Abstract: An analyzer for biological fluids includes a sample fluid metering device that is movable to a first metering position located directly over a generally planar test element supported in a metering station, and a reference fluid metering apparatus that is movable to a second metering position closely adjacent the first metering position. The reference fluid metering apparatus comprises a reference fluid supply reservoir supported in a location spaced from the metering station, an aspirator operable to aspirate reference fluid from the reservoir and to deposit the fluid on the test element positioned at the metering station and a cam and gear arrangement driven by a single drive motor for moving the aspirator linearly toward and away from the supply reservoir and toward and away from the metering station and for pivotally moving the aspirator between a position spaced from the supply reservoir and a position spaced from the metering station.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for repeatedly and accurately depositing predetermined amounts of fluid, especially biological fluids, onto generally planar analysis slides. The apparatus comprises a dispenser which is adapted to pick up a disposable metering tip, aspirate fluid into the tip, meter a predetermined amount of fluid from the tip onto an analysis slide, and eject the tip after the metering operation.

Abstract: A tray is adapted to be rotatably mounted on chemical analysis apparatus and to receive a plurality of cups of fluid samples for chemical analysis. The tray is formed of a plurality of discrete arcuate segments independently removable from, and replaceable onto the analysis apparatus to form a circular composite tray when all the segments are present. The tray is provided with a plurality of replaceable metering tips, one per fluid sample cup, which may be radially aligned with the cups. The tray segments are mounted on a carrier which can be removed from the chemical analysis apparatus with all the tray segments as a unit.

Abstract: An incubator is provided for use with a chemical analyzer of the type in which a fluid sample is metered onto a test slide which is analyzed after a suitable period of incubation. The incubator includes a temperature-controlled chamber having a conveyor mounted therein which comprises a plurality of slide holding members. A drive means for the conveyor is adapted to successively advance the slide holding members past load and unload slots located adjacent slide transfer mechanisms.