Abstract: This disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for forming electrical contact with an analysis slide of the potentiometric type. A probe unit, electrically connected to an electrometer, comprises a plurality of probe tips which are adapted to penetrate into the electrodes of an analysis slide and to move laterally in a direction generally parallel to the electrode layers after penetration. A means is provided for preloading the probe tips to control the force required to effect lateral movement of the tips.

Abstract: A stapler for automatically driving staples of at least two different characteristics, such as length, into a workpiece. The stapler includes a staple driving member for driving staples into a workpiece, a staple forming member for forming staple blanks into staples and apparatus for selectively providing to the staple forming member staple blanks of at least first and second different lengths. Staple material of preselected first or second lengths is fed from a supply of a continuous length of staple material and severed from the continuous length to form the staple blanks.

Abstract: A chemical analyzer is disclosed for performing analysis on selected fluids. The analyzer comprises a plurality of cartridges containing test slides. A slide transfer mechanism is adapted to feed a slide from a selected cartridge, transport the slide to a metering device where a precise amount of fluid is deposited thereon, deliver the slide to conveyor means which moves the element through an incubator, and transport the slide to an analysis means after a predetermined time in the incubator.