Blood testing system and method

Abstract

Some embodiments of a blood coagulation testing system include an analyzer console device and a single-use cartridge component configured to releasably install into the console device. In some embodiments, the blood coagulation testing system can operate as an automated thromboelastometry system that is particularly useful, for example, at a point-of-care site.

Claims

1. A cartridge for insertion into a measuring system, the cartridge comprising: measuring chambers comprising at least (i) a first measuring chamber for holding a first sample, and (ii) a second measuring chamber for holding a second sample; reagent chambers comprising at least (i) a first reagent chamber for holding at least one first reagent, and (ii) a second reagent chamber for holding at least one second reagent: testing chambers comprising at least (i) a first testing chamber for enabling viscoelastic testing to be performed using a first liquid that is based on a mixture of the first sample and the at least one first reagent, and (ii) a second testing chamber for enabling viscoelastic testing to be performed using a second liquid that is based on a mixture of the second sample and the at least one second reagent; a first conduit for moving the first sample from the first measuring chamber to the first reagent chamber to bring the first sample into contact with the at least one first reagent, the first conduit having a different three-dimensional structure than the first reagent chamber; a second conduit for moving the second sample from the second measuring chamber to the second reagent chamber to bring the second sample into contact with the at least one second agent, the second conduit having a different three-dimensional structure than the second reagent chamber; a port in fluid communication with both the first measuring chamber and the second measuring chamber, the port being configured for connection to a source of negative pressure; wherein the cartridge inserts into the measuring system at an orientation; wherein the first measuring chamber comprises a first opening to receive the first sample and a second opening connected to the first conduit, the first opening being at a first part of the first measuring chamber and the second opening being at a second part of the first measuring chamber, the first part of the first measuring chamber being above the second part of the first measuring chamber when the cartridge is at the orientation; and wherein the second measuring chamber comprises a third opening to receive the second sample and a fourth opening connected to the second conduit, the third opening being at a first part of the second measuring chamber and the fourth opening being at a second part of the second measuring chamber, the first part of the second measuring chamber being above the second part of the second measuring chamber when the cartridge is at the orientation.

2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the cartridge is configured to align to a sensor in the measuring system, the sensor (i) for detecting liquid in a first fluid flow path comprising the first measuring chamber, the first reagent chamber, and the first testing chamber, or (ii) detecting liquid in a second fluid flow path comprising the second measuring chamber, the second reagent chamber, and the second testing chamber.

3. The cartridge of claim 2, wherein the sensor comprises an optical sensor.

4. The cartridge of claim 1, further comprising: a third conduit between the first reagent chamber and the first testing chamber to move the first liquid between the first reagent chamber and the first testing chamber; and a fourth conduit between the second reagent chamber and the second testing chamber to move the second liquid between the second reagent chamber and the second testing chamber.

5. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the first conduit is smaller than the first reagent chamber in at least one dimension, and the second conduit is smaller than the second reagent chamber in at least one dimension.

6. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the cartridge comprises pressure ports, including the port, that are selectively controllable to be in fluidic communication with at least one fluid flow path among fluid flow paths comprising a first fluid flow path comprising the first measuring chamber, the first reagent chamber, and the first testing chamber, and a second fluid flow path comprising the second measuring chamber, the second reagent chamber, and the second testing chamber.

7. The cartridge of claim 1, further comprising: a second port in fluid communication with the first measuring chamber, the second port being connectable to a pressure source.

8. The cartridge of claim 7, wherein the pressure source comprises a positive pressure source.

9. The cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a vent port that is controllable to open or to close.

10. A testing system comprising: the cartridge of claim 1; and the measuring system comprising a cartridge port; wherein the cartridge is insertable into the cartridge port in the measuring system at the orientation to enable a first viscoelastic test on the first liquid in the first testing chamber, the first viscoelastic test for measuring a first viscoelastic characteristic of the first liquid, and to enable a second viscoelastic test on the second liquid in the second testing chamber, the second viscoelastic test for measuring a second viscoelastic characteristic of the second liquid.

11. The cartridge of claim 6, wherein at least part of the first fluid flow path is parallel to at least part of the second fluid flow path.

12. The system of claim 10, further comprising: a sensor (i) for detecting for detecting liquid in a first fluid flow path comprising the first measuring chamber, the first reagent chamber, and the first testing chamber, or (i) for detecting liquid in a second fluid flow path comprising the second measuring chamber, the second reagent chamber, and the second testing chamber.

13. The system of claim 10, wherein, at the orientation, the second opening is at a bottom of the first measuring chamber and the fourth opening is at a bottom of the second measuring chamber.

14. The system of claim 10, wherein, at the orientation, the first opening is adjacent to a top of the first measuring chamber and the third opening is adjacent to a top of the second measuring chamber.

15. The system of claim 10, wherein, at the orientation, the first opening of the first measuring chamber is located towards a top of the first measuring chamber and the second opening of the first measuring chamber is located towards a bottom of the first measuring chamber; and wherein, at the orientation, the third opening of the second measuring chamber is located towards a top of the second measuring chamber and the fourth opening of the second measuring chamber is located towards a bottom of the second measuring chamber.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein, at the orientation, the second opening of the first measuring chamber is located at the bottom of the first measuring chamber and the fourth opening of the second measuring chamber is located at the bottom of the second measuring chamber.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein, at the orientation, the first opening of the first measuring chamber is located adjacent to the top of the first measuring chamber and the third opening of the second measuring chamber is located adjacent to the top of the second measuring chamber.

18. The testing system of claim 10, wherein the cartridge comprises fluid flow paths, the fluid flow paths comprising a first fluid flow path comprising the first measuring chamber, the first reagent chamber, and the first testing chamber, and a second fluid flow path comprising the second measuring chamber, the second reagent chamber, and the second testing chamber; and wherein the cartridge further comprises a pressure port and a vent port, the pressure port and the vent port being in fluid communication with a fluid flow path among the fluid flow paths.

19. The testing system of claim 10, wherein the cartridge comprises a vent port that is controllable to open or to close.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

(1) FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, and 3 are perspective illustrations depicting the components and use of an example thromboelastometry system, in accordance with some embodiments.

(2) FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the example cartridge component of the thromboelastometry system of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, and 3.

(3) FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the cartridge component of FIG. 4.

(4) FIG. 6 is a right side partial cutaway view of the cartridge component of FIG. 4.

(5) FIG. 7 is a left side view of the cartridge component of FIG. 4.

(6) FIG. 8A-8H are a series of schematic diagrams depicting operations of the thromboelastometry system of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, and 3, in accordance with some embodiments.

(7) FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of another example thromboelastometry system, in accordance with some embodiments.

(8) FIG. 10A is a top view of the cartridge component of FIG. 4.

(9) FIG. 10B is a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge component of FIG. 10A.

(10) FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram depicting the partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge component of FIG. 10B in conjunction with associated components of an analyzer console of the thromboelastometry system of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, and 3.

(11) FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a thromboelastometry analyzer console of the thromboelastometry system of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, and 3.

(12) FIG. 12 is a block diagram that schematically depicts subsystems of the thromboelastometry analyzer console of the thromboelastometry system of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, and 3.

(13) FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a method of using a thromboelastometry system, in accordance with some embodiments.

(14) FIGS. 14A and 14B are a flowchart of a method for controlling a thromboelastometry system, in accordance with some embodiments.

(15) Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

(16) Referring to FIGS. 1A-3, some embodiments of a blood testing system 100 include an analyzer console 140 and one or more cartridges 120 configured to releasably mate with analyzer console 140. In this embodiment, the blood testing system 100 is a thromboelastometry system that is configured to determine a number of blood coagulation characteristics of a blood sample input into the cartridge 120. For example, the cartridge 120 can be configured as a single-use cartridge that includes a blood sample receiver 122 for mating with a blood sample reservoir 10 (e.g., a vacutainer sample tube supplied by Becton, Dickinson & Company of Franklin Lakes, N.J., or another blood reservoir structure). In some cases, an adapter may be used to couple other types of blood sample reservoirs 10 with the cartridge 120 (e.g., tubing may be used through which blood can be injected into the cartridge 120, and the like). The thromboelastometry system 10 can be used as a whole blood coagulation analysis system that is particularly advantageous at a point-of-care site (e.g., in a surgical theater while a patient is undergoing or preparing for surgery, or the like). Additionally, thromboelastometry system 100 can be used as a whole blood coagulation analysis system in a laboratory setting.

(17) The analyzer console 140 includes a user interface 142 (with touchscreen display in this embodiment) and a main chassis 144. The user interface display 142 can be configured to output one or more graphical results 143 from the blood testing assays performed via the cartridge 120 and console 140 (e.g., one or more plots, such as those sometimes refer to as a TEMogram, numeric data or measurements, or a combination thereof). In some embodiments, the user interface display 142 is rigidly attached to the analyzer console 140. In particular embodiments, the user interface display 142 is pivotable and/or is otherwise positionally adjustable in relation to the main chassis 144. A main power switch 148 can be located at a convenient but protected location on the main chassis 144.

