The valve actuator moves the sliding valve. The luer mount extension on
the sliding valve connects with the valve actuator when the measurement
cartridge locks on the cartridge interface module. During cartridge
initialization, the actuator moves back and forth until it automatically
engages the luer mount extension. A stepper motor, which has nine
positions and a left and a right limit stop, controls the actuator.
The bidirectional valve actuator motor and the position detectors, which
are part of the optical detector board, move and position the valve. Two
sensors in conjunction with the position detectors determine valve
position.
The thermal cover attaches to the cartridge interface module and protects
and guides the connector block. The cam shaft, used in conjunction with
the cartridge handle, raises and lowers the connector block.
The connector block provides the electrical and the thermal connections to
the sensors, and connections to the IDEE ROM. The connector block
consists of the following components:
•
preheater
•
main heater
•
contact board
•
multiplexer board
•
contact system protector
•
alignment and locking pins
The preheater contacts the preheater chip in the sensor module to heat
samples to 37°C. The preheater is thermally protected, so that the surface
temperature never exceeds 55°C.
The main heater contacts the heater plate of the sensor module to maintain
the temperature of the sensors and fluids at 37°C. The main heater also
controls the temperature of the preamplifiers. The main heater is thermally
protected, so that the surface temperature never exceeds 55°C.
44
Rev. C