached to the cartridge housing and the base and adapted to assist in sealingly engaging the cartridge housing and the base. The instrument housing forms a dispensing outlet and is adapted to received the cartridge. The ejector mechanism is adapted to move and be inserted between the cartridge housing and the base such that the cartridge housing and base are spaced apart. The ejector mechanism is adapted to carry and extract the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, in a second direction at least partially from the cartridge. The second direction is generally perpendicular to the first direction. In a first position, the cartridge housing and the base are in sealing engagement and, in a second position, the cartridge housing and base are spaced apart.
According to another embodiment, a cartridge comprises a housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism and a sliding pusher lid assembly. The housing forms at least one opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The sliding pusher lid assembly includes a flexible pusher tab. The flexible pusher tab is adapted to contact and push one of the plurality of test sensors from the housing and at least partially through the opening. The flexible pusher tab extends generally outwardly and generally downwardly from the remainder of the sliding pusher lid assembly. In the closed position, the sliding pusher lid assembly is adapted to assist in sealing the cartridge.
According to another embodiment, a sensor-dispensing instrument is adapted to determine a concentration of an analyte and comprises a cartridge and instrument housing. The cartridge includes a cartridge housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism, and a sliding pusher lid assembly. The cartridge housing forms at least one cartridge opening therethrough. The plurality of test sensors is stacked in the cartridge housing. The plurality of test sensors is adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte. The mechanical mechanism is adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction. One of the plurality of test sensors is positioned for extraction from the cartridge. The sliding pusher lid assembly is moveable between a first position and a second position. The sliding pusher lid assembly is adapted to assist in sealing the sensor-dispensing instrument in the second position. The sliding pusher assembly includes a flexible pusher tab. The flexible pusher tab extends generally outwardly and generally downwardly from the remainder of the sliding pusher lid assembly. The instrument housing forms a dispensing outlet and is adapted to receive the cartridge. The flexible pusher tab is adapted to push one of the plurality of test sensors from the cartridge and at least partially through the dispensing outlet.
a is a front view of the sensor-dispensing instrument of
b is a side view of the sensor-dispensing instrument of
c is a front view of the sensor-dispensing instrument of
d is a side view of the sensor-dispensing instrument of
a is a side view of a cartridge or sensor-dispensing instrument according to another embodiment with the lid in a closed position.
b is a side view of the cartridge or the sensor-dispensing instrument of
c is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines 4c-4c of
d is a side view of a lid and retainer tabs in an open position according to a further embodiment.
e is a side view of the lid and retainer tabs of
a is a side view of a cartridge in a closed position according to another embodiment.
b is a side view of the cartridge of
c is a front view of the cartridge of
d is a side view of a cartridge in a closed position according to yet another embodiment.
e is a front view of a cartridge in a closed position according to another embodiment.
f is a front view of the cartridge of
a is a front view of a cartridge in a closed position according to a further embodiment.
b is a front view of the cartridge of
c is a side view of the cartridge of
a is a front view of a lid in a closed position according to yet another embodiment.
b is a front view of the lid of
a is a front view of a cartridge in a closed position according to one embodiment.
b is a front view of the cartridge of
a is a front view of a cartridge in a closed position according to yet a further embodiment.
b is a front view of the cartridge of
c is a front view of a cartridge in a closed position according to another embodiment.
d is a front view of the cartridge of
a is a front view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment in a closed position.
b is a front view of the cartridge of
a is an exploded front perspective view of a cartridge according to another embodiment.
b is a side view of the cartridge of
c is a perspective view of the cartridge of
d is an enlarged front view of the lid and cartridge of
e,f are perspective views of the cartridge of
g is an enlarged view of the lid with a test sensor of
a is a front perspective view of a cartridge according to a further embodiment.
b is a side view of a cartridge of
a is a front perspective view of a cartridge according to another embodiment.
b is a front perspective view of the cartridge of
c is a front perspective view of the test-sensor extractor of
d is a perspective view of a sensor-dispensing instrument with the cartridge of
e,f depict an ejector mechanism contacting the test-sensor extractor of
a is a front perspective view of a cartridge in a closed position and an ejector mechanism according to another embodiment.
b is a front perspective view of the cartridge of
c is a perspective view of the ejector mechanism of
d is a perspective view of a sensor-dispensing instrument with the cartridge and ejector mechanism of
a is a front view of a cartridge in a closed position according to another embodiment of the present invention.
b is a cut-away top perspective view of the cartridge of
c is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 15c-15c of
a is an enlarged front view of a partial cartridge with a flexible pusher tab according to another embodiment of the present invention.
b is an enlarged top view of the partial cartridge of
c is an enlarged front view of a partial cartridge with a flexible pusher tab according to a further embodiment of the present invention.
a-c are enlarged front views of a partial cartridge with a flexible pusher tab using a guiding mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention.
a-c are enlarged front views of a partial cartridge with a flexible pusher tab using a guiding mechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention.
a-c are enlarged front views of a partial cartridge with a flexible pusher tab according to yet another embodiment.
a-c are partial front views of a sensor-dispensing instrument using the cartridge of
The present invention is directed to cartridges that contain a plurality of test sensors and sensor-dispensing instruments that use cartridges. The plurality of test sensors is used to determine concentrations of analytes. Analytes that may be measured using the present invention include glucose, lipid profiles (e.g., cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and HDL), microalbumin, hemoglobin A1C, fructose, lactate, or bilirubin. The present invention is not limited, however, to these specific analytes and it is contemplated that other analyte concentrations may be determined. The analytes may be in, for example, a whole blood sample, a blood serum sample, a blood plasma sample, other body fluids like ISF (interstitial fluid) and urine, and non-body fluids.