(18) In the depicted embodiment, the touchscreen display 142 is configured to receive user input and to display output information to the user. For example, the user can enter information to the thromboelastometry system 100 by making selections of various soft-buttons that may be displayed on the touchscreen display 142 at times during the beginning, middle, and end of the testing process. In some embodiments, other selections such as, but not limited to, soft keyboard entries can be provided via touchscreen display 142. In some embodiments, data entry can be performed additionally or alternatively by voice entry. In other embodiments, the user interface may include other peripheral devices can be included (e.g., a mouse, a keyboard, an additional display device, and the like) as part of the thromboelastometry system 100. In some embodiments, a computer data network (e.g., intranet, interne, LAN, etc.) may be used to allow for remote devices to receive and/or input information from the system 100. For example, in some embodiments one or more remote displays can be utilized via network connections. In the depicted embodiment, the thromboelastometry system 100 also includes an external barcode reader 146. The external barcode reader 146 can facilitate convenient one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode entry of data such as, but not limited to, blood sample data, user identification, patient identification, normal values, and the like. Alternatively or additionally, the thromboelastometry system 100 can be equipped with a reader configured to read near-field communication tags, RFID tags, or the like.

(19) In the depicted embodiment, the main chassis 144 houses various internal sub-systems (as described further below), includes various electronic connection receptacles (not shown), and includes a cartridge port 150. The various electronic connection receptacles can include network and device connectors such as, but not limited to, one or more USB ports, Ethernet ports (e.g., RJ45), VGA connectors, Sub-D9 connectors (RS232), and the like. Such connection receptacles can be located on the rear of the main chassis 144, or at other convenient locations on the main chassis 144. For example, in some embodiments one or more USB ports may be located on or near the front of the main chassis 144. A USB port, so located, may provide user convenience for recording data onto a memory stick, for example. In some embodiments, the thromboelastometry system 100 is configured to operate using wireless communication modalities such as, but not limited to, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, RF, IR, and the like.

(20) Still referring to FIGS. 1A-3, the cartridge port 150 can be located at a readily accessible location on the main chassis 144. In the depicted embodiment, the cartridge port 150 is located on the front of the main chassis 144 so that it is conveniently accessible by a user in a point-of-care site. The cartridge port 150 defines an opening and internal space that is shaped complementarily to the outer dimensions of the single-use cartridge 120. To insert the single-use cartridge 120 into the cartridge port 150, the user can grasp the end of the cartridge 120 that includes the blood sample receiver 122 and slidingly insert the opposite end (leading end) into the cartridge port 150. The sliding insertion can continue until a hard-stop is reached that defines the fully inserted position. In the fully inserted position, a trailing end portion (including the blood sample receiver 122 in this embodiment) of the single-use cartridge 120 remains exterior to the main chassis 144. The portion of the cartridge 120 that is received into the cartridge port 150 can include outer surface features (such as a tapered angle a rear end portion shown in FIG. 1B) that mate with at least one internal interface element inside the console 140 to ensure correct positioning of the cartridge 120. As such, at least the blood sample receiver 122 remains exterior to the main chassis 144 throughout the duration of the blood sample testing. In this configuration, the blood sample receiver 122 serves as a blood sample well that is accessible so that the blood sample reservoir 10 can be inserted into the receiver 122 while the single-use cartridge 120 is mated with the console 140 in the fully inserted position. In some embodiments, the cartridge port 150 and the main chassis 144 are configured so that the exposed portion of the cartridge 120 is protected from inadvertent contact. As described further below, an internal sensor (e.g., a microswitch, an optical sensor, etc.) can detect when the single-use cartridge 120 has been fully inserted into the main chassis 144.

(21) When the analyzer console 140 has detected that the cartridge 120 has been fully inserted, in some embodiments the analyzer console 140 initiates one or more of the following actions. An internal cartridge clamping mechanism that includes positioning pins can be activated to accurately position and releasably retain the single-use cartridge 120 in the fully inserted position. One or more cartridge heating elements can be nalactivated to warm the cartridge 120. The temperature of the cartridge 120 can be monitored. A barcode on the leading end of the cartridge 120 can be read and the barcode data can be stored in memory of the analyzer console 140. One or more blood detection sensors can inspect the cartridge 120 for the presence of blood (which should not be present at this time). The rotational thromboelastometry measuring sub-system can be engaged with the cartridge 120 and, optionally, rotation of the rotary thromboelastometry measuring sub-system can begin (without the presence of blood). The cartridge 120 can be leak tested using vacuum or air pressure delivered by the analyzer console 140. For example, a pressure/vacuum decay test can be performed. In some embodiments, other actions can be additionally or alternatively activated when the analyzer console 140 has detected that the cartridge 120 has been fully inserted. After the completion of such actions, in some embodiments an indication of the results of the actions may be displayed on the touchscreen display 142 (e.g., pass or fail). If the analyzer console 140 determines that the actions were completed successfully, a prompt can be provided on the touchscreen display 142 that informs the user that the thromboelastometry system 100 is ready to receive the blood sample reservoir 10.

(22) Briefly, in some embodiments a user can operate the depicted thromboelastometry system 100 embodiment as follows. First, the user can insert the single-use cartridge 120 into the cartridge port 150 so that the cartridge 120 is placed into the fully inserted position. Completion of that step will automatically initiate a series of operations by the thromboelastometry system 100 as described below. Upon successful completion of such operations, a notification that the blood collection tube 10 can be inserted into the sample well 122 will be displayed on the touchscreen display 142. After the user has mated the blood collection tube 10 into the sample well 122, the user initiates testing by pressing a “start” button (or the like) on the touchscreen display 142. At least the blood measuring, reagent mixing, and thromboelastometry testing is performed automatically by the system 100 thereafter (e.g., without requiring manual intervention from the user in this embodiment). When the testing is completed, the results are displayed on the touchscreen display 142 in the form of qualitative graphical representations and quantitative parameters (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 1A). Also, when the testing is completed, the cartridge 120 can be removed from the console 140 and discarded (e.g., the cartridge 120 in such embodiments is not reusable in that the reagent beads (described below) are no longer present in the cartridge and the measurement chambers contain the clotted blood sample portions).

(23) Alternately, in some embodiments the blood collection tube 10 can be inserted into the sample well 122 of the cartridge 120 prior to insertion of the cartridge 120 into the cartridge port 150. In such circumstances, the blood from the collection tube 10 may not advance to the measurement chambers (described below) of the blood cartridge 120 until after the console 140 acts upon the cartridge 120 (again, as described below). With the blood collection tube 10 being pre-coupled with the cartridge 120, the combination of the blood collection tube 10 and the cartridge 120 can then be inserted into the cartridge port 150.

(24) Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, the depicted embodiment of the single-use cartridge 120 includes a main body 124, a right cover 126, a left cover 128, and five pins 138a, 138b, 138c, 138d, and 138e. The right cover 126 is affixed to right side of the main body 124, and the left cover 128 is affixed to the left side of the main body 124. As such, the right and left covers 126 and 128 enclose cavities and flow channels of the main body 124 to define blood flow paths as described further below. The aforementioned sample well 122 is part of the main body 124. However, other constructions of the single use cartridge 120 are also envisioned.

(25) In some embodiments, the main body 124, right cover 126, left cover 128, and the pins 138a, 138b, 138c, 138d, and 138e are made by injection molding. After molding, the right and left covers 126 and 128 can be affixed to the main body 124 using various techniques including, but not limited to, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, solvent bonding, adhesive bonding, UV curable adhesive bonding, and the like. Various polymeric materials can be used to construct the main body 124, right cover 126, left cover 128, and pins 138a-e. For example, such polymeric materials can include, but are not limited to acrylic, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene, polypropylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene, polypropylene, and the like, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the materials are used to construct the main body 124, right cover 126, left cover 128, and pins 138a-e comprise an acrylic-based multi-polymer compound. In some embodiments, the main body 124, right cover 126, and left cover 128 are essentially transparent, or at least translucent. Therefore, in FIG. 4, features of the main body 124 are visible even though the right cover 126 is attached thereto.

(26) In some embodiments, overmolding, such as by insert molding or multi-shot molding techniques, may be used to construct some aspects of the main body 124, right cover 126, and/or left cover 128. For example, elastomeric valve elements (as described further below) may be overmolded in the left cover 128. Further, in some embodiments secondary operations may be performed to the cartridge 120. For example, one or more needles 123a-b (refer to FIG. 6) for piercing a blood collection tube may be installed within the sample well 122 using secondary operations.

(27) The single-use cartridge 120 also includes the five pins 138a, 138b, 138c, 138d, and 138e. The pins 138a-e are individual component parts (e.g., refer to FIG. 10B) that are retained within openings of the main body 124 (e.g., within testing chambers 136a-e (sometimes referred to as “cups”) as described further below in connection with FIGS. 8A-10B). Tabs 129, located on the right and left covers 126 and 128, mechanically retain the pins 138a-e in the main body 124. However, the pins 138a-e are free to move within the confines of the main body 124 to a limited extent. For example, the pins 139a-e are free to rotate uninhibitedly within the main body 124 and to translate vertically by few millimeters. This configuration of the pins 138a-e in relation to the other components of the cartridge 120 can be created as follows. Prior to affixing the right and left covers 126 and 128 to the main body 124, the pins 138a-e can be placed within their respective locations in the main body 124 as shown in FIG. 5. With the pins 138a-e positioned in the main body 124, the right and left covers 126 and 128 can then be affixed to the main body 124. In another example, the right and left covers 126 and 128 are affixed to the main body 124 and thereafter the pins 138a-e are pushed into the main body 122 past the tabs 129. The tabs 129 of the right and left covers 126 and 128 will block the pins 138a-e from falling out of the main body 122, even if the cartridge 120 is turned upside down.

