Rapid automatic loader for swing-rotor centrifuge separating e.g. blood plasma for analysis includes system dispensing fluid into reservoir for perfect balancing

摘要

A rack holder (30) can be attached to the reception pocket of the centrifuge swinging hanger. The rack holder includes balancing fluid reservoirs (32). Loading of the centrifuge, comprising the total weight of: the rack (15) for small sample tubes, their varied contents, the rack holder (30) and fluid contained in the rack holder reservoir, is maintained sensibly constant. An Independent claim is included for the method of loading and unloading the centrifuge. The rack, filled with sample tubes, is introduced into the centrifuge by a supply unit. The rack is grasped by the handling robot. Weight of the rack is determined using the weigher (16) of the handling robot. A determined quantity of fluid is supplied into the dosing reservoir (17) of the handling robot. The rack is inserted into the rack holder in the centrifuge hanger. The set quantity of fluid is transferred into the rack holder reservoirs (32), achieving the required constant total weight. Centrifugation proceeds. The robot sucks fluid from the rack holder reservoir. It unloads the rack from the centrifuge hanger. A removal unit takes the rack from the centrifuge.