Abstract: A modular multi-channel automated medical analyzer device is disclosed, characterized by use of an ion selective electrode and/or enzymatic electrode/wash cell system which permits rapid analysis of various substances of interest contained within undiluted body fluids such as whole blood, serum and/or plasma. The ion selective electrode and/or the enzymatic electrode are disposed upon a probe which automatically axially reciprocates downwardly in a simple manipulative motion between an open-ended reference wash cell and a sample cup bearing the body fluid specimen to be analyzed. The wash cell includes an inlet port and one or more outlet ports through which is circulated an aqueous solution bearing a known concentration of the substance to be measured to provide a reference calibration medium as well as a probe washing medium.

Abstract: An improved enzymatic electrode and electrode module specifically adapted for use in a medical analyzer device is disclosed which permits rapid analysis of substances of interest contained within undiluted body fluids such as whole blood, serum and/or plasma. The enzymatic electrode is in fluid communication with an axially reciprocating probe which selectively transports either a quantity of a buffer aqueous solution or a calibrant aqueous solution presented at a wash cell or a body fluid specimen disposed within a sample cup to an active enzyme bearing membrane positioned adjacent the enzymatic electrode.

Abstract: A system for heat sealing in conjunction a pair of plastic strips each of having a series of regularly spaced transverse pockets so that the pockets together form chambers separated by webs. The two pocketed strips to be joined are brought together and the strips heat sealed around the pockets to seal the chambers from one another while passing cooling fluid over the pockets so as to avoid distortion or collapse of the pockets.

Abstract: A flexible plastic cuvette belt comprises a series of open-topped chambers defining said cuvettes interconnected by webs. The chambers are generally rectangular in cross-section with their side faces having an approximately flat profile across their widths. The belt is used in conjunction with a photometric analysis station of the clinical analyzer which has a pair of spaced parallel plates which engage the cuvette side faces and render or keep them parallel. The forming press for use in the manufacture of such a cuvette belt is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly and method for introducing and transporting sample containers in a chemical analyzer, and in particular, to an assembly for organizing randomly loaded sample containers in a positively-identifiable fashion. The assembly additionally includes a means for sequencing the organization of sample containers and a novel means for dispensing measured amounts of sample therefrom.

Abstract: A container for holding a small quantity of liquid. The container comprises an elongated housing having a fluid receptacle disposed in the upper end thereof. The dimensions of the receptacle are substantially less than the overall dimensions of the housing, thereby facilitating the handling of the container and inhibiting evaporation of the liquid therein.

Abstract: A tablet dispenser for dispensing a solid tablet or a predetermined number of tablets of a substantially uniform size from a storage area containing a relatively large number of tablets into a dispensing orifice upon operation of an external actuating mechanism. The tablet dispenser comprises a hollow body having an upper portion for storing the relatively large number of tablets and a lower base portion having the dispensing orifice formed in its bottom. A gate member is mounted for reciprocal movement above the tablet dispensing orifice and has a tablet receiving area formed therein. A field organizing member is mounted for reciprocal movement below the tablet storage portion and above the gate member and has a tablet receiving area formed therein which communicates with the tablet storage portion.