(28) In some embodiments, the main body 124 includes a barcode location 125. The barcode location 125 can be used as a location at which to adhere a barcode label, or to print a barcode. The barcode location 125 is on the leading end of the cartridge 120 (in relation to the direction of insertion of the cartridge 120 into the analyzer console 140 as shown in FIGS. 1-3).

(29) In the depicted embodiment, the right cover 126 includes blood detection locations 127a and 127b. As will be described further below, the blood detection locations 127a and 127b are designated locations on the cartridge 120 at which sensors of the analyzer console 140 interface with the cartridge 120. The sensors inspect for the presence of blood within the cartridge 120 at the blood detection locations 127a and 127b. In some embodiments, the sensors are optical sensors (e.g., infrared sensors) and the blood detection locations 127a and 127b are polished areas that have enhanced transparency and optical clarity. As such, the right cover 126 is configured so that the optical sensors of the analyzer console 140 can readily detect the presence or absence of blood at the blood detection locations 127a and 127b.

(30) Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, broadly speaking the single-use cartridge 120 is configured to: (i) extract blood from a blood collection tube (e.g., blood collection tube 10 of FIGS. 1-3) and measure a precise volume of the extracted blood, (ii) mix a precise amount of blood with reagents, and (iii) deliver the mixture to multiple cup and pin locations of the cartridge 120 where thromboelastometry testing is performed. These steps will be described in more detail below.

(31) In the depicted embodiment, the single-use cartridge 120 includes five individual blood flow channels 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, and 130e. Alternately, in some embodiments the cartridge includes a single individual blood flow channel, or two individual blood flow channels, or three individual blood flow channels, or four individual blood flow channels, or six individual blood flow channels, or more than six individual blood flow channels. Each channel 130a-e includes: (i) a measuring chamber, (ii) a mixing chamber containing reagent(s) and a mixing element, and (iii) a blood coagulation testing chamber (e.g., in this embodiment a cup having a movable probe/pin therein). For example, the channel 130a includes a measuring chamber 132a, a mixing chamber 134a, and a testing chamber 136a (refer to the example of the testing chamber being depicted in detail in FIGS. 10A-B). Similarly, the channel 130b includes a measuring chamber 132b, a mixing chamber 134b, and a testing chamber 136b; the channel 130c includes a measuring chamber 132c, a mixing chamber 134c, and a testing chamber 136a; the channel 130d includes a measuring chamber 132d, a mixing chamber 134d, and a testing chamber 136d; and the channel 130e includes a measuring chamber 132e, a mixing chamber 134e, and a testing chamber 136e.

(32) In some embodiments, the sample well 122 includes needles 123a and 123b that are configured to pierce a septum of a blood collection tube when the blood collection tube is inserted into the sample well 122. The needle 123a is in fluid communication with the channels 130a-e, while the needle 123b is a vent that facilitates the ready flow of blood out of the blood collection tube.

(33) In the depicted embodiment, the fluid flow paths from the needle 123a to the channels 130a-e are as follows. The needle 123a is confluent with the measuring chamber 132a. The measuring chamber 132a is confluent with the measuring chamber 132b. The measuring chamber 132b is confluent with the measuring chamber 132c. The measuring chamber 132c is confluent with the measuring chamber 132d. The measuring chamber 132d is confluent with the measuring chamber 132e. Accordingly, blood can flow out of the blood collection tube through the needle 123a to the measuring chamber 132a; from the measuring chamber 132a to the measuring chamber 132b; from the measuring chamber 132b to the measuring chamber 132c; from the measuring chamber 132c to the measuring chamber 132d; and from the measuring chamber 132d to the measuring chamber 132e. The measuring chambers 132a-e may also be referred to as metering chambers 132a-e. Each measuring chamber 132a-e has an inlet port and an outlet port. The inlet ports are located near the top of the measuring chambers 132a-e. For example, measuring chamber inlet port 132ai is located near the top of the measuring chamber 132a. This configuration can be advantageous if the blood contains gaseous bubbles, because such gas may be allowed to escape from the blood as the blood enters the measuring chambers 132a-e. In addition, this configuration may advantageously minimize fluid flow turbulence as the blood flows into the measuring chambers 132a-e, thereby reducing the likelihood of damaging the blood cells.

(34) The outlet ports are located at the bottom of the measuring chambers. For example, measuring chamber outlet port 132ao is located at the bottom of the measuring chamber 132a. This configuration can help facilitate the complete filling of the measuring chambers 132a-e with blood. As such, a precise volume of blood is contained within the measuring chambers 132a-e.

(35) From the foregoing description of the fluid flow paths from the needle 123a to the measuring chambers 132a-e, and from the foregoing description of the location of the measuring chamber outlet ports, it should be understood that the measuring chambers 132a-e will be filled with blood in a sequential manner. That is, first measuring chamber 132a will be filled with blood; then blood from measuring chamber 132a will flow to measuring chamber 132b; then measuring chamber 132b will be filled with blood; then blood from measuring chamber 132b will flow to measuring chamber 132c; then measuring chamber 132c will be filled with blood; then blood from measuring chamber 132c will flow to measuring chamber 132d; then measuring chamber 132d will be filled with blood; then blood from measuring chamber 132d will flow to measuring chamber 132e; then measuring chamber 132e will be filled with blood.

(36) After the measuring chamber 132e is filled with blood, then blood from measuring chamber 132e will flow to an overflow chamber 139. The blood flowing from measuring chamber 132e will enter the overflow chamber 139 at an overflow chamber inlet port 139i. As will be described further below, the overflow chamber 139 serves to ensure that the measuring chamber 132e becomes completely full, while preventing blood from exiting the cartridge 120 and flowing into a vacuum source that is used to draw the blood into the measuring chambers 132a-e as described above. The vacuum source is fluidly connected to the overflow chamber 139 at an overflow chamber outlet port 139o. When a negative pressure (with respect to ambient pressure) from the vacuum source is applied at the overflow chamber outlet port 139o, blood from a blood collection tube that is coupled with needle 123a will flow into the cartridge 120 to fill all the measuring chambers 132a-e. Some blood will also exit the measuring chamber 132e and flow towards the overflow chamber 139.

(37) As described further below, various valves and vents are interspersed within the fluid flow paths so that the blood flow can be controlled by the analyzer console according to predefined schemes. In addition, the aforementioned blood detection locations 127a and 127b (refer to FIG. 5) are designated locations on the cartridge 120 at which sensors of the analyzer console 140 interface with the cartridge 120. The sensors inspect for the presence of blood within the cartridge 120 at the blood detection locations 127a and 127b. The blood sensor location 127a is on the fluid flow path between the needle 123a and the measuring chamber 132a. When the analyzer console detects blood at blood sensor location 127a, the analyzer console 140 determines that blood has been drawn into the cartridge 120. The blood sensor location 127b is on the fluid flow path between the measuring chamber 132e and the overflow chamber 139. When the analyzer console detects blood at blood sensor location 127b, the analyzer console 140 determines that blood has been drawn into and filled all the measuring chambers 132a-e. Further, when the analyzer console 140 detects blood at blood sensor location 127b, the analyzer console 140 may cease further application of negative pressure at the overflow chamber outlet port 139o. In other words, by detecting blood at blood sensor location 127b, the analyzer console 140 can determine that the application of vacuum has successfully filled all the measuring chambers 132a-e and that the application of vacuum can be ceased. Optionally, the cartridge 120 may be equipped with a blood temperature sensor at or near the location of blood sensor location 127b so as to verify the blood sample is at a predetermined target temperature.

(38) As described above, each individual channel 130a-e has a measuring chamber 132a-e respectively. In some embodiments, the fluid flow paths within the individual channels 130a-e are as follows. From the measuring chambers 132a-e, the blood can flow to the respective mixing chambers 134a-e. For example, the blood from measuring chamber 132a can flow to the mixing chamber 134a. Similarly, the blood from measuring chamber 132b can flow to the mixing chamber 134b; the blood from measuring chamber 132c can flow to the mixing chamber 134c; the blood from measuring chamber 132d can flow to the mixing chamber 134d; and the blood from measuring chamber 132e can flow to the mixing chamber 134e. From the mixing chambers 132a-e (after completion of the mixing), the blood can flow to the respective testing chambers 136a-e (having a corresponding probe/pin 138a-e therein, refer below to FIGS. 10A-b). For example, the blood from mixing chamber 134a can flow to the testing chamber 136a. Similarly, the blood from mixing chamber 134b can flow to the testing chamber 136b; the blood from mixing chamber 134c can flow to the testing chamber 136c; the blood from mixing chamber 134d can flow to the testing chamber 136d; and the blood from mixing chamber 134e can flow to the testing chamber 136e. Various valves and vents that are controllable by the analyzer console 140 are interspersed within the fluid flow paths of the individual channels 130a-e. Using such valves and vents, the blood flow within the individual channels 130a-e can be controlled by the analyzer console 140 in accordance with predefined schemes.

