Abstract: The invention features a sample probe and reagent selector valve that enables selection among multiple functions of withdrawing a biological sample from a syringe or capillary into a fluid parameter sensor module, providing calibration and quality control reagents to the sensor module, and flowing a washing fluid through intake passages to prevent cross-contamination and clogging. The valve and sensor module are used in conjunction with an automated analytical instrument, such as an automated blood analyzer, to increase the speed of the analysis, minimize cross contamination between samples, and to overcome the inherent dangers of using the conventional needle/syringe or capillary methods of withdrawing fluids to be tested. The design of the valve provides performance benefits in the form of lower sample and reagent waste volumes, elimination of auxiliary valves and manifolds, and superior performance and reduced cost.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for simultaneously cutting parallel slots in a pavement surface is provided, especially for dowel bar retrofit load transfer restoration at joints. The apparatus includes a movable frame lockable with a brake, plurality of parallel cutting blades rotatably mounted on twin cutting heads on the frame, vertical travel unit for raising and lowering the blades independently or in unison, and horizontal travel units for moving the blades horizontally. One of the twin cutting heads is mounted on each side of the frame, with hydraulic adjusting rams for independently setting the width therebetween. A slurry control system which is mounted on the frame provides the blades with coolant and vacuums up the slurry produced during cutting.

Abstract: An analysis system for analyzing a biological fluid or the like for a constituent of the interest includes metal body structure with sample flow path channel structure that serially interconnects heater chamber structure, recess structure for receiving a reaction chamber cartridge and an analysis region to which a measuring system is coupled. The reaction chamber cartridge preferably includes reaction chamber structure with an immobilized enzyme in the reaction chamber that is capable of converting the constituent of interest to a constituent detectable by the measuring system. Cooperating with the metal body structure is a transparent face plate structure which permits visual observation of the sample flow path in the metal body structure.

Abstract: A system for analyzing a biological fluid or the like includes a series flow loop that extends between an inlet valve array and an outlet valve array. The flow loop includes an analysis region to which a measuring system is connected in sensing relation and an accumulator chamber connected to the outlet of the analysis region. The inlet valve array is arranged to selectively and alternately connect a sample inlet port and an auxiliary fluid reservoir to the flow loop while the outlet valve array is arranged to selectively connect a controlled source of reduced pressure to the flow loop.