Referring to the drawings, a cartridge 10 in
Referring to
The housing 12 may be made of a variety of materials, but is typically made of polymeric material. Some examples of polymeric materials that may be used in forming the housing 12 include polycarbonate, ABS, nylon, polystyrene, polypropylene, or combinations thereof. Other additives may be added in forming the housing such as, for example, TEFLON® for lubrication or glass to provide strength. It is contemplated that other additives may be employed. Polycarbonate is desirable for several reasons including being a durable material and having an ability to prevent or inhibit air (especially moisture) from entering the housing 12.
The housing 12 may be formed by processes known to those skilled in the art including injection-molding processes. It is contemplated that other processes may be used such as a molding process.
As shown in
In one embodiment, the plurality of test sensors includes an appropriately selected enzyme to react with the desired analyte or analytes to be tested. An enzyme that may be used to react with glucose is glucose oxidase. It is contemplated that other enzymes may be used such as glucose dehydrogenase. An example of a test sensor 14 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,531,040 assigned to Bayer Corporation. It is contemplated that other test sensors may be used in the cartridge 10.
The plurality of test sensors 14 may vary in number than shown in
To urge the stacked test sensors 14 upwardly (in the direction of arrow A in
Additionally, the mechanical mechanism 16 may be a ratchet pusher. Using such an embodiment, the ratchet pusher automatically ratchets the stacked test sensors upwardly (i.e., the direction of arrow A in
To assist in guiding the mechanical mechanism 16 upwardly (in the direction of arrow A in
The cartridge 10 includes the pusher assembly 18 that is adapted to push one of the plurality of test sensors 14 from the cartridge. As shown in
Examples of ferromagnetic material that may used in forming the pusher assembly 18 include, but are not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt or combinations thereof. Ferromagnetic materials exhibit high magnetic permeability and increase strength of pull. One example of a magnet is an electromagnet.
To assist in sealing the cartridge against a dispensing outlet of the sensor-dispensing instrument (such as sensor-dispensing instrument 100 in
It is contemplated that a seal may be on the sensor-dispensing instrument instead of the cartridge. In such an embodiment, the seal may be on an inner surface 102a of housing 102 (
The sensor-dispensing instrument 100 may include a detection mechanism that detects whether the lid is in a closed position. For example, the sensor-dispensing instrument 100 may include a detection mechanism such as a contact switch that alerts the user when the cap is not in the closed position. This alert may be provided to the user via an audible signal. This is especially desirable if the lid in the closed position provides the main source of protecting the test sensors from being exposed to humidity from the environment.
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 14, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 10 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air and moisture from entering into an interior of the housing 12 that contains the test sensors 14. One type of removable packaging that may be used to enclose the cartridge 10 is aluminum foil. It is contemplated that other types of removable packaging may be employed. It is contemplated that desiccant material may be added in the interior of the removable packaging to assist in maintaining an appropriate humidity level therein. If the reagent in the test sensors is not humidity sensitive, then there is little or no need to include much, if any, desiccant. The removable packaging with or without the desiccant material assists in increasing the shelf-use of the test sensors. The removable packaging is to be removed before the cartridge 10 is placed into the sensor-dispensing instrument.
It is contemplated that the cartridge 10 may be initially placed in a polymeric container such as a bottle or other type of container. The container may be shaped similarly to the cartridge with a desirable seal to prevent or inhibit air or moisture from entering the interior of the container. The container may include a lid that is attached to the remainder of the container via a living hinge. It is contemplated that desiccant may also be added within the container. The container with or without the desiccant material assists in increasing the shelf-use of the test sensors. The cartridge 10 is removed from the container before being placed into the sensor-dispensing instrument.
As shown in
The amount of desiccant material 26 plus any extra desiccant included with any external packaging should be sufficient to obtain the desired shelf-life (the time period before any of the plurality of test sensors is used). More specifically, the shelf-life typically refers to the time period before the cartridge 10 is removed from the packaging material, if used. The amount of desiccant material 26 should also be sufficient to obtain the desired use-life (the time period after first use of one of the plurality of test sensors). More specifically, the use-life typically refers to the time period after the cartridge 10 is removed from the packaging material, if used.
Examples of desiccant that may be included within the disposable container, the removable packaging enclosing the disposable container, or the container containing the cartridge include commercially available desiccants. The desiccant may be in the form of several shapes including balls, tablets, granular, or paper. For example, the desiccant may be molecular sieve spheres or thick desiccant paper. The desiccant may be placed within the interior of the housing 12 such as shown with desiccant material 26. The desiccant may be molded into an interior surface of the housing 12 of the cartridge so as to absorb moisture within the same. One non-limiting example of desiccant material may be purchased from Multisorb of Buffalo, N.Y. in the form of, for example, molecular sieve beads.
It is contemplated that desiccant may not be used for test sensors that are not humidity sensitive. The amount of desiccant used, if any, depends on how humidity sensitive the test sensor is and the duration of the desired use-life and shelf-life.
Referring to
The sensor-dispensing instrument 100 comprises a cartridge 10 (not shown in
It is contemplated that other cartridges may be used. Depending on the selected cartridge, the interior of the instrument housing may be redesigned to correspond to the selected cartridge. The instrument housing 102 also forms a dispensing outlet 106, which is sized to dispense the test sensors 14 one at a time.
The slider 104 comprises a ferromagnetic material or a magnet. As shown in
The slider 104 is adapted to be magnetically coupled to the pusher assembly 18 of the cartridge 10. As discussed above, at least one of the slider and the pusher assembly comprises a magnet. For example, the slider 104 and the pusher assembly 18 may comprise a magnet. It is contemplated that the slider 104 may comprise a magnet and the pusher assembly 18 may comprise a ferromagnetic material. It is also contemplated that the slider 104 may comprise a ferromagnetic material and the pusher assembly 18 comprises a magnet. Examples of ferromagnetic material that may used in forming the slider 104 include, but are not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt or combinations thereof. Ferromagnetic materials exhibit high magnetic permeability and increase strength of pull.
