Fluid handling apparatus and configurations

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.

1 - 22 . (canceled) 
     
     
         23 . A sample processing apparatus for use with a biological sample and/or a reagent, comprising:
 a housing; and   a display screen mounted on the housing;   said housing containing the following:
 one or more movable trays configured to accept one or more sample or other component of the apparatus; 
 at least one centrifuge; 
 at least one optical detector; 
 a control unit having a processor that is programmed to execute computer-readable commands; and 
 a sample handling system comprising at least one pipette body. 
   
     
     
         24 . The apparatus of  claim 23  where said one or more trays is translatable in a horizontal direction. 
     
     
         25 . The apparatus of  claim 23  where said one or more trays is translatable in a vertical direction. 
     
     
         26 . The apparatus of  claim 23  wherein one or more portions of the housing may be selectively opened or closed. 
     
     
         27 . The apparatus of  claim 23 , wherein said at least one pipette body has a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from said pipette nozzle, wherein the pipette has a height, width, and length each of which dimension does not exceed 20 cm. 
     
     
         28 . The apparatus of  claim 25  wherein said at least one pipette body has a height which does not exceed 7 cm. 
     
     
         29 . The apparatus of  claim 23 , wherein the processor of the control unit is programmed to regulate independent movement of said at least one pipette body. 
     
     
         30 . The apparatus of  claim 23 , wherein the at least one pipette body is movable over the centrifuge. 
     
     
         31 . The apparatus of  claim 25 , wherein the apparatus further comprises a processor programmed to regulate the independent movement of said at least one pipette body and a second at least one pipette body. 
     
     
         32 . The apparatus of  claim 23  wherein the control unit executes computer-executable commands to monitor and evaluate malfunctioning of one or more components in the apparatus, wherein sending said instructions to said apparatus effects correction of said malfunctioning in real time. 
     
     
         33 . The apparatus of  claim 23 , wherein the housing further contains a cartridge receiving location. 
     
     
         34 . The apparatus of  claim 23 , wherein the display screen comprises a touch screen.