(39) Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, additional features of the cartridge 120 will now be described. In FIG. 6, a side view of particular chambers of the cartridge 120 (measuring chambers 132a-e, reagent mixing chambers 134a-e, and blood coagulation testing chambers 136a-e) is provided. In FIG. 7, a left side view of cartridge 120 and individual channels 130a-e is provided. In this view there is visibility of testing chamber inlet ports 136ai, 136bi, 136ci, 136di, and 136ei for testing chambers 136a-e respectively. The inlet ports 136ai-ei are located near the top of the testing chambers 136a-e, for example, along a side wall of the chamber 136a-e and at a height above the distal head of the pin 138a-e that interacts with the blood sample but below the proximal end of the pin 138a-e (refer to FIG. 10B). This configuration can be advantageous if the blood contains gaseous bubbles, because such gas may be allowed to escape from the blood as the blood enters the cups 136a-e. In addition, this configuration may advantageously minimize fluid flow turbulence as the blood flows into the testing chambers 136a-e.

(40) In the depicted embodiment, the cartridge 120 includes two locator pin receptacles 140a and 140b. The locator pin receptacles 140a and 140b are used to mate with locator pins of the analyzer console 140 (as described further below). In this manner, the cartridge 120 can be accurately positioned in relation to the analyzer console 140.

(41) The cartridge 120 also includes a vacuum application port 162. When a source of vacuum is applied at the vacuum application port 162, and when the vents and valves of the cartridge 120 are in the proper configuration, blood can be drawn into the measuring chambers 132a-e as described above, and as described further below.

(42) The cartridge 120 also includes a pressure application port 164. When a source of pressure is applied at the pressure application port 164, and when the vents and valves of the cartridge 120 are in the proper configuration, blood can be forced to flow from the measuring chambers 132a-e into the mixing chambers 134a-e, and subsequently from the mixing chambers 134a-e into the testing chambers 136a-e as described above, and as described further below.

(43) In the depicted embodiment, the cartridge 120 also includes vents 166a, 166b, 166c, 166d, and 166e. Other cartridge embodiments may include fewer or more vents. The vents 166a-e are confluent with the mixing chambers 134a-e respectively. Accordingly, when the vents 166a-e are open to allow airflow therethrough, air from the mixing chambers 134a-e can be readily displaced from the mixing chambers 134a-e as blood flows into the mixing chambers 134a-e. Conversely, when the vents 166a-e are closed to prevent airflow therethrough, blood is inhibited from flowing into the mixing chambers 134a-e because the air within the mixing chambers 134a-e is not allowed to be displaced therefrom. The vents 166a-e can be individually opened and closed by the analyzer console 140 in accordance with predefined schemes as described further below. Accordingly, blood flow into the mixing chambers 134a-e can be controlled as desired.

(44) In the depicted embodiment, the cartridge 120 also includes valves 168, 170, 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, and 160e. Other cartridge embodiments may include fewer or more valves. The valves 168, 170, and 160a-e are located within fluid flow paths of the cartridge 120. Accordingly, the valves 168, 170, and 160a-e can be actuated (opened or closed) by the analyzer console 140 to allow or to prevent fluid flow through the fluid flow paths in which the valves 168, 170, and 160a-e are respectively located. For example, the valve 168 is located in the fluid flow path between the needle 123a and the measuring chamber 132a. Accordingly, when the valve 168 is open blood can flow from the needle 123a to the measuring chamber 132a, and when the valve 168 is closed blood cannot flow from the needle 123a to the measuring chamber 132a.

(45) The valve 170 is located in the fluid flow path between the measuring chamber 132e and the overflow chamber 139. Accordingly, when the valve 170 is open blood can flow from the measuring chamber 132e to the overflow chamber 139, and when the valve 170 is closed blood cannot flow from the measuring chamber 132e to the overflow chamber 139.

(46) The valves 160a-e are located in the fluid flow paths between the mixing chambers 134a-e and the testing chambers 136a-e respectively. Accordingly, when the valves 160a-e are open blood can flow from the mixing chambers 134a-e to the testing chambers 136a-e respectively, and when the valves 160a-e are closed blood cannot flow from the mixing chambers 134a-e to the testing chambers 136a-e.

(47) As will be described further below, in some embodiments the valves 160a-e can be individually actuated by pins that are translated towards and away from the valves 160a-e. To close the valves 160a-e, the pins can engage with and distend elastomer members of the valves 160a-e so that the elastomer member makes contact with a valve seat of the valves 160a-e. When such pins are retracted away from the elastomer members of the valves 160a-e, the elastomer members will rebound such that the elastomer member is no longer distended and then the valve is opened. The pins can be translated by solenoids in some embodiments.

(48) Referring to FIG. 6 in more detail, some embodiments of the mixing chambers 134a-e contain: (i) one or more dissolvable reagent beads 180, (ii) multiple retaining elements 182, and (iii) a mixing element 184. The one or more reagent beads 180 are disposed within and retained within the confines of the multiple retaining elements 182. The mixing elements 184 are disposed in the bottom portions of the mixing chambers 134a-e, and are free to move horizontally across the bottom portions of the mixing chambers 134a-e. The multiple retaining elements 182 separate the reagent beads 180 from the mixing element 184, and prevent the mixing element 184 from migrating upward away from the bottom portions of the mixing chambers 134a-e. Preferably, the retaining elements 182 extend into each mixing chamber 134a-e so as to maintain a predetermined vertical position of each of the reagent beads 180 within the mixing chamber (e.g., a vertical position below the height of the blood portion passed into the mixing chamber 134a-e), thereby ensuring that each of the beads 180 will be submerged when the predetermined amount of blood is directed into the respective mixing chamber 134a-e. Also, in some embodiments, the multiple retaining elements 182 in each mixing chamber 134a-e maintain each of the reagent beads 180 in the respective mixing chamber 134a-e separate from one another. In such embodiments, each of the reagent beads 180 is not contacted by other beads 180 in the respective mixing chamber 134a-e, is not contacted by the mixing element 184 in the respective mixing chamber 134a-e, and is maintained at a vertical height within the respective mixing chamber 134a-e below the height of the blood portion transported into the respective mixing chamber 134a-e.

(49) In the depicted embodiment, the one or more dissolvable reagent beads 180 are spherical and are of two different sizes (e.g., about 2 mm diameter and about 3 mm diameter). However, the use of other shapes and/or sizes of reagent beads 180 is also envisioned. In some embodiments, the reagent beads 180 are lyophilized materials, but other forms of materials are also envisioned. The reagent beads 180 can comprise materials such as, but not limited to, CaCl.sub.2, ellagic acid/phospholipids, tissue factor, heparinase, polybrene, cytochalasin D, tranexamic acid, and the like, and combinations thereof. The reagent beads 180 are dissolvable in blood. For example, in this particular embodiment, each of the five mixing chambers 134a-e is configured to mix a predetermined volume of blood (as defined by the respective measurement chamber 132a-e) with a different reagent composition (from the one or more reagent beads 180 therein) for purposes of performing five different assays. In this example, the first mixing chamber 134e may include multiple reagent beads 180 the provide CaCl.sub.2 and ellagic acid/phospholipids for mixing with the predefined volume of blood (from the corresponding measuring chamber 132e) so that the first sample portion can be used in a first type of assay. Also in this example, the second mixing chamber 134d may include multiple reagent beads 180 the provide CaCl.sub.2, ellagic acid/phospholipids, and heparinase for mixing with the predefined volume of blood (from the corresponding measuring chamber 132d) so that the second sample portion can be used in a second type of assay. Further, in this example, the third mixing chamber 134c may include multiple reagent beads 180 the provide CaCl.sub.2, tissue factor, and polybrene for mixing with the predefined volume of blood (from the corresponding measuring chamber 132c) so that the third sample portion can be used in a third type of assay. Also in this example, the fourth mixing chamber 134b may include multiple reagent beads 180 the provide CaCl.sub.2, tissue factor, polybrene, and cytochalasin D for mixing with the predefined volume of blood (from the corresponding measuring chamber 132b) so that the fourth sample portion can be used in a fourth type of assay. Lastly, in this example, the fifth mixing chamber 134a may include multiple reagent beads 180 the provide CaCl.sub.2, tissue factor, polybrene, and tranexamic acid for mixing with the predefined volume of blood (from the corresponding measuring chamber 132a) so that the fifth sample portion can be used in a fifth type of assay.

