Abstract: Test carrier analysis system consisting of test carriers and an associated evaluation apparatus.The evaluation apparatus has a positioning device (5) for the exact positioning of a test carrier (1). A fixing element engaging with a recess (8) of the test carrier (1) is used for this purpose.

Abstract: According to a second aspect, the present invention also provides an apparatus for the evaluation of a flat test carrier for the analytical determination of components of a body fluid, said apparatus having a measurement unit and a positioning means, by means of which the test carrier is positioned and firmly held in a measurement position in such a manner that its test field is present in a definite position with regard to the measurement unit, wherein, for the evaluation of test carriers with a covering layer fixed in the manner of a flap on one edge of the test carrier, there is present a shutter element with a contact surface for pressing on the covering layer, the aperture element and/or the positioning means being mounted and operable in such a manner that the contact surface in the last phase of approaching the covering layer makes, relative to the test carrier, a tilting movement about a tilting axis which lies in close proximity to a fixing edge of the covering layer.

Abstract: According to a first aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for the evaluation of a longitudinally extending, flexible test carrier for the analytical determination of components of a body fluid. The test carrier has an insertion end to be inserted into the apparatus and a handling end. The test carrier is positioned and securely held in a measurement position in such a manner that its test field is present in a definite position with regard to the measurement unit. The positioning element includes at least two holding elements, one of which firmly holds the test carrier close to its insertion end and the other of which firmly holds the test carrier close to its handling end. A supporting surface being provided on which the test carrier lies at least partly in its measurement position.

Abstract: A device for reflected-light photometry, that determines the reflectivity of a specimen area which is part of an objective area specifically dedicated for the determination of certain properties, especially those of the reaction area of a medical-laboratory test strip. The device has a light source for illuminating the specimen area, preferably with diffuse light, and a photodetector that picks up light reflected from the specimen area. There is, in accordance with the invention, an opaque diaphragm with a particular shape, position, and mounting in the path of light between the specimen area and the detector.

Abstract: A blood lancet device for taking blood for diagnostic purposes, having a housing with an exit opening for the lancet, a lancet guide for guiding the puncturing and return movement of the lancet, a spring drive for movement of the lancet and a stop by means of which the lancet is held in a position remote from the part of the body from which blood is to be taken. In the region of the exit opening for the lancet, a release element is present in the housing, the release element being in operative connection with the stop.