Abstract: An incubator includes an incubator ring assembly having at least two concentric rings supported for rotation about a common axle defining an axis of rotation. Each concentric ring includes a plurality of circumferentially defined load positions, each load position being sized for accommodating a test sample. At least one test station is arranged in relation to the plurality of load positions to selectively test a test sample, the test samples being are sequentially shuttled into and out of load positions of at least one of the concentric rings to increase the overall throughput of the analyzer.

Abstract: An incubator includes an incubator ring assembly having at least two concentric rings supported for rotation about a common axle defining an axis of rotation. Each concentric ring includes a plurality of circumferentially defined load positions, each load position being sized for accommodating a test sample. At least one test station is arranged in relation to the plurality of load positions to selectively test a test sample, the test samples being are sequentially shuttled into and out of load positions of at least one of the concentric rings to increase the overall throughput of the analyzer.

Abstract: An improved cartridge and method of dispensing test elements therefrom, which seals off the elements from exposure to the atmosphere. The cartridge includes, at its end apertured to eject test elements, a cover plate, said plate optionally being biased into contact with the end-most test element to cover the fluid opening provided in all such test elements. To dispense that end-most element, a pusher blade engages and ejects the element as in conventional cartridges. Optionally, the opposite end of the cartridge is sealed with a duck-bill seal.