Referring to
The pusher assembly 18 is adapted to move one of the plurality of test sensors 14 from the cartridge 10 and at least partially through the dispensing outlet 106, such as shown in
To assist in moving one of the plurality of test sensors 14 at least partially through the dispensing outlet 106, the lid 130 is moveable between a closed position (
The lid 130 may be manually moved between the open position (
To provide an enhanced seal, it is desirable for the lid 130 to be a little more flexible than the circumference of the dispensing outlet 106. The lid 130 may be made of materials including polymeric materials. Some examples of polymeric materials that may be used in forming the housing 12 include polycarbonate, ABS, nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, or combinations thereof.
The lid 130 of
To assist in providing an improved seal, the sensor-dispensing instrument may include a sealing mechanism such as a seal ridge located generally around the periphery of the dispensing opening. Alternatively, or in addition to, the lid may have a corresponding seal ridge that is located to generally surround the periphery of the dispensing opening when the lid is in a closed position. The sealing that is located generally around the periphery of the dispensing outlet and/or on the lid may be a variety of different seals such as (a) a raised seal that seals to a flat surface, (b) a rib and groove arrangement or (c) two generally flat surfaces. It is contemplated that other sealing techniques may be employed to prevent or inhibit moisture from reaching the test sensors.
According to another embodiment, the cartridge may include a sealing mechanism such as seal ridge that is located generally around the periphery of the opening. Alternatively, or in addition to, the lid may have a corresponding seal ridge that is located to generally surround the periphery of the dispensing opening when the lid is in a closed position. The sealing that is located generally around the periphery of the opening and/or on the lid may be a variety of different seals such as (a) a raised seal that seals to a flat surface, (b) a rib and groove arrangement or (c) two generally flat surfaces. It is contemplated that other sealing techniques may be employed to prevent or inhibit moisture from reaching the test sensors in the cartridge.
In the embodiment of
a, 4b depict a sensor-dispensing instrument or a cartridge 140 that comprises opposing sidewalls 142, 144 and a lid 150. Specifically, the lid 150 may be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument or a cartridge. The lid 150 is adapted to slide between a closed position (
To assist in manually sliding the lid 150 between the open position and the closed position, the lid 150 includes a handle or thumb grip 152. The handle 152 is a generally rectangular shape in
It is also contemplated that the lid 150 may be adapted to automatically move between the open position and the closed position. For example, a user may initiate the movement of the lid 150 via pressing a button. Alternatively, the lid may be linked to a pusher assembly or test-sensor extractor such that movement of the pusher assembly or test-sensor extractor moves the lid. For example, a cam mechanism may link the lid to the pusher assembly or the test-sensor extractor. For example, as the slider 104 is moved from the first position (
To assist in sliding the lid 150 between the open position and the closed position, the sensor-dispensing instrument or cartridge 140 further includes at least one retainer tab. For example, in
In the closed position (
The lid 150 of
To assist in providing an improved seal, the sensor-dispensing instrument or cartridge 140 of
According to a further embodiment, at least one of the retainer tabs may be angled. Referring to
According to another embodiment, a cartridge 210 of
Referring to
As shown in
To urge the stacked test sensors 214 generally upwardly (in the direction of arrow D in
The cartridge 210 also includes the test-sensor extractor 218 that is adapted to move between a first position (
The movement of the lid 230 from the closed position (
To assist in the extraction of one of the plurality of test sensors 214 at least partially through the opening 220, the cartridge 210 includes a ramp 246 (see
The lid 230 works in connection with at least one retainer tab (retainer tabs 228a, 228b) in a similar manner as described above in connection with retainer tabs 154a, 154b. It is contemplated that other lids may be used with the test-sensor extractor 218 to extract the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, at least partially through the opening.
To assist in providing clearance for the linkage 224 shown in
Referring back to
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 214, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 210 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 212 that contains the test sensors 214 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material may be added to the cartridge 210.
According to another embodiment, a cartridge 260 of
Referring to
As shown in
To urge the stacked test sensors 264 generally upwardly (in the direction of arrow F in
The cartridge 260 also includes the test-sensor extractor 268 that is adapted to move between a first position (
The movement of the lid 280 from the closed position (
The test sensor 264 may be extracted fully by the user in a manual fashion. After the test sensor 264a has been extracted, the lid 280 is moved back to the closed position (
The lid 280 of
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 264, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 260 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 262 that contains the test sensors 264 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material 276 may be added to the cartridge 260.
According to a further embodiment, a cartridge 310 of
Referring to
As shown in
The cartridge 310 also includes the test-sensor extractor 318 that is adapted to move between a first position (
The lid 330 moves generally downwardly (in the direction of arrow H) from the closed position (
According to one embodiment, the test-sensor extractor 318 has a generally horizontal portion 318a and an angular or sloped portion 318b. The angular portion 318b extends from the cartridge 310 when the lid 330 is in the open position.
When the lid 330 is moved back to the closed position, the lid 330 releasably engages the angular portion 318b of the test-sensor extractor 318 and pushes the angular portion 318b back into the cartridge 310. After the test sensor 314a has been extracted, the lid 330 is moved back to the closed position (
According to another embodiment, the test-sensor extractor may be shaped differently than depicted in
The lid 330 of
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 314, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 310 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 312 that contains the test sensors 314 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material 326 may be added to the cartridge 310.
It is contemplated that other lids may be used with the previously described cartridges and sensor-dispensing instruments. For example, according to another embodiment, a lid 370 may be used as depicted in
One example of a cartridge that may be used with lid 370 is depicted in
According to a further embodiment, a cartridge 510 of
Referring to
As shown in
The cartridge 510 also includes the pusher assembly 518 that is adapted to move between a first position (
The movement of the lid 530 from the closed position (
When the lid 530 is moved back to the closed position, the lid 530 moves the pusher assembly 518 back into the cartridge 510. After the test sensor 514a has been extracted, the lid 530 is moved back to the closed position (
The cartridge 510 may also include a sealing port located generally around the periphery of the opening 520. The sealing port assists in maintaining a desirable seal with the lid 530 and functions in the same manner as the sealing port 22 discussed above.
