Bellows pump and actuating apparatus

Abstract

Bellows pump and actuating apparatus for automatically aspirating biological sample fluid material into and through an aspirating probe from a source of fluid sample material, into and through a sample segmenting valve for passage through a counting device. A plurality of bellows members, each having an axis of compression and expansion, has one end mounted on a fixed member. Timing and stroke members are provided for actuating movement of the other end of the bellows members, which are free to be moved parallel to their axis. A positioning member positions the timing and stroke members coaxially of the bellows members at preselected times. A drive member moves the timing and stroke members parallel to the axis of compression and expansion of the bellows members. Photo-optical indicating members, cooperating with the positioning member, interrupts the drive to the positioning member when the timing and stroke members are coaxially aligned with the bellows members. Thereupon, the drive member actuates the timing and stroke members for compressing or expanding the bellows, effectively producing pressure or vacuum to aspirate the biological sample fluid material into and through the counting device. Aspirating probe washing and drying apparatus is operably connected to the segmenting valve and includes a sealing member for sealing the probe from the ambient atmosphere and a biohazard containment member for avoiding operator contact with the sample fluid material during operation of the apparatus.