Systems and methods for analysis of samples, and in certain embodiments, microfluidic sample analyzers configured to receive a cassette containing a sample therein to perform an analysis of the sample are described. The microfluidic sample analyzers may be used to control fluid flow, mixing, and sample analysis in a variety of microfluidic systems such as microfluidic point-of-care diagnostic platforms. Advantageously, the microfluidic sample analyzers may be, in some embodiments, inexpensive, reduced in size compared to conventional bench top systems, and simple to use. Cassettes that can operate with the sample analyzers are also described.

The invention relates to a collection assembly (1) for small amounts of body fluids, comprising a sample container (2) and an extender element (3). The sample container (2) has a base (13) and a container wall (5) with a first container wall section (6) and a second container wall section (7) adjoining same. The second container wall section (7) is formed hollow-conically and projects into the extender element (3). Moreover, a coupling device (25) with a first coupling element (26) and a second coupling element (27) is provided. When the coupling elements (26, 27) are in coupled engagement, the extender element (3) is coupled to the sample container (2) in a positively locked manner in the form of a snap connection establishing the collection assembly (1).

The present disclosure provides a reagent cartridge configured for use in an automated multi-module cell processing environment.

The present disclosure provides a reagent cartridge configured for use in an automated multi-module cell processing environment.

The present invention provides methods and devices for simple, low power, automated processing of biological samples through multiple sample preparation and assay steps. The methods and devices described facilitate the point-of-care implementation of complex diagnostic assays in equipment-free, non-laboratory settings. The invention includes a microfluidic device comprising a reagent-dispensing unit, a sample extraction device and a specimen processing unit.

Devices, systems, and methods for detecting molecules of interest within a collected sample are described herein. In certain embodiments, self-contained sample analysis systems are disclosed, which include a reusable reader component, a disposable cartridge component, and a disposable sample collection component. In some embodiments, the reader component communicates with a remote computing device for the digital transmission of test protocols and test results. In various disclosed embodiments, the systems, components, and methods are configured to identify the presence, absence, and/or quantity of particular nucleic acids, proteins, or other analytes of interest, for example, in order to test for the presence of one or more pathogens or contaminants in a sample.

A dropper dispenser comprising: a fluid reservoir (1) including at least one movable wall (11) so as to put the fluid in the reservoir (1) under pressure; a cannula (24) having an outlet (25) that is designed to form a drop of fluid; and a valve (3) that is arranged between the reservoir (1) and the cannula (24) so as to control firstly the flow of fluid from the reservoir (1) into the cannula (24), and secondly the flow of fluid, and possibly air, from the cannula (24) into the reservoir (1), the valve (3), when subjected to sufficient pressure from the fluid in the reservoir (1), defining an opening (33) having a flow section that is proportional to the force exerted on the movable wall (11) of the reservoir (1); the dropper dispenser being characterized in that it further comprises a valve-opening limiter (27) so as to limit the opening (33) of the valve (3) while fluid is flowing from the reservoir (1) into the cannula (24), so as to create additional head loss that reduces the flow of fluid through the cannula (24).

Methods for detecting target analytes utilizing an array of wells are advantageous for detection of low concentrations of target analytes. Use of an array of wells requires sealing of the wells. The methods provided herein utilize digital microfluidics to seal wells of an array with a fluid that is immiscible with the aqueous liquid present in the wells to prevent evaporation and contamination of the aqueous fluid during analysis of signals from the wells. The disclosed method include generating a biphasic droplet composed of the immiscible fluid and an aqueous fluid. The immiscible fluid present in the biphasic droplet is moved over the array of wells to seal the wells by electrically actuating the aqueous fluid present in the biphasic droplet which in turn pulls the immiscible fluid.

An apparatus for a sterile transfer of a material incudes a second safety device which locks an actuation mechanism in a closed position and unlocks the actuation mechanism when a container flange is correctly connected to a port flange, a third safety device which locks the container flange connected to the port flange when the actuation mechanism leaves the closed position, and a fourth safety device which blocks a return of the actuation mechanism from the open position to the closed position when the port door is open. The second, third and/or fourth safety device comprises two magnetic elements with at least one closed wall being arranged between the two magnetic elements. The two magnetic elements are configured to mutually attract or to mutually repel through the at least one closed wall either in a lock position or in an unlock position of the second, third and/or fourth safety device.

Disclosure relates to a device and a method of using the device for conducting biological and chemical assays on a sample. The device includes two plates. The first plate includes at least a first and a second sample contact areas on its inner surface. Each sample contact area includes spacers having a bottom end fixed on the inner surface and a top end that is distal to the inner surface. The spacers in the first sample contact area differ in height from those in the second sample contact area. The first and second sample contact areas are disposed at different depths along the inner surface of the first plate, so that the top ends of the spacers are aligned on the same flat plane. The method includes depositing the sample onto the sample contact areas, compressing the sample into a thin layer, and analyzing the sample.