Abstract: In an automatic sample supply apparatus which holds a plurality of sample vessels in a waiting station in a matrix pattern and which includes a plurality of rows of sample vessels, sends out the sample vessels in the front row laterally one by one to a sampling station, returns the sample vessels which have finished the required treatment to the waiting station, and advances the sample vessels in the rearmost row in the waiting station collectively as a whole in one step corresponding to one row when all the sample vessels in the front row of the waiting station have been sent out, a suction needle for drawing up the sample in a sample vessel which can penetrate a rubber stopper secured to the sample vessels is employed.

Abstract: A number of test tubes containing blood to be diagnosed are arranged in a matrix in a magazine. The test tubes of the foremost row are sent out one after one to a sample holding and transfer apparatus which transfers the sample to a stirring apparatus where the test tube is swung and alternately rotated in opposite directions by a pair of rollers. The stirred test tube is sent to blood diagnostic apparatus and then sent back to the rearmost row of the matrix. When all tubes in the foremost row are sent out, the remaining rows are moved to sequentially send out the test tubes in the second row.