(50) In some embodiments, the reagent bead 180 carrying the CaCl.sub.2 reagent is separated from the rest of the beads 180 in the respective mixing chamber 134a-e so as to first allow mixing and then activation/clotting of the a citrated blood sample. Such separation of the reagent bead 180 carrying the CaCl.sub.2 reagent may be achieved using the retaining elements 182 (as described above). Alternatively, such separation can be achieved by retaining the reagent bead 180 carrying the CaCl.sub.2 reagent in a separate channel or separate mixing chamber that is separated from other beads 180 in the respective chamber 134a-e (such that the blood portion reaches the CaCl.sub.2 reagent after the blood portion mixes with other beads 180 within the respective mixing chamber 134a-e). Alternatively, such separation can be achieved by positioning a CaCl.sub.2 reagent liquid or a dried-film CaCl.sub.2 reagent in a separate channel so that the blood portion reaches the CaCl.sub.2 reagent after the blood portion mixes with other beads 180 in the respective mixing chamber 134a-e. Alternatively, the reagent bead 180 carrying the CaCl.sub.2 reagent can be coated with an extra layer (and then retained by the retained by the retaining elements 182 as described above) so that the blood portion begins to dissolve the reagent bead 180 carrying the CaCl.sub.2 reagent after the blood portion previously mixes with other beads 180 within the respective mixing chamber 134a-e.

(51) The mixing element 184, comprises a ferromagnetic material including, but not limited to, nickel, cobalt, chromium (IV) oxide, gadolinium, permalloy, and alnico (an aluminum-nickel-cobalt alloy) and the like, and combinations thereof. In the depicted embodiment, the mixing element 184 is spherical and is solid. In other embodiments, the mixing element 184 may have a shape such as, but not limited to, cubical, conical, cylindrical, fan-shaped, elongated, prismatic, and the like, as well as irregular shapes. In some embodiments, the mixing element 184 may include one or more surface features such as protrusions, indentations, or holes, and the like.

(52) As will be described further below, the mixing elements 184 are movable within the mixing chambers 134a-e in response to movement of magnets with which the mixing elements 184 magnetically couple. The magnets that the mixing elements 184 magnetically couple with are contained within the analyzer console 140. The movement of the mixing elements 184 encourages the reagent beads 180 to dissolve in the blood contained within the mixing chambers 134a-e.

(53) Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8H schematically depict an example fluidic control process 200 that can be used with the thromboelastometry systems provided herein. The process 200 begins with blood contained only within the blood collection tube 10, and ends with blood/reagent mixtures contained in cups 136a-e that are configured for rotary thromboelastometry. It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the cartridge 120 (refer to FIGS. 1-7) that is used to implement the fluidic control process 200 is heated (e.g., to about 37° C.) prior to having any blood therein.

(54) Referring to FIG. 8A, the example fluidic control process 200 includes the blood collection tube 10, the measuring chambers 132a-e, the mixing chambers 134a-e, and cups 136a-e, the overflow chamber 139, the blood detection locations 127a and 127b, the vacuum application port 162, the pressure application port 164, the vents 166a-e, the valves 168, 170, and 160a-e. In the depicted configuration, valve 168 is closed, thereby retaining the blood substantially within the blood collection tube 10.

(55) While the example fluidic control process 200 includes five blood flow channels (each comprising a measuring chamber 132a-e, a mixing chamber 134a-e, and a cup 136a-e respectively), it should be understood that having five blood flow channels is not required in all embodiments. For example, in some embodiments only a single blood flow channel is included. Alternately, two blood flow channels are included, or three blood flow channels are included, or four blood flow channels are included, or six blood flow channels are included, or more than six blood flow channels are included.

(56) Referring to FIG. 8B, the measuring chambers 132a-e are filled with blood, and a small amount of blood is contained within the overflow chamber 139. To arrive at this state, the following changes were made (in comparison to FIG. 8A) and/or the following conditions existed: (i) the valves 168 and 170 were opened, (ii) the valves 160a-e were closed, (iii) the vents 166a-e were closed, (iv) a negative pressure was applied to the vacuum application port 162, and (v) the pressure application port 164 was unpressurized. Accordingly, the blood flowed: (i) out of the blood collection tube 10, (ii) through the valve 168, (iii) through the blood detection location 127a, (iv) into and filling the measuring chamber 132a, (v) into and filling the measuring chamber 132b, (vi) into and filling the measuring chamber 132c, (vii) into and filling the measuring chamber 132d, (viii) into and filling the measuring chamber 132e, (ix) through blood detection location 127b, (x) through valve 170, and (xi) into the overflow chamber 139. When blood was detected in the blood detection location 127b, the application of the negative pressure was discontinued—thereby stopping further blood flow.

(57) Referring to FIG. 8C, the measuring chambers 132a-d are still filled with blood, but the blood from the measuring chamber 132e has transferred to the mixing chamber 134e. To arrive at this state, the following changes were made (in comparison to FIG. 8B) and/or the following conditions existed: (i) the valves 168 and 170 were closed, (ii) the valves 160a-e remained closed, (iii) the vents 166a-d remained closed, (iv) the vent 166e was opened, and (v) a source of air pressure was applied to the pressure application port 164. Accordingly, the blood flowed: (i) out of the measuring chamber 132e, and (ii) into the mixing chamber 134e. Because the vents 166a-d and the valves 160a-d remained closed, the blood in the measuring chambers 132a-d did not flow into the mixing chambers 134a-d. With blood in the mixing chamber 134e, the mixing element in mixing chamber 134e can move and agitate the blood to facilitate the dissolving of the reagent beads therein.

(58) Referring to FIG. 8D, the measuring chambers 132a-d are still filled with blood, and the blood/reagent mixture that was in the mixing chamber 134e (refer to FIG. 8C) has transferred to the cup 136e. To arrive at this state, the following changes were made (in comparison to FIG. 8C) and/or the following conditions existed: (i) the valves 168 and 170 remained closed, (ii) the valve 160e was opened, (iii) the valves 160a-d remained closed, (iv) the vent 166e was closed (v) the vents 166a-d remained closed, and (vi) a source of air pressure was applied to the pressure application port 164. Accordingly, the blood/reagent mixture flowed: (i) out of the mixing chamber 134e, and (ii) into the cup 136e. Because the vents 166a-d and the valves 160a-d remained closed, the blood did not flow from the measuring chambers 132a-d towards the mixing chambers 134a-d. With the blood/reagent mixture located in the cup 136e, rotary thromboelastometry can begin in the cup 136e.

(59) Referring to FIG. 8E, the measuring chambers 132a-c are still filled with blood, the cup 136e is still filled with blood/reagent mixture, and the blood that was in the measuring chamber 132d (refer to FIG. 8D) has transferred to the mixing chamber 134d. To arrive at this state, the following changes were made (in comparison to FIG. 8D) and/or the following conditions existed: (i) the valves 168 and 170 remained closed, (ii) the valve 160e was closed, (iii) the valves 160a-d remained closed, (iv) the vent 166d was opened (v) the vents 166a-c and 166e remained closed, and (vi) a source of air pressure was applied to the pressure application port 164. Accordingly, the blood flowed: (i) out of the measuring chamber 132d, and (ii) into the mixing chamber 134d. Because the vents 166a-c and because the valves 160a-c remained closed, the blood did not flow from the measuring chambers 132a-c towards the mixing chambers 134a-c. With blood in the mixing chamber 134d, the mixing element in mixing chamber 134d can agitate the blood to facilitate the dissolving of the reagent beads therein.

(60) Referring to FIG. 8F, the measuring chambers 132a-c are still filled with blood, the cup 136e is still filled with blood/reagent mixture, and the blood/reagent mixture that was in the mixing chamber 134d (refer to FIG. 8E) has transferred to the cup 136d. To arrive at this state, the following changes were made (in comparison to FIG. 8E) and/or the following conditions existed: (i) the valves 168 and 170 remained closed, (ii) the valve 160d was opened, (iii) the valves 160a-c and 160e remained closed, (iv) the vent 166d was closed (v) the vents 166a-c and 166e remained closed, and (vi) a source of air pressure was applied to the pressure application port 164. Accordingly, the blood/reagent mixture flowed: (i) out of the mixing chamber 134d, and (ii) into the cup 136d. Because the vents 166a-c and the valves 160a-c remained closed, the blood did not flow from the measuring chambers 132a-c towards the mixing chambers 134a-c. With the blood/reagent mixture located in the cup 136d, rotary thromboelastometry can begin in cup 136d.

(61) Referring to FIG. 8G the measuring chambers 132a-b are still filled with blood, the cups 136d-e are still filled with blood/reagent mixture, and the blood that was in the measuring chamber 132c (refer to FIG. 8F) has transferred to the mixing chamber 134c. To arrive at this state, the following changes were made (in comparison to FIG. 8F) and/or the following conditions existed: (i) the valves 168 and 170 remained closed, (ii) the valve 160d was closed, (iii) the valves 160a-c and 160e remained closed, (iv) the vent 166c was opened (iv) the vents 166a-b and 166d-e remained closed, and (v) a source of air pressure was applied to the pressure application port 164. Accordingly, the blood flowed: (i) out of the measuring chamber 132c, and (ii) into the mixing chamber 134c. Because the vents 166a-b and because the valves 160a-b remained closed, the blood did not flow from the measuring chambers 132a-b towards the mixing chambers 134a-b. With blood in the mixing chamber 134c, the mixing element in mixing chamber 134c can agitate the blood to facilitate the dissolving of the reagent beads therein.

