Biomerieux, Inc.

Gary W Sommer

Lawrence E Guerra

Mark Joseph Fanning

James Clement Bishop

Michael Herron

Stanley Michael Philipak

Ronnie J Robinson

Richard Scott Remes

A method and automated apparatus for rapid non-invasive detection of a microbial agent in a test sample is described herein. The apparatus may include one or more means for automated loading, automated transfer and/or automated unloading of a specimen container. The apparatus also includes a detection system for receiving a detection container, e.g., container or vial, containing a biological sample and culture media. The detection system may also include one or more heated sources, holding structures or racks, and/or a detection unit for monitoring and/or interrogating the specimen container to detect whether the container is positive for the presence of a microbial agent therein. In other embodiment, the automated instrument may include one or more, bar code readers, scanners, cameras, and/or weighing stations to aid in scanning, reading, imaging and weighing of specimen containers within the system.

Automated microbial detection apparatus

Growing community of inventors

Glen Carbon, IL, United States of America

Gary W Sommer