Abstract: An automated analytical instrument for conducting assays for components of interest in fluid samples. The instrument includes a rotably mounted supply unit or segment adapted to hold a plurality of foil-sealed magazines containing assay modules, a testing system for assaying a fluid sample for a component of interest using an assay module, an assay module transport assembly for transporting an assay module from a magazine in the supply unit to the testing system, and a microprocessor for controlling the operation of the automated analytical instrument.

Abstract: An automated analytical instrument for conducting assays for components of interest in fluid samples. The instrument includes a rotably mounted supply unit or segment adapted to hold a plurality of foil-sealed magazines containing assay modules, a testing system for assaying a fluid sample for a component of interest using an assay module, an assay module transport assembly for transporting an assay module from a magazine in the supply unit to the testing system, and a microprocessor for controlling the operation of the automated analytical instrument.

Abstract: An automated assay system includes a temperature controlled chamber with a conveyor therein. The conveyor carries berths past a port in a sidewall of the chamber to permit insertion and extraction of assay cartridges via the port into respective ones of the berths. An injector disposed outside the chamber and at the port includes a loader arm for advancing cartridges along a path through the port to accomplish insertion and extraction of a cartridge. A track is provided in the injector for guiding the assay module. A portion of the track connects by a swing arm to a pivot allowing the track portion to be swung away from the path for ejection of a cartridge. A door which provides for opening and closing of the port is connected to the swing arm to move concurrently with the swinging of the track portion. This allows for automatic closure of the port subsequent to an insertion or an extraction of a cartridge, and automatic opening of the port prior to insertion or extraction of the cartridge.