(62) Referring to FIG. 8H, the completion of the process 200 is depicted. That is, the cups 136a-c all contain blood/reagent mixtures and rotary thromboelastometry can be taking place in the cups 136a-e. This state can be attained in accordance with the method of actuating the valves 168, 170, and 160a-e, and the vents 166a-e, in conjunction with applying vacuum to the vacuum application port 162 or pressure to the pressure application port 164 as described above.

(63) Referring to FIG. 9, in some alternative embodiments, one or more of the individual blood flow channels or paths can include multiple mixing chambers that are arranged in series. For example, the example fluidic control process 280 includes five blood flow channels (similar to the number of channels in the embodiment of FIGS. 8A-H), but each of the channels include two mixing chambers that are arranged in series (rather than a single mixing chamber for each respective mixing chamber like the embodiment of FIGS. 8A-H). That is, mixing chambers 137a and 137f are arranged in series between the measurement chamber 132a and the cup 136a; mixing chambers 137b and 137g are arranged in series between the measurement chamber 132b and the cup 136b; mixing chambers 137c and 137h are arranged in series between the measurement chamber 132c and the cup 136c; mixing chambers 137d and 137i are arranged in series between the measurement chamber 132d and the cup 136d; and mixing chambers 137e and 137j are arranged in series between the measurement chamber 132e and the cup 136e.

(64) In some embodiments, the reagent bead carrying the CaCl.sub.2 reagent is separated from the other the reagent beads by locating the CaCl.sub.2 reagent in the second of the two mixing chambers that are arranged in series. In that manner, the serial mixing chambers can allow the blood sample to be mixed with reagents and subsequently, at a controlled point in time, activation/clotting of the blood sample can be initiated.

(65) While the example fluidic control process 280 includes five blood flow channels that each include two mixing chambers that are arranged in series, it should be understood that such a configuration is not required in all embodiments. For example, in some embodiments only a single blood flow channel that includes two mixing chambers that are arranged in series is included in a cartridge. Such a single blood flow channel with two mixing chambers may be the only blood flow channel in the cartridge, or may be combined in a cartridge with one or more other blood flow channels that include a single mixing chamber. It should be understood that all combinations and permutations of number of blood flow channels and mixing chambers are included within the scope of this disclosure.

(66) Turning now to the blood coagulation testing chambers 136a-e in more detail, the chambers 136a-e can be configured to provide viscoelastic testing on the blood sample portion drawn into each chamber. Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, the pins 138a-e are located in the cartridge 120. A representative example showing the pin 138b located in the cup 136b illustrates that a clearance space exists between the outer diameter of the pin 138b and the inner diameter of the cup 136b. A blood/reagent mixture will at least partially fill the clearance space when rotary thromboelastometry is being performed therein. The pin 138b has a shoulder 138bs. The clearance space between the outer diameter of the pin 138b and the inner diameter of the cup 136b is less in the areas below the shoulder 138bs than in the areas above the shoulder 138bs. The areas between the outer diameter of the pin 138b and the inner diameter of the cup 136b that are below the shoulder 138bs are the areas that are active in regard to performing rotary thromboelastometry.

(67) The cup 136b and pin 138b are shown in cross-section in FIG. 10B (in accordance with section 10B-10B of FIG. 10A). In addition, a blood inlet port 136bi (located behind pin 138b in the orientation of FIG. 10B) is provided so that the blood/reagent mixture will flow into the cup 136b via the blood inlet port 136bi. In the depicted embodiment, the cup inlet port 136bi is located in a sidewall of cup 136b at a height above the widened distal portion (refer to shoulder 138bs) of the pin 138b but below the proximal end of the pin 138b (refer to end near the entry to the axial bore 138bb of the pin 138b). In this configuration, the blood/reagent mixture will flow into the cup 136b so as to reduce the potential for bubble formation. In addition, locating the cup inlet port 136bi near the top of cup 136b eliminates the effects that the cup inlet port 136bi may otherwise have on the thromboelastometry measurements performed in the cup 136b if the cup inlet port 136bi is located in the active space between the inner diameter of the cup 136b and the outer diameter of the pin 138b below the shoulder 138bs.

(68) In the depicted embodiment, the top of the cartridge 124 includes a vent 121. The vent 121 is in fluid communication with the needle 123b. Therefore, when air for venting a blood sample tube located in sample well 122 is needed, air is drawn through the vent 121 and channeled into the blood sample tube via the needle 123b.

(69) Each of the pins 138a-e includes an axial bore. For example, the pin 138b includes an axial bore 138bb. The axial bore 138bb can be used to engage with a shaft (not shown in FIG. 10B) for performing rotary thromboelastometry.

(70) Referring to FIG. 10C, an example rotary thromboelastometry assembly 300b can engage with the pin 138b to perform rotary thromboelastometry on a blood sample contained in the cup 136b. In this particular embodiment, the example rotary thromboelastometry assembly 300b includes a baseplate 302, a shaft 310b, a bearing 312b, a mirror 314b, a counterforce spring 320b, a light source 330b, and a detector 340b (e.g., a charge-coupled device or the like). The baseplate 302 can be lowered, as represented by arrows 318b, such that a tip portion of the shaft 310b enters the bore 138bb to become releasably coupled with the pin 138b. The bearing 312b is engaged with the baseplate 302 and the shaft 310b to facilitate rotational movement of the shaft 310b in relation to the baseplate 302. The counterforce spring 320b is coupled to the shaft 310b and oscillation of the spring 320b can induce the shaft 310b to oscillate back and forth by about +/−5° as represented by arrow 316b. The mirror 315 is coupled to the shaft 310b. The light source 330b is configured to project light towards the mirror 314b, and light can be reflected from the mirror 315 towards the detector 340b (depending on the rotational orientation of the shaft 310b). Accordingly, the motion of the pin 138b is detected by an optical detection system. It should be understood that other configurations of the rotary thromboelastometry assembly 300b are also envisioned within the scope of this disclosure.

(71) The detected motion data is analyzed by an algorithm running on the analyzer console 140 (refer to FIGS. 1-3) to process and determine the thromboelastometry results. This system facilitates various thromboelastometry parameters such as, but not limited to, clotting time, clot formation time, alpha angle, amplitude, maximum clot firmness, lysis onset time, lysis time, lysis index (%), and maximum lysis (%).

(72) As the blood in the cup 136b begins to coagulate, the motion amplitude of the shaft 310b starts to decrease (as detected by the deflection of the light beam from mirror 315 towards the detector 340b). During coagulation, the blood's fibrin backbone (together with platelets) creates a mechanical elastic linkage between the surfaces of the cup 136b and the pin 138b. A proceeding coagulation process induced by adding one or more of the aforementioned activating factors can thus be observed and quantified. In this way, various deficiencies of a patient's hemostatic status can be revealed and can be interpreted for proper medical intervention. At the end of the test process, the baseplate 302 can rise to uncouple the shaft 310b from the pin 138b.

(73) Referring to FIG. 11, the main chassis 144 of the analyzer console 140 can include a front portion 144f and a rear portion 144b. In some embodiments, the rear portion 144b houses at least some of the computer and electronic components that are necessary for the operations of the analyzer console 140. For example, the rear portion 144b can house hardware devices and software such as, but not limited to, computer processors, memory devices, an operating system and other executable instructions, power source(s), user interface controls, communication devices, circuit boards, and the like.

(74) In the depicted embodiment, the front portion 144f includes a cover 145 and a sample handler assembly 400. The sample handler assembly 400 defines an interior space in which the cartridge 120 can be received. In some embodiments, the sample handler assembly 400 is a modular sub-assembly of the analyzer console 140, and the sample handler assembly 400 can be readily removed from the analyzer console 140 for service. The sample handler assembly 400 is electrically interconnected with the computer and electronic components that are housed in the rear portion 144b. As such, the analyzer console 140 can perform rotary thromboelastometry on a blood sample located in cartridge 120 and display the results on the touchscreen display 142.

(75) Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, the analyzer console 140 can include a cartridge receiver and clamp 410 and a viscoelastic measurement system 480. A mechanical frame assembly is used to support the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 and the viscoelastic measurement system 480 in orientations such that the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 and the viscoelastic measurement system 480 can function symbiotically.

(76) Portions of the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 and the viscoelastic measurement system 480 are moveable in relation to the mechanical frame assembly (which is stationary in relation to the analyzer console 140). For example, the viscoelastic measurement system 480 can move upward and downward. As will be described further below, the viscoelastic measurement system 480 can move downward to engage with the cartridge 120 (e.g., refer to FIG. 11), and upward to disengage from the cartridge 120. A portion of the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 can move horizontally in relation to the mechanical frame assembly. As will be described further below, a portion of the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 can move horizontally to clamp or unclamp the cartridge 120 within the sample handler assembly 400.

(77) In some embodiments, the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 includes a movable block sub-assembly and a stationary block sub-assembly. A space exists between the movable block sub-assembly and the stationary block sub-assembly in which the cartridge 120 can be received. The movable block sub-assembly can be translated towards or away from the stationary block sub-assembly. Accordingly, the cartridge 120 can be clamped and unclamped between the movable block sub-assembly and the stationary block sub-assembly by virtue of the relative movement therebetween. In some embodiments, the viscoelastic measurement system 480 is mounted to the movable block sub-assembly. Therefore, as the movable block sub-assembly is translated, the viscoelastic measurement system 480 is also translated.

