Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-contained growth system that functions as a stand-alone growth system or combined with a hydroponic or aeroponic growth system for the controlled growth of plants. A Spiral Tower having an entry port for seedling or seeds embedded onto trays floating on a downward spiraling water flow provides a closed environment with optimum nutrient and growth conditions for each plant type. The Spiral Tower is capable of germinating seedlings in a closed environment for subsequent maturation in an aeroponic or other system. As a stand-alone growth system, the Spiral Tower is capable of the continued growth of certain early life plants. Other applications as a seed to harvest system used in harvesting wheatgrass and similar plants. The system is designed for cost-effective use in restricted space and in regions not conducive for commercial plant production.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-contained growth system that functions as a stand-alone growth system or combined with a hydroponic or aeroponic growth system for the controlled growth of plants. A Spiral Tower having an entry port for seedling or seeds embedded onto trays floating on a downward spiraling water flow provides a closed environment with optimum nutrient and growth conditions for each plant type. The Spiral Tower is capable of germinating seedlings in a closed environment for subsequent maturation in an aeroponic or other system. As a stand-alone growth system, the Spiral Tower is capable of the continued growth of certain early life plants. Other applications as a seed to harvest system used in harvesting wheatgrass and similar plants. The system is designed for cost-effective use in restricted space and in regions not conducive for commercial plant production.

Abstract: The present invention may relate to Aeroponic Systems and their individual elements. More particularly to automated systems capable of monitoring and adjusting some if not all of the light, nutrient, water quality and environmental factors required for the propagation and sustained growth of all types of plants. It may also describe methods to support the plants during propagation from seeds and for growth and harvesting. It may describe various methodologies for reducing space requirements and for increasing plant density without detriment to the growth cycles.

Abstract: The present invention may relate to Aeroponic Systems and their individual elements. More particularly to automated systems capable of monitoring and adjusting some if not all of the light, nutrient, water quality and environmental factors required for the propagation and sustained growth of all types of plants. It may also describe methods to support the plants during propagation from seeds and for growth and harvesting. It may describe various methodologies for reducing space requirements and for increasing plant density without detriment to the growth cycles.

Abstract: The present invention may relate to Aeroponic Systems and their individual elements. More particularly to automated systems capable of monitoring and adjusting some if not all of the light, nutrient, water quality and environmental factors required for the propagation and sustained growth of all types of plants. It may also describe methods to support the plants during propagation from seeds and for growth and harvesting. It may describe various methodologies for reducing space requirements and for increasing plant density without detriment to the growth cycles.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer includes a flow cell mounted so that flow through the cell and tubing connected to the cell is visible from the front of the housing. The electrolytes to the cell are removably plugged into the cell from their rear. The probe aspirating sample fluid into an injection cell is simultaneously washed by diluent and the diluent mixes with the fluid sample. Waste fluid from the flow cell is fed to a basin which then feeds under gravity to a waste drain. A ratio pump is formed by selected syringes which are band driven to deliver accurately prerequisite volumes of reagents to the flow cell. The solution ground to the system is on the inlet line for sample adjacent the entrance to the flow cell of fluid thereby minimizing electronic noise. Only two motive means are necessary, one to effect horizontal and rotational movement of the sample tray, and a second to effect vertical motion of a crane mounted probe operative between sample cups and an injection cell.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer includes a flow cell mounted so that flow through the cell and tubing connected to the cell is visible from the front of the housing. The electrolytes to the cell are removably plugged into the cell from their rear. The probe aspirating sample fluid into an injection cell is simultaneously washed by diluent and the diluent mixes with the fluid sample. Waste fluid from the flow cell is fed to a basin which then feeds under gravity to a waste drain. A ratio pump is formed by selected syringes which are band driven to deliver accurately prerequisite volumes of reagents to the flow cell. The solution ground to the system is on the inlet line for sample adjacent the entrance to the flow cell of fluid thereby minimizing electronic noise. Only two motive means are necessary, one to effect horizontal and rotational movement of the sample tray, and a second to effect vertical motion of a crane mounted probe operative between sample cups and an injection cell.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer comprises discrete sample cups about the circumference of a carousel. A motor selectively moves the sample cups towards and away from a target location where a probe is located for reciprocal vertical motion. The motion is timed for reaction with a sample cup so that when the sample cup is in position at the target location, the probe removes fluid from the sample cup. When the sample cup is moved from position, the probe aspirates fluid into an injection cell below the sample cup. A vertical motion only is imparted to the probe, while the sample cups move under the action of a single motor horizontally and laterally to define a rotational movement.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer includes sample cups circumferentially located on a sample wheel. Means moves the sample cups rotationally under cycloidal action to and away from a target location where a probe operates vertically in relation to the sample cups and an injection cell. The motion is effected by a cam operating with a cam follower formed by lobes circumferentially located about a drive wheel which houses the sample wheel or carousel.

Abstract: An automatic chemistry analyzer includes a flow cell mounted so that flow through the cell and tubing connected to the cell is visible from the front of the housing. The electrolytes to the cell are removably plugged into the cell from their rear. The probe aspirating sample flud into an injection cell is simultaneously washed by diluent and the diluent mixes with the fluid sample. Waste fluid from the flow cell is fed to a basin which then feeds under gravity to a waste drain. A ratio pump is formed by selected syringes which are band driven to deliver accurately prerequisite volumes of reagents to the flow cell. The solution ground to the system is on the inlet line for sample adjacent the entrance to the flow cell of fluid thereby minimizing electronic noise. Only two motive means are necessary, one to effect horizontal and rotational movement of the sample tray, and a second to effect vertical motion of a crane mounted probe operative between sample cups and an injection cell.

Abstract: A sample loading and unloading apparatus for an automated clinical instrument including a loading tray adapted to receive a plurality of sample carrying sectors. The apparatus further includes a sample carousel having a plurality of locations each adapted to receive sample sectors. The portion of the sample carousel nearest the loading tray defines a transfer position. The loading tray includes a transfer assembly for transferring a sector positioned at the transfer position from the sample carousel to the loading tray and simultaneously transferring a sector from the loading tray to the sample carousel. The transfer assembly includes a transfer spider which may be pneumatically raised to temporarily lift the sample sectors from the loading tray and the sample sector from the transfer position.

Abstract: A data entry device durable enough to withstand the rigors of industrial type usage in which the electronic components are isolated from the external environment is described. The device comprises a molded elastomer keyboard matrix with thin stainless steel keypads. Embedded into the elastomer beneath the keys are small magnets. Solid state Hall-effect switches are mounted at a predetermined distance from the magnets and are separated from them by a magnetically permeable stainless steel sheet which forms part of the enclosure isolating the electronic components from the environment. Depressing one of the keys on the elastomer matrix moves its associated magnet toward the respective Hall-effect device, causing a change in current which may be sensed by other electronic components. Because of the elastomer material, the keys spring back when released.