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 514, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 510 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 512 that contains the test sensors 514 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material 526 may be added to the cartridge 510.
According to an alternative embodiment, a cartridge 540 of
According to another embodiment, a cartridge 560 of
Referring to
As shown in
The movement of the lid 570 from the closed position (
After the test sensor 564a has been extracted, the next test sensor is moved in the direction of arrow K via the mechanical mechanism 566 (e.g., a spring). To assist in properly guiding and positioning the next test sensor, a plurality of tracks 568a, 568b may be employed. When the lid 570 is in the closed position, the lid 570 seals the opening 572.
The cartridge 560 may also include a sealing mechanism such as a sealing port located generally around the periphery of the opening 572. The sealing port assists in maintaining a desirable seal between the lid 570 and the opening 572 and functions in the same manner as the sealing port 22 discussed above. A sealing mechanism may be located on the lid 570 to form a desirable seal between the lid 570 and the opening 572.
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 574, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 560 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 562 that contains the test sensors 564 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material may be added to the cartridge 560.
According to a further embodiment, a cartridge 610 of
As shown in
To urge the stacked test sensors 614 in a first direction (in the direction of arrow L in
The movement of the lid 630 from the closed position (
According to another process, the lid 630 may be automatically moved between the open position and the closed position by, for example, pressing a button. One example of an automatic process could include the plurality of test sensors being removed entirely using a motorized mechanism to move the lid.
The lid 630 includes at least one electrical contact. As shown in, for example,
To assist in moving and sealing the lid 630, a plurality of retainer tabs 636a, 636b as shown in
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 614, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 610 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 612 that contains the test sensors 614 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material 626 may be added to the cartridge 610.
According to a further embodiment, a cartridge 710 of
As shown in
To urge the stacked test sensors 714 in a first direction (in the direction of arrow O in
To assist in the extraction of the plurality of test sensors 714 from the cartridge 710, the rotatable drum 726 forms at least one notch 728 therein. The rotatable drum 726 is coupled to the interior portion 712a of the housing 712. The rotatable drum 726 may be coupled to the interior portion 712a by a push-fit attachment. It is contemplated that the rotatable drum may be coupled to the interior portion by other techniques such as spring loading. In a desired embodiment, the rotatable drum 726 is in sealing engagement with the interior portion 712a. For example, a section of the interior portion 712a may include a seal that is engaged by the drum 726. In such an embodiment, opposing surfaces 726a, 726b of the drum 726 are in sealingly engagement with the interior portion 712a. In another embodiment, the opposing surfaces 726a, 726b may include a respective seal that engages with a respective section of the interior portion 712a.
The at least one notch 728 is adapted to receive exactly one test sensor, such as test sensor 714a of
The cartridge 710 may further include an ejector mechanism that is adapted to at least partially remove the plurality of test sensors 714, one at a time, from the at least one notch 728 formed in the drum 726 in the direction of arrow P.
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 714, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 710 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 712 that contains the test sensors 714 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material may be added to the cartridge 710.
According to yet another embodiment, a cartridge 760 of
As shown in
To urge the stacked test sensors 764 in a first direction (in the direction of arrow P in
The test-sensor extractor 768 is adapted to carry and extract the plurality of test sensors 764, one at a time, in a second direction (direction of arrow Q) at least partially through an opening 762a. For enhanced clarity of the test-sensor-extractor 768 in the cartridge 760, the plurality of test sensors except for test sensor 764a have been omitted from
As shown in
The cartridge 760 is adapted to be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument. According to one embodiment, a sensor-dispensing instrument 750 of
The ejector mechanism 754 is adapted to extend through at least one of the openings 762b (see
The deflectors 756a,b are adapted to contact and deflect the second portion 768b of the test-sensor extractor 768 and assist in extracting the plurality of test sensors 764, one at a time, at least partially through the dispensing outlet 758 (see
According to one method, the ejector mechanism 754 may be released from its initial position (
According to another embodiment, a cartridge 910 of
As shown in
To urge the stacked test sensors 914 in a first direction (in the direction of arrow S in
According to one embodiment, the exterior spring mechanism 936 is attached to the housing 912 and the base 913 and is adapted to assist in sealingly engaging the housing 912 and the base 913. In the first position (
As shown in
The cartridge 910 is adapted to be used in a sensor-dispensing instrument. According to one embodiment, the cartridge 910 is used with a sensor-dispensing instrument 900. The sensor-dispensing instrument 900 includes a housing 902 and an ejector mechanism 904. The housing 902 forms a dispensing outlet 906 and is adapted to received the cartridge 910.
The ejector mechanism 904 is adapted to move and be inserted between the 912 housing and the base 913 (see
If electrochemical sensors are used in the sensor-dispensing instrument, then one of the test sensors will be positioned appropriately to an electrical contact. It is contemplated that the electrical contact includes a plurality of contacts that is positioned to correspond to the test sensor. The front end of the sensor then receives, for example, a drop of blood to be tested, whereby the blood is analyzed by the electrical contact. The results of the analysis may then displayed on a display such as a liquid crystal display of the sensor-dispensing instrument. It is contemplated that other type of sensors may be used such as optical sensors.
The testing end of the sensor is adapted to be placed into contact with the fluid sample (e.g., a whole blood sample) to be tested. The whole blood sample may be generated by a lancing device such as a lancet. The whole blood sample may be obtained by a lancet that may be separate from the sensor-dispensing instrument or may be integrated within the sensor-dispensing instrument. The lancing device may obtain blood by, e.g., pricking a person's finger.
According to one process, the whole blood sample may be prepared for testing by (a) advancing one of the test sensors in position to receive a whole blood sample; (b) generating a whole blood sample; and (c) bringing the test sensor and the whole blood sample into contact wherein the blood is generally drawn into the sensor by capillary action.