(78) In some embodiments, the moveable block sub-assembly can be translated by an electric motor. In particular embodiments, the motor is a stepper motor. In some embodiments, a gear reducer is coupled to the motor. Using a belt and pulley arrangement for compactness, the motor can be used to drive a lead screw. The threads of the lead screw can be engaged with complementary threads of the movable block such that a rotation of the lead screw results in horizontal translation of the movable block. In some embodiments, end-of-travel detectors (e.g., proximity sensors, optical sensors, micro-switches, and the like) are included to detect when the moveable block sub-assembly has been horizontally translated to the desired end-of-travel positions.

(79) In some embodiments, one or more springs can extend between the movable moveable block sub-assembly and the stationary block sub-assembly. The springs can help facilitate a suitable clamping force between the movable block sub-assembly and the stationary block sub-assembly. In some embodiments, the springs are adjustable.

(80) In some embodiments, portions of the moveable block sub-assembly and the stationary block sub-assembly that make contact with the cartridge 120 comprise a flexible or compressible material so that while the cartridge 120 is clamped it is also protected from damage.

(81) In particular embodiments, the moveable block sub-assembly can include one or more features on the clamping face of the moveable block sub-assembly that serve to position the cartridge 120 in the desired location within the sample handler assembly 400. For example, in some embodiments the moveable block sub-assembly includes two locator pins that can mate with the locator pin receptacles 140a and 140b of the cartridge 120 (refer to FIG. 7) to accurately position the cartridge 120 in relation to the sample handler assembly 400.

(82) In some embodiments, one or both of the moveable block sub-assembly and the stationary block sub-assembly include heating devices 412 that can warm the cartridge 120 when the cartridge 120 is clamped therebetween. For example, in some embodiments the heaters 412 are electrical resistance heaters that are used to heat at least portions of the cartridge 120. In some embodiments, the heaters 412 are configured to facilitate warming of individual portions of the cartridge 120 independently from other portions of the cartridge 120. For example, one or more of the individual blood flow channels 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, and 130e (refer to FIGS. 4-7) can be independently warmed in some such embodiments. Warming may be performed to one or more sides of the cartridge 120. Other types of warming modalities may be used including, but not limited to, IR, ultrasonic, microwave, and the like.

(83) In particular embodiments, one or more temperature sensors 414 are included that can detect the temperature of the cartridge 120 at one or more locations on the cartridge 120. For example, in some embodiments the one or more temperature sensors 414 can be thermocouples, thermistors, infra-red temperature sensors, and the like. Accordingly, the analyzer console 140 can control the heating of the cartridge 120 to a predetermined temperature (e.g., about 37° C.) using the heaters 412 and the temperature sensors 414.

(84) The moveable block sub-assembly can include multiple solenoids that are used to actuate the aforementioned vents and valves of the cartridge 120. For example (referring also to FIG. 7), the valves 168, 170, and 160 a-e, can be actuated by valve actuators 430 and the vents 166a-e can be actuated by vent actuators 432. In some embodiments, the valve actuators 430 and the vent actuators 432 comprise solenoids. Actuation of the valves 168, 170, and 160 a-e by the valve actuators 430 can be accomplished by coupling pins to the valve actuators 430 that are extendable from the moveable block sub-assembly to make contact with and to distend valve elastomer members so that the elastomer members make contact with a valve seat within the cartridge 120. Actuation of the vents 166a-e by the vent actuators 432 can be accomplished by coupling pins with resilient tips that are extendable from the moveable block sub-assembly to obstruct the vents 166 a-e. Such pins with resilient tips can act as stoppers to substantially prevent airflow through the vents 166a-e. In some embodiments, the valve actuators 430 and the vent actuators 432 comprise solenoids that include internal springs that cause the valve actuators 430 and the vent actuators 432 to be normally extended (e.g., when the electrical power is removed from the solenoids). Accordingly, such normally closed solenoids will close the vents and valves of the cartridge 120 as a default configuration.

(85) The sample handler assembly 400 also includes pressure source 436 and vacuum source 434 by which air pressure and vacuum can be applied to the pressure application port 164 and the vacuum application port 162 of cartridge 120 respectively (refer to FIG. 7). For example, the pressure source 436 and vacuum source 434 can make contact with the cartridge 120 and can convey pressure or vacuum to the pressure application port 164 and the vacuum application port 162 when the cartridge 120 is clamped within the cartridge receiver and clamp 410. The pressure source 436 and vacuum source 434 are at least partially made of a resilient material in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments the pressure source 436 and vacuum source 434 are at least partially made of a resilient material such as, but not limited to, silicone, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, fluoroelastomers, and the like. One or more internally-housed pressure and/or vacuum pumps (not shown) can also be included in the analyzer console 140. Such internally-housed pressure and vacuum pumps can be used to generate the air pressure or vacuum that is applied to the cartridge 120 to induce the transport of blood within the cartridge 120 as described above in reference to FIGS. 8A-8H.

(86) As previously described, the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 also includes the stationary block sub-assembly. In some embodiments, the stationary block sub-assembly does not move in relation to the mechanical frame assembly and in relation to the analyzer console 140 as a whole.

(87) In some embodiments, the analyzer console 140 includes a mixing unit 440. In particular embodiments, the mixing unit 440 includes a motor, a crank and connecting rod assembly, and a magnet shuttle. These components can be used to magnetically couple with the mixing elements of the cartridge 120 and to induce movement of the mixing elements within the mixing chambers 134a-e. The movement of the mixing elements encourages the reagent beads to dissolve in the blood contained within the mixing chambers 134a-e as described above.

(88) The analyzer console 140 can also include one or more sensors 448. The one or more sensors 448 can be used to detect the presence of blood in particular locations within the cartridge 120, such as blood detection locations 127a and 127b as described above (refer to FIG. 5). In some embodiments, the sensors 448 are optical sensors, such as IR (infrared) sensors. In some embodiments, the sensors 448 can be used to detect blood in other areas of the cartridge 120, such as, but not limited to, in the cups 136a-e (refer to FIGS. 8A-8H).

(89) The sample handler assembly 400 of the analyzer console 140 also includes the viscoelastic measurement system 480. The viscoelastic measurement system 480 includes the baseplate 302 (e.g., refer to FIG. 10C), one or more thromboelastometry assemblies (e.g., thromboelastometry assembly 300b), and a linear actuator assembly. The one or more thromboelastometry assemblies can each be affixed to the baseplate 302. In some embodiments, the linear actuator assembly can be coupled to the baseplate 302 and to the cartridge receiver and clamp 410. Accordingly, actuation of the linear actuator assembly can translate the baseplate 302 and the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 towards each other or away from each other. A linear bearing assembly of the linear actuator can guide the baseplate 302 in a linear path, and stabilize the baseplate 302, as the baseplate 302 translates towards or away from the cartridge receiver and clamp 410.

(90) In some embodiments, the linear actuator assembly causes the baseplate 302 to vertically raise or lower in relation to the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 using a motor (e.g., a DC motor or a stepper motor) that rotates a lead screw that has threads that are engaged with a drive nut. The drive nut is coupled to the baseplate 302. In some embodiments, end-of-travel detectors (e.g., proximity sensors, optical sensors, micro-switches, and the like) are included to detect when the baseplate 302 has been vertically translated to the desired end-of-travel positions.

(91) The viscoelastic measurement system 480 includes one of more rotary thromboelastometry assemblies (e.g., rotary thromboelastometry assembly 300b of FIG. 10C) that include a shaft configured to couple with a pin (e.g., the shaft 310b configured to couple with the pin 138b). Because the thromboelastometry assemblies are mounted to the baseplate 302, the shafts are raised or lowered in conjunction with the raising or lowering of the baseplate 302. Accordingly, actuation of the linear actuator assembly causes the shafts to vertically raise or lower in relation to the cartridge receiver and clamp 410, and in relation to a cartridge 120 when a cartridge 120 is clamped within the cartridge receiver and clamp 410. Therefore, from the description herein it can be understood that actuation of the linear actuator assembly can engage and disengage the shafts from the pins of the cartridge 120 (e.g., refer to FIG. 10C that shows baseplate 302 being lowered to engage shaft 310b with pin 138b).

(92) In addition to the aforementioned features of the analyzer console 140, in some embodiments the analyzer console 140 also includes one or more of the following features. The analyzer console 140 can include one or more barcode scanners 450 that, for example, can read a barcode at the barcode location 125 on the leading end of cartridge 120 (refer to FIG. 5). In some embodiments, the analyzer console 140 can include one or more devices to detect the presence of the cartridge 120 in a desired insertion location and/or orientation. For example, in some embodiments one or more micro switches can be used to detect when the cartridge 120 has been inserted in a desired location and orientation within the sample handler assembly 400. In some embodiments, the analyzer console 140 can include one or more auxiliary connections 460. The auxiliary connections 460 can include network and device connectors such as, but not limited to, one or more USB ports, Ethernet ports (e.g., RJ45), VGA connectors, Sub-D9 connectors (RS232), and the like. Such auxiliary connections 460 can be located on the rear of the main chassis 144, or at other convenient locations on the main chassis 144. For example, in some embodiments one or more USB ports may be located on or near the front of the main chassis 144.

