Abstract: Method and apparatus in an automated sample analysis system for on-line preparation from plural constituents of a reagent for combination with a sample, which includes purification of the reagent prior to exposure of the reagent in a flowing stream to a flowing stream of such sample. For such reagent preparation, the fluid constituents are caused to flow in respective streams which combine in the required volumes in a predetermined sequence to form a resultant stream in which the constituents intermingle and interact. This stream passes through a purifier as it flows toward a confluence with the sample stream, to free the reagent from one or more elements which would interfere with sample analysis.

Abstract: A quick-disconnect coupler for a light-transmitting flowcell having in a sight path light-input and light-output windows, respectively, for interposition intermediate a light source and a light detector, respectively, at least in part through a pair of elongated light-transmitting elements, and a support member for the flowcell. There is provided a slip-on flowcell supported on the support member, and a quick-release clamp comprising a pair of jaw members having a pair of corresponding end portions and comprising mounting means for movement of said end portions respectively toward and away from each other and said flowcell windows. The light-transmitting elements have terminals supported in the respective jaw members for alignment with the respective flowcell windows and in contact with said flowcell in the operative positions of the jaws.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for processing the successive echo pulses which result from the interrogation of a layered material by energy pulses, and include the direct provision from said echo pulses of the uncompensated coherent echo response of said material to thereby preserve phase information, the provision of the compensated impulse response of said material by modification of said echo response with a non-linear correction function, and the calculation of the RAYLOGRAM of said material from said impulse response. All of the above is accomplished in the complete absence of deconvolution, and said non-linear correction function includes a normalization factor to normalize the impulse response and provision for modifying the latter to compensate for energy pulse attenuation in the material to render it more accurate by satisfying the known boundary conditions of said layered material.