The sensors are typically provided with a capillary channel that extends from the front or testing end of the sensors to biosensing or reagent material disposed in the sensor. When the testing end of the sensor is placed into fluid (e.g., blood that is accumulated on a person's finger after the finger has been pricked), a portion of the fluid is drawn into the capillary channel by capillary action. The fluid then chemically reacts with the reagent material in the sensor so that an electrical signal indicative of the blood glucose level in the blood being tested is supplied and subsequently transmitted to an electrical assembly.
After the testing has been completed, the test sensor may be removed by several methods from the sensor-dispensing instrument. In one embodiment, the sensor-dispensing instrument may include an eject mechanism that ejects the used test sensor from the sensor-dispensing instrument. In such an embodiment, the test sensors is released forcefully. In another embodiment, the test sensors may be ejected by releasing a grip of the test sensors, resulting in the test sensor being discarded by gravity from the sensor-dispensing instrument. In a further embodiment, the test sensor may also be removed manually from the sensor-dispensing instrument.
According to a further embodiment, a cartridge 810 of
Referring to
As shown in
The lid assembly 818 of the cartridge 810 is adapted to move between an open position (
The flexible pusher tab 819 is adapted to contact and push the plurality of test sensors 814 from the housing 812 one at a time and at least partially through the opening 820. The flexible pusher tab 819 extends in a generally downwardly and generally outwardly direction (as viewed with respect to
The flexible pusher tabs may be made by polymeric materials. For example, the flexible pusher tabs may be made of polymeric materials such as polycarbonate, ABS, nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, or combinations thereof. The flexible pusher tabs may be molded with the remainder of the sliding pusher lid assembly.
In another embodiment, the flexible pusher tabs may be spring loaded to the remainder of the sliding pusher lid assembly. For example, referring to
According to one process, the lid assembly 818 is manually moved between the open position (
The pusher grip of the lid assembly may also include a locking or latch mechanism to provide added security in maintaining the seal. For example, referring to
According to another process, the lid assembly 818 may be automatically moved between the open and closed positions by, for example, pressing a button. One example of an automatic process may include the plurality of test sensors 814 being removed entirely using a motorized mechanism.
To assist in removing the plurality of test sensors 814 one at a time, the cartridge may include a reference surface 842 that is adapted to contact and provide a surface for the plurality of test sensors 814 to push against. The reference surface 842 provides a stop that holds the plurality of test sensors 814 in position for removal from the cartridge 810. The reference surface 842 forms a slit 844 therein that gives access to the entire length of the topmost test sensor (as viewed in
The length that the flexible pusher tab 819 extends down into the cartridge is typically greater than the thickness of the reference surface 842 plus the clearance between the bottom of the lid assembly 818 and the top of the reference surface, but not greater than the thickness of the reference surface 842 plus the thickness of one of the plurality of test sensors 814. The position of the flexible pusher tab may be referenced against the reference surface so that mechanical tolerance requirements are minimized. By maintaining these dimensions, the lid assembly 818 and, more specifically, the flexible pusher tab 819 will move only one test sensor at a time.
After the test sensor 814a has been pushed from the cartridge 810, the next test sensor is loaded into position via the mechanical mechanism 816 (e.g., a spring). When the lid assembly 818 is in the closed position (
To assist in sliding the lid assembly 818 between the open position and the closed position, at least one retainer tab may be used. For example, in
To increase the downward sealing force on the lid assembly 818 in the sealed or closed position and to assist in indicating to the user that the lid assembly is in a closed position, the cartridge 810 may include at least one détente 839 as shown in
To assist in protecting the reagent(s) in the test sensors 814, desirable packaging material and/or desiccant material may be used. The cartridge 810 is typically packaged in material that prevents or inhibits air from entering into an interior of the housing 812 that contains the test sensors 814 as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10. Additionally, as discussed above in connection with cartridge 10, desiccant material 826 (
It is contemplated that the flexible pusher tabs may be of different designs so as to assist in pushing the test sensors 814. For example, in
The test sensor 856 should be of sufficient rigidity such that when the flexible pusher tab 852 contacts the test sensors, the test sensors 856 do not bend and jam. The rigidity or stiffness of the test sensors is determined by factors such as the material used in forming the test sensors and the thickness of the test sensors (see, e.g., thicknesses T6 and T7 of the test sensor 856a of
The amount of force that the flexible pusher tab 852 provides must be sufficient to push one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening, while at the same time the amount of force should not result in (a) the test sensors significantly bending or (b) multiple test sensors being grabbed. If the test sensor bends or multiple test sensors are grabbed, the likelihood of a jam occurring is increased.
As the flexible pusher tab 852 is moved in the direction of arrow W (
The flexible pusher tab 852 may engage a different surface of the test sensor than depicted in
According to another embodiment, a cartridge may also further include a guiding mechanism to assist in positioning the flexible pusher tab assembly and facilitate removing the plurality of test sensors one at a time. The flexible pusher tab assembly 860 of
As shown in
The control of the exact position of the pusher tab relative to the test sensors may be implemented by various combinations of referenced surfaces on the pusher tab and the cartridge. For example, referring to
As shown in
When the flexible pusher tab 872 is moved in a downward direction, the surface-contacting extension 875 extends below and contacts a bottom surface 856f of the test sensor 856a. A space 873 is formed between test sensors 856a,g when the surface-contacting extension 875 extends between these two test sensors 856a,g. During the remaining pushing of the test sensor 856a, the surface-contacting extension 875 continues to engage the bottom surface 856f such that the test sensor 856a is not abutting any of the remaining test sensors 856. At the same time, the notch 874 contacts the generally vertical surface 856d. The notch 874 acts to more securely capture the test sensor during the excision process. By having the flexible pusher tab 872 contact the bottom surface 856f of the test sensor 856a, it assists in preventing or inhibiting more than one test sensor from exiting an opening 879.