(93) The analyzer console 140 also includes a user interface 142 (e.g., with a touchscreen display in this embodiment). In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 142 is configured to receive user input and to display output information to the user. For example, the user can enter information to the analyzer console 140 by making selections of various soft-buttons that may be displayed on the user interface 142 at times during the beginning, middle, and end of the testing process. In some embodiments, other selections such as, but not limited to, soft keyboard entries can be provided via user interface 142. In some embodiments, data entry can be performed additionally or alternatively by voice entry. In some embodiments, the user interface may include other peripheral devices (e.g., a mouse, a keyboard, an additional display device, and the like) as part of the analyzer console 140. In some embodiments, a computer data network (e.g., intranet, internet, LAN, etc.) may be used to allow for remote devices to receive and/or input information from the system 100. For example, in some embodiments one or more remote displays can be utilized via auxiliary connections 460. In the depicted embodiment, the user interface 142 also includes an external barcode reader 146 (refer to FIG. 1A). Alternatively or additionally, the user interface 142 of the analyzer console 140 can be equipped with a reader configured to read near-field communication tags, RFID tags, or the like. The analyzer console 140 can also include one or more control systems 470 that can execute instructions embodied in a computer program. The control systems 470 can include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. In some embodiments, the control systems 470 includes one or more such processors, memory, storage devices, interfaces, and other types of electronic sub-systems and components. Such components may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate. The control systems 470 can process instructions for execution within the analyzer console 140, including instructions stored in the memory or on the storage device. In some implementations, multiple processors and/or multiple buses may be used, as appropriate, along with multiple memories and types of memory. Also, multiple computing devices may be connected, with each device providing portions of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server bank, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system).

(94) The storage devices are capable of providing mass storage for the control systems 470. In some implementations, the storage device may be or contain a computer-readable medium, such as a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area network or other configurations. A computer program product can be tangibly embodied in an information carrier. The computer program product may also contain instructions that, when executed, perform one or more methods, such as those described above in reference to FIGS. 8A-8H. The computer program product can also be tangibly embodied in a computer- or machine-readable medium, such as the memory, the storage device, or memory on the processor(s).

(95) Referring to FIG. 13, in some implementations a user can interact with the thromboelastometry systems provided herein according to an example process 490. In step 492, the user can insert a cartridge into an analyzer console. In some examples, at least a portion of the cartridge remains exposed while other portions of the cartridge are concealed within the analyzer console. For example, this step is exemplified above in reference to FIG. 1A. In step 494, the user can couple a blood sample container to the cartridge after a prompt is received from the analyzer console. Step 494 can be performed while the cartridge remains inserted in the analyzer console as defined by step 492. At step 496, the user can press a “start” button (or equivalent) to initiate an automated transport of blood in the blood sample reservoir to the blood testing chambers of the cartridge such that the viscoelastic characteristics of the blood can be measured. In some examples, the analyzer console provides an indication that the testing is ready to be initiated, but that indication is not required as part of process 490.

(96) Referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, in some implementations a thromboelastometry system can perform thromboelastometry according to an example process 500. The individual steps of the process 500 may not necessarily be performed in the order listed. Further, in some implementations some steps of the process 500 may be performed in parallel. The process 500 may be performed by the thromboelastometry systems described above, such as thromboelastometry system 100.

(97) In step 510, the presence of a cartridge is detected in a receptacle of an analyzer console of the thromboelastometry system. For example, the detection may be performed by a micro switch, optical sensor, barcode scanner, and the like, or a combination thereof. Even though the cartridge is detected in the receptacle, at least a portion of the cartridge may be exterior to the analyzer console.

(98) In step 520, the analyzer console actuates a clamping mechanism to clamp the cartridge at least partially in the analyzer console. For example, the cartridge receiver and clamp 410 as described above can be activated to clamp the cartridge.

(99) In step 530, the analyzer console can optionally determine if the cartridge has characteristics that indicate the cartridge has been used previously. For example, the analyzer console may use optical sensors to inspect for the presence of blood in the cartridge. In some embodiments, if one or more characteristics that indicate the cartridge has been used previously are detected, the analyzer console may suspend further steps of process 500 and provide a pertinent message via the user interface.

(100) In step 540, the analyzer console can perform one or more QC tests to test the integrity of the cartridge. For example, in some embodiments the cartridge can be tested for leaks such as by performing a pressure/vacuum decay test.

(101) In step 550, the analyzer console scans the cartridge for a barcode. For example, the analyzer console may scan a leading end of the cartridge at which a 1D or 2D barcode may be present.

(102) In step 560, the analyzer console determined the types of thromboelastometry assays to be performed based on the information attained from the scan of the barcode in step 550.

(103) In step 570, the shafts of the thromboelastometry sub-system of the analyzer console are coupled with pins of the cartridge. The pins are located in cups of the cartridge. Accordingly, the coupling of the shafts of the thromboelastometry sub-system to the pins can configure the thromboelastometry system to be capable of performing thromboelastometry on a blood sample contained within the cups of the cartridge. For example, referring to FIG. 10C, the shaft 310b of the thromboelastometry assembly 300b can be lowered towards the cartridge so that the shafts 310b become friction-fit and releasably coupled with the pins 138b of the cartridge 120.

(104) In step 580, the analyzer console can begin rotatory reciprocation of the pins in relation to the cups of the cartridge. For example, this step is exemplified above in reference to FIG. 10C.

(105) In step 590, the analyzer console can heat the cartridge. In some implementations, the analyzer console may heat the cartridge to a predetermined temperature. In particular implementations, the analyzer console may maintain the cartridge at the predetermined temperature. For example, in some implementations the predetermined temperature may be about 35° C. to about 40° C., and preferably about 37° C.

(106) In step 600, the analyzer console provides a prompt to couple a blood sample container to the cartridge. This prompt may be provided, for example upon the successful completion of one or more steps, or upon the successful verification of one or more conditions, or both. For example, this prompt may be provided upon the cartridge's successful attainment of the predetermined temperature as per step 590, among other things. The prompt may be provided via the user interface of the analyzer console. For example, the prompt may be a visual message displayed on a touchscreen monitor of the analyzer console. An audible prompt may be provided in some implementations.

(107) In step 610, the analyzer console may optionally detect the presence of blood in the cartridge. Such detection may be performed, for example, using one or more IR sensors of the analyzer console. The detection of blood in the cartridge in this step can indicate that a blood sample container was successfully coupled to the cartridge.

(108) In step 620, the analyzer console can provide a prompt to “start” testing. In some implementations, the prompt to “start” testing may be provided on the basis of the successful completion of one or more steps, or upon the successful verification of one or more conditions, or both. The prompt may be provided via the user interface of the analyzer console. For example, the prompt may be a visual message displayed on a touchscreen monitor of the analyzer console. In some embodiments, the touchscreen can receive a user input to start the testing.

(109) In step 630, the analyzer console can cause blood to flow from the sample container into the cartridge. In some implementations, a vacuum source of the analyzer console is used to cause blood flow into the cartridge. In some implementations, an air pressure source of the analyzer console is used to cause blood flow into the cartridge. The analyzer console may also actuate various valves or vents to control the blood flow within the cartridge (e.g., refer to FIGS. 8A-8H).

(110) In step 640, the analyzer console can induce agitation to assist with the dissolving of reagents in the blood contained within the cartridge. This step is exemplified above in regard to the horizontal reciprocation of the magnet shuttle with its one or more magnets that are magnetically coupled with mixing elements of the cartridge 120, causes movement of the mixing elements within the cartridge 120 to encourage the reagent beads to dissolve in the blood contained within the mixing chambers 134a-e.

(111) In step 650, thromboelastometry testing is started. For example, the analyzer console can begin to analyze the data produced the thromboelastometry assemblies in regard to the reciprocating rotation of the shafts that are coupled with the pins 138a-e located in the cups 136a-e of the cartridge (refer to FIGS. 8A-8H). In some implementations, the analyzer console may begin to analyze the data produced by some of the thromboelastometry assemblies prior to beginning to analyze the data produced by others of the thromboelastometry assemblies. For example, as described above in reference to FIGS. 8A-8H, the analyzer console may begin to first analyze the data produced by the thromboelastometry assembly pertaining to cup 136e. Subsequently, the analyzer console may begin to analyze the data produced by the thromboelastometry assembly pertaining to cup 136d, and so on.

(112) In step 660, the analyzer console displays the results of the thromboelastometry. Such results may be displayed concurrently with the performance of the testing and at the completion of the testing. The results can be displayed via the user interface of the analyzer console, such as on the touchscreen display. The results can be displayed using qualitative graphical representations and quantitative parameters.

(113) In step 670, the analyzer console can unclamp the cartridge at the cessation of the testing. In some cases, such cessation may be initiated by a user input to the analyzer console to stop the testing, or by the completion of the test assays, or by the expiration of a time-based parameter. The unclamping may be performed, for example, by the horizontal translation of the moveable block sub-assembly. After the unclamping, the cartridge can be removed from the analyzer console.

(114) A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.