Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for detecting concealed security threats by sampling molecules of substances for assessment wherein these molecules may be contained in the air in or near concealed security threats. Inspection of cargo containers by sampling the air contained therein and then analyzing the sampled air from the container for security threats including chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-explosive threats without requiring the modification of the existing container, the movement of the container to a particular inspection site, and without opening the container. Nuclear security threats may also be scanned for with close proximity nuclear radiation detection sensors closely coupled to areas at or near the concealed security threats. In addition, detection of other types of contraband, including illegal substances, embargoed materials and human and/or animal stowaways may also be assessed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sample entry device for delivering medical samples, preferably blood samples, from diverse sample containers to an analyzer, wherein sample transfer between sample intake and measuring cells of the analyzer taking place via gas-tight sample lines. According to the invention a fixed intake needle is provided at the entry side of the analyzer, which includes an elastic intake element that is axially slideable on the intake needle and has a conical intake opening. In addition, a holding element is provided, which is axially slideable parallel to the intake needle and can be shifted relative to the intake element. In a first position the holding element exposes the intake element and in a second position places a conical opening above the intake element to accommodate a syringe.

Abstract: A modular automated diagnostic analyzer having a fluid entry module for sample aspiration, a valve module for selecting fluids and a pump module for fluidic movement so that a biological samples does not come into contact with the valve system through which calibrants and air are introduced to the fluid path. The fluid entry module encloses an aspiration tube rotatably and slidably engaged with the analysis mechanism chassis to move to different positions for the introduction of fluids into the analysis apparatus from different types of sample containers. A wiping seal removes residues of aspirated fluids from the exterior surfaces of the aspiration tube with the residue being aspirated into the analysis apparatus for disposal. Sensor modules mounted in a sensors chamber are structured to mechanically stack and interlock and include film sensors with use life record memories and each sensor module includes a fluid tight sealed passage and a sensor element.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) and a method for concentrating and transferring volatile compounds contained in a sample on a detachable solid support (12) into a liquid for subsequent detection and/or analysis of the volatile compounds, are described. The apparatus comprises a holder (14) for the solid support (12), means (16) for transporting the holder (14) to a heating position on a heatable plate (18), an enclosed space-creating arrangement comprising the heatable plate (18) attached to a movable housing (30), the holder (14), the solid support (12), a funnel (20) on the solid support (12), and inside the funnel (20) a chilled member (22), means inside the housing (30) for heating the heatable plate (18) to evaporate the volatile compounds which then are condensed on the chilled member (22), means (24) for transporting the chilled member (22) from a cooler (26) to the inside of the funnel (20) and from there to a position (28) where condensed compounds are removed from the chilled member (22) into a liquid.

Abstract: In a sampling tube-type smoke detector equipped with a smoke detection device detects smoke particles contained in the air suctioned from a monitored area through a sampling tube by an aspirator positioned in the downstream. The smoke detection device the sampling tube forms a lead-in tube and suctions air through the sampling tube in substantially a straight line. The lead-in tube is formed with a smoke sensor unit to detect smoke particles contained in the air. The aspirator comprises a rotating part which forms an actuator mechanism that discharges the air. The central axis of the lead-in tube and the rotational axis of the actuator mechanism of the aspirator are substantially on the same axis. The sampling tube-type smoke detector is provided to reduce pressure loss in the airflow traveling from the smoke detection device to the aspirator and to supply a low cost, compact smoke detection device driven by a small-sized fan.

Abstract: This invention concerns a module for extracting samples in gas phase of compounds present in an underground working liquid, the extractor module including a receptacle for the liquid, associated with a device for stirring the liquid, a liquid inlet duct, a liquid evacuation duct, an auxiliary gas admission duct, and an outlet duct for delivering auxiliary gas and gas extracted from the liquid. The auxiliary gas admission duct and the evacuation duct include a common segment, for preventing the auxiliary gas from passing is provided in the evacuation duct downstream from the common segment in the liquid-passing direction.