According to a further embodiment, a flexible pusher tab 882 of
As the surface-engaging portion 882a is contacting the test sensor 856a, a surface-engaging portion 882b pushes the remainder of the plurality of test sensors 856 in a generally downward direction (the direction of arrow Y in
Referring to
The sensor-dispensing instrument 830 comprises the cartridge 810 (described above in connection with
It is contemplated that other cartridges may be used in a sensor-dispensing instrument such as those cartridges having a sliding pusher lid assembly with various flexible pusher tabs 852, 866, 870 and 880 described above in connection with
Referring to
According to other embodiments, the sliding lid assembly may be a part of the sensor-dispensing instrument as opposed to the disposable cartridge. In such embodiments, the lid retracts slightly farther in the direction of arrow W in
Although ideally the cartridges of the present invention fit in an instrument and dispense sensors into the proper position for measurement, the cartridge design may function as a stand-alone test sensor container (i.e., a bottle that automatically dispenses a strip for manual loading into an instrument).
A cartridge adapted to be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument, the cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge; and
a pusher assembly being adapted to push one of the plurality of test sensors from the cartridge, the pusher assembly including a ferromagnetic material or a magnet.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A wherein the pusher assembly includes a magnet.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A wherein the pusher assembly includes a ferromagnetic material.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I wherein the ferromagnetic material is iron, nickel, cobalt or combinations thereof.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A further including a sealing port, the sealing port surrounding the at least one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment A further including a lid that is moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the at least one opening in the closed position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment L wherein the lid is adapted to slide between an open position and a closed position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment M further including at least one retainer tab to assist in maintaining pressure on the lid in forming a seal.
A sensor-dispensing instrument comprising:
a cartridge including a cartridge housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism and a pusher assembly, the cartridge housing forming at least one cartridge opening therethrough, the plurality of test sensors being stacked in the cartridge housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte, the mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge, the pusher assembly being adapted to push one of the plurality of test sensors from the cartridge, the pusher assembly including a ferromagnetic material or a magnet;
an instrument housing forming a dispensing outlet and being adapted to receive the cartridge;
a lid being moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals at least one of the dispensing outlet and the cartridge opening in the closed position; and
a slider comprising a ferromagnetic material or a magnet, the slider being adapted to be magnetically coupled to the pusher assembly of the cartridge, the slider being adapted to slide from a first position to a second position,
wherein during the movement of the slider from the first position to the second position, the pusher assembly contacts one of the plurality of test sensors and pushes it at least partially through the dispensing opening,
wherein at least the pusher assembly or the slider comprises a magnet.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the analyte is glucose.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the cartridge further including desiccant.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the pusher assembly and the slider include a magnet.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the pusher assembly comprises a ferromagnetic material and the slider comprises a magnet.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the pusher assembly comprises a magnet and the slider comprises a ferromagnetic material.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the magnet is an electromagnet.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the lid is moved between an open position and a closed position via a hinge.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment Y wherein during the movement of the slider from the first position to the second position, the slider contacts the lid and moves the lid from a closed position to an open position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the lid is generally circular.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the lid is a generally rectangular shape.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the lid is adapted to slide between an open position and a closed position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment C1 further comprising at least one retainer tab to assist in maintaining pressure on the lid in forming a seal.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment D1 wherein the at least one retainer tab includes at least one detent.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment C1 wherein the lid is adapted to manually slide between the open position and the closed position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment C1 wherein the lid is adapted to automatically slide between the open position and the closed position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O further comprising a seal located generally around the periphery of the dispensing opening.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the lid includes a first end and a second end, the lid being moveable between a closed position and an open position via a hinge located near the first end such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position, the lid including a projection located near the second end, the projection extending generally downwardly into an interior of the cartridge.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I1 wherein the projection forms at least one detent to assist in further sealing the cartridge.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the lid seals the dispensing outlet in the closed position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O wherein the lid seals the cartridge opening in the closed position.
A lid mechanism adapted to be used in a cartridge or a sensor-dispensing instrument that includes a plurality of test sensors to assist in determining the concentration of at least one analyte, the lid mechanism comprising:
a lid being adapted to slide between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals an opening in the closed position; and
a plurality of retainer tabs to assist in maintaining pressure on the lid in forming a seal.
The lid mechanism of Alternate Embodiment M1 wherein the lid is a generally rectangular shape.
The lid mechanism of Alternate Embodiment M1 wherein at least one of the plurality of retainer tabs includes at least one detent.
The lid mechanism of Alternate Embodiment O1 wherein the periphery of the lid forms at least one recess that corresponds with the at least one detent.
The lid mechanism of Alternate Embodiment M1 wherein the plurality of retainer tabs is generally flexible.
The lid mechanism of Alternate Embodiment M1 wherein the plurality of retainer tabs is injected molded in forming the cartridge or the sensor-dispensing instrument.
A cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge;
a test-sensor extractor being adapted to move between a first position and a second position; and
a lid being mechanically linked to the test-sensor extractor, the lid being moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position,
wherein during the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the test-sensor extractor moves from the first position to the second position and extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the lid is manually moveable between the open position and the closed position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 further including a ramp positioned to assist in extracting one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the plurality of test sensors is stacked on a slant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the lid further includes a seal.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the lid forms at least one notch.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the lid is mechanically linked via a flexible linkage.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment Y1 wherein the lid is mechanically linked via a linkage that is hinged at the lid.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment Y1 wherein the lid is mechanically linked via a linkage that is hinged at the test-sensor extractor.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the test-sensor extractor is generally parallel with the opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment S1 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
A cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a first mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge;
a second mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a second direction, the second direction being located generally perpendicular to the first direction;
a test-sensor extractor being moveable between a first position and a second position via the second mechanical mechanism; and
a lid being moveable being a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position,
wherein during the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the test-sensor extractor moves from the first position to the second position and extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the first mechanical mechanism is a spring and the second mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the test-sensor extractor has a generally horizontal portion and an angular portion, the angular portion extending from the cartridge when the lid is in the open position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the test-sensor extractor has a generally horizontal portion and a second portion, the second portion extending from the cartridge when the lid is in the open position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the lid includes a first end and a second end, the lid being moveable between a closed position and an open position via a hinge located near the first end such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position, the lid including a projection located near the second end, the projection extending generally downwardly into an interior of the cartridge.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment M2 wherein the projection forms at least one detent to assist in locking the cartridge.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment I2 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
A cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing on a slant, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a first mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge;
a lid being moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position; and
a pusher assembly being connected to the lid, the pusher assembly being moveable between a first position and a second position,
wherein during the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the pusher assembly moves from the first position to the second position and extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 wherein the pusher assembly is connected to the lid via a cam mechanism.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 wherein the lid is moveable between the first position to the second position via a hinge.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 further including at least one track to assist in guiding the plurality of test sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 further including a second mechanical mechanism adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a second direction, the second direction being located generally perpendicular to the first direction.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 further including a stop member adapted to assist in preventing or inhibiting more than one of the plurality of test sensors from being extracted at a time.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 wherein the first mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment T2 further including a sealing port, the sealing port surrounding the at least one opening.
A cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing on a slant, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge; and
a lid being moveable between a closed position and an open position, the lid sealing the opening in the closed position,
wherein the lid in the open position allows the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, to be manually extracted from the cartridge.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G3 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G3 wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G3 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G3 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G3 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G3 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G3 further including a sealing port, the sealing port surrounding the at least one opening.
A cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte, the plurality of test sensors including at least one sensor electrical contact;
a mechanical mechanism adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge; and
a lid being moveable between a closed position and an open position such that the lid seals the opening in the closed position, the lid including at least one lid electrical contact,
wherein during the movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position, the at least one electrical contact contacts the at least one sensor contact of one of the plurality of test sensors,
wherein during movement of the lid from the open position to the closed position, the lid extracts one of the plurality of test sensors at least partially through the opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment O3 wherein the lid includes a plurality of electrical contacts and each of the plurality of test sensors includes a plurality of sensor contacts.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment O3 further comprising a plurality of retainer tabs to assist in sealing the cartridge.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment O3 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment O3 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment O3 wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment O3 wherein the analyte is glucose.
A cartridge comprising:
a housing having an interior portion;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge; and
a rotatable drum including at least one notch formed therein, the drum being coupled to an interior portion of the housing, the at least one notch being adapted to receive exactly one test sensor,
wherein during the movement of the drum from a first position to a second position, the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, is extracted from the interior of the cartridge.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 further including an ejector mechanism adapted to at least partially remove one of the test sensors from the at least one notch in the drum.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 wherein the drum is coupled to the interior portion of the housing by a push-fit attachment, the drum and a section of the interior portion of the housing being in a sealing engagement.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 wherein the drum is coupled to the interior portion of the housing by spring loading, the drum and a section of the interior portion of the housing being in a sealing engagement.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 further including a wheel connected to the drum, the wheel being adapted to assist in rotating the drum.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiments Z3 wherein the wheel is a twist wheel.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment V3 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
A cartridge adapted to be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument, the cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least two openings therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction; and
a test-sensor extractor being adapted to carry and extract the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, in a second direction at least partially through one of the at least two openings, the test-sensor extractor having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion being connected by at least one hinge, the second direction and the first direction being generally perpendicular to each other.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G4 further including at least two seals, the at least two seals covering the at least two openings in a closed position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G4 wherein the first and second portions are connected by at least two hinges.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G4 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G4 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G4 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G4 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment G4 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
A sensor-dispensing instrument comprising:
a cartridge including a cartridge housing, a plurality of test sensors, a mechanical mechanism and a test-sensor extractor, the cartridge housing forming at least two openings therethrough, the plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte, the mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, the test-sensor extractor being adapted to carry and extract the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, in a second direction at least partially through one of the openings, the test-sensor extractor having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion being connected by at least one hinge, the second direction and the first direction being generally perpendicular to each other;
an instrument housing forming a dispensing outlet and being adapted to receive the cartridge;
an ejector mechanism being adapted to extend through at least one of the openings and contact the test-sensor extractor; and
at least one deflector being adapted to contact and deflect the first portion of the test-sensor extractor and assist in extracting the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, at least partially through the dispensing outlet.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O4 wherein the at least one deflector is exactly two deflectors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment P4 wherein the test sensor is adapted to be extracted between the two deflectors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O4 wherein the ejector mechanism is spring loaded.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O4 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O4 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O4 further including desiccant.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O4 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment O4 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
A cartridge adapted to be used with a sensor-dispensing instrument, the cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a base being adapted to be in sealing engagement with the housing in a first position;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte; and
an exterior spring mechanism being attached to the housing and the base and adapted to assist in sealingly engaging the housing and the base,
wherein the housing and the base are in sealing engagement in a first position and wherein the housing and base are spaced apart in a second position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 wherein at least one end of the housing is chamfered.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 wherein the exterior spring mechanism includes at least two springs.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment Z4 wherein the exterior spring mechanism includes at least four springs.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 further including an interior mechanical mechanism adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment B5 wherein the interior mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 further including desiccant.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment X4 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
A sensor-dispensing instrument comprising:
a cartridge including a cartridge housing, a base, a plurality of test sensors, and an exterior spring mechanism, the cartridge housing forming at least one opening therethrough, the base being adapted to be in sealing engagement with the housing in a first position, the plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte, the exterior spring mechanism being attached to the cartridge housing and the base and adapted to assist in sealingly engaging the cartridge housing and the base;
an instrument housing forming a dispensing outlet and being adapted to received the cartridge; and
an ejector mechanism being adapted to move and be inserted between the cartridge housing and the base such that the cartridge housing and base are spaced apart, the ejector mechanism being adapted to carry and extract the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, in a second direction at least partially from the cartridge, the second direction being generally perpendicular to the first direction,
wherein the cartridge housing and the base are in sealing engagement in a first position and wherein the cartridge housing and base are spaced apart in a second position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I5 wherein the ejector mechanism is chamfered.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment J5 wherein at least one end of the cartridge housing is chamfered.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I5 wherein the exterior spring mechanism includes at least two springs.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment L5 wherein the exterior spring mechanism includes at least four springs.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I5 further including an interior mechanical mechanism adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment N5 wherein the interior mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I5 wherein the cartridge housing forms exactly one opening.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment T5 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I5 further including desiccant.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I5 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment I5 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
A cartridge comprising:
a housing forming at least one opening therethrough;
a plurality of test sensors being stacked in the housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte;
a mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge; and
a sliding pusher lid assembly including a flexible pusher tab, the flexible pusher tab being adapted to contact and push one of the plurality of test sensors from the housing and at least partially through the opening, the flexible pusher tab extending generally outwardly and generally downwardly from the remainder of the sliding pusher lid assembly,
wherein in the closed position, the sliding pusher lid assembly is adapted to assist in sealing the cartridge.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the sliding pusher assembly further includes a pusher grip to assist in the user in gripping and sliding the pusher lid assembly.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 further including a reference surface that is adapted to contact the plurality of test sensors one at a time and assist in removing the plurality of test sensors one at a time.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the flexible pusher tab comprises polycarbonate, ABS, nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, or combinations thereof.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein each of the plurality of test sensors forms a second notch, the flexible pusher tab forming a first notch at one end thereof to assist in engages the second notch and removing the plurality of test sensors one at a time.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 further including a guiding mechanism to assist in positioning the flexible pusher tab and facilitating removing the plurality of test sensors one at a time.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment Z5 wherein the guiding mechanism is a cam mechanism.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the sliding pusher lid assembly during the pushing of one of the plurality of test sensors is adapted to engage a bottom surface of one of the test sensors such that the one of the plurality of the test sensors does not touch any of the remaining test sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the slider pusher lid assembly further includes a détente to assist in indicating to the user that the slider pusher lid assembly is in a closed position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the housing forms exactly one opening.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the flexible pusher tab is adapted to clear the seal when the sliding pusher lid assembly is moved to an open position.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the flexible pusher tab is attached to the sliding pusher lid assembly via a flexible support.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the flexible support comprises metal or polymeric material.
The cartridge of Alternate Embodiment U5 wherein the sliding pusher lid assembly includes a latching mechanism and a flexible tab to unlock and disengage the sliding pusher lid assembly.
A sensor-dispensing instrument adapted to determine a concentration of an analyte, the sensor-dispensing instrument comprising:
a cartridge including a cartridge housing, a plurality of test sensors, and a mechanical mechanism, and a sliding pusher lid assembly, the cartridge housing forming at least one cartridge opening therethrough, the plurality of test sensors being stacked in the cartridge housing, the plurality of test sensors being adapted to assist in testing at least one analyte, the mechanical mechanism being adapted to urge the plurality of test sensors in a first direction, one of the plurality of test sensors being positioned for extraction from the cartridge, the sliding pusher lid assembly being moveable between a first position and a second position, the sliding pusher lid assembly being adapted to assist in sealing the sensor-dispensing instrument in the second position, the sliding pusher assembly including a flexible pusher tab, the flexible pusher tab extending generally outwardly and generally downwardly from the remainder of the sliding pusher lid assembly; and
an instrument housing forming a dispensing outlet and adapted to receive the cartridge,
wherein the flexible pusher tab is adapted to push one of the plurality of test sensors from the cartridge and at least partially through the dispensing outlet.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the instrument housing further forms a cavity, the cavity being adapted to at least partially receive the sliding pusher lid assembly when the sliding pusher assembly is in a first position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the sliding pusher lid assembly in the second position is adapted to assist in sealing the cartridge opening and the dispensing outlet.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the sliding pusher lid assembly further includes a pusher grip to assist in the user in gripping and sliding the sliding pusher assembly.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the cartridge further includes a reference surface that is adapted to contact the plurality of test sensors one at a time and assist in removing the plurality of test sensors one at a time.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the flexible pusher tab comprises polycarbonate, ABS, nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, or combinations thereof.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein each of the plurality of test sensors forms a second notch, the flexible pusher tab forming a first notch at one end thereof to assist in engages the second notch and removing the plurality of test sensors one at a time.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the cartridge further including a guiding mechanism to assist in positioning the flexible pusher tab and facilitating removing the plurality of test sensors one at a time.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment T6 wherein the guiding mechanism is a cam mechanism.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the sliding pusher lid assembly during the pushing of one of the plurality of test sensors is adapted to engage a bottom surface of one of the test sensors such that the one of the plurality of the test sensors does not touch any of the remaining test sensors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the slider pusher lid assembly further includes a détente to assist in indicating to the user that the slider pusher lid assembly is in a closed position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the mechanical mechanism is a spring.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the analyte is glucose.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the plurality of sensors is electrochemical sensors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the plurality of sensors is optical sensors.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the flexible pusher tab is adapted to clear the seal when the sliding pusher lid assembly is moved to an open position.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the flexible pusher tab is attached to the sliding pusher lid assembly via a flexible support.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment C7 wherein the flexible support comprises metal or polymeric material.
The sensor-dispensing instrument of Alternate Embodiment M6 wherein the sliding pusher lid assembly includes a latching mechanism and a flexible tab to unlock and disengage the sliding pusher lid assembly.
While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. For example, the sensor-dispensing instrument can be used for testing fluids other than blood glucose. In fact, the sensor-dispensing instrument can be used in connection with the analysis of any type of chemistry fluid that can be analyzed by means of a reagent material. Rather, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind | 371c Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US06/01617 | 1/13/2006 | WO | 7/10/2007 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60643801 | Jan 2005 | US | |
| 60684129 | May 2005 | US |