Abstract: A method for flushing gas pockets from a manifold that forms a part of a liquid sampling system that is compatible with a chemical-mechanical polishing system is described. A flushing liquid, e.g., ultra pure water, is introduced into, and expelled from, the manifold to expel gas pockets from the manifold. The method comprises the steps of opening a manifold vent, filling the manifold with the flushing liquid, and closing the vent to increase the velocity of the flushing liquid flowing through the manifold. The introduction of the flushing liquid is discontinued, and thereafter, resumed. The discontinuation and resumption steps are preferably repeated The manifold is thus flushed of gas pockets.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in sampling material on-line in a process system, comprising a sample collector (1) for receiving a sample of material, an elongate shaft (10) defining a passageway (14) carrying a measurement probe (11) for taking measurements from a collected sample, a pressurised fluid supply (31) connected to the passageway for delivering a pressurised fluid through the passageway to the sample collector for displacing the collected sample and a nozzle (33) provided at the distal end of the measurement probe (11) for distributing the pressurised fluid to the sample collector for displacing the collected sample from the sample collector (1).

Abstract: Mass spectrometers, ion sources and methods for providing and transporting analyte ions derived from a sample to ion optics. A sample chamber is configured to receive a sample plate supporting a sample, and an illumination source is configured to illuminate the sample to generate analyte ions and particles. A matrix-protecting interface is located between the sample plate and the ion optics, and configured such that the shortest travel path between the illuminated portion of the sample plate and the sampling aperture or input of the ion optics is substantially obstructed. Alternatively, a gas flow directed at an angle from zero to 90 degrees relative to the main axis of the ion optics and away from the ion optics influences particles generated by the action of the illumination source away from the ion optics, and a voltage source extracts analyte ions of interest.

Abstract: Screening of items for the presence of contaminants, such as explosives residue, is accomplished by subjecting an item loaded into a pressure chamber to a pressure substantially in excess of atmospheric pressure conditions and rapidly decompressing the item to the ambient atmospheric pressure. The rapid decompression serves to scavenge vapors and particles from the exterior and interior of the item and any objects it contains. A sample of the vapors and particles removed from the item by the rapid decompression is sampled and is tested to determine whether a predetermined contaminant is present in the sample. Depending on the types of contaminants for which the sample is tested, it is possible to detect whether explosives, biological or chemical agents, and/or narcotics residues are present on or in the item being screened.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the automation of existing medical diagnostic tests is described. This method, called sequential injection analysis, makes use of a pump, multi-position selection valve, and micro-bore tubing to automate sample manipulation and reagent addition. A suitable detector with a flow cell also forms part of the flow manifold and this detector is used to measure some parameter that can be related to the desired diagnostic measurement. A reagent cartridge suitable for storing and reconstituting lyophilized reagent or reagent concentrate is also described. Use of such a reagent cartridge further enhances the automation of the device by providing a means for preparing reagents in an automated fashion. Automation of the measurement sequence and the sequencing of tests are controlled by a suitable central processor unit and software. The apparatus provides a means of automating existing manual diagnostic tests and as yet, undefined tests.

Abstract: A modular automated diagnostic analyzer having a fluid entry module for sample aspiration, a valve module for selecting fluids and a pump module for fluidic movement so that a biological sample does not come into contact with the valve system through which calibrants and air are introduced to the fluid path. The fluid entry module encloses an aspiration tube rotatably and slidably engaged with the analysis mechanism chassis to move to different positions for the introduction of fluids into the analysis apparatus from different types of sample containers. A wiping seal removes residues of aspirated fluids from the exterior surfaces of the aspiration tube with the residue being aspirated into the analysis apparatus for disposal. Sensor modules mounted in a sensor chamber are structured to mechanically stack and interlock and include film sensors with use life record memories and each sensor module includes a fluid tight sealed passage and a sensor element.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for preparing a sample meant for continuously operated on-line analysis and containing finely divided, pulverous material, so that the sample is suited for an analysing method designed to analysing the surface layer of the sample, and that a sample flow extracted from the material flow by a sampler is conducted to the device. According to the invention, in order to realize an essentially even sample material bed (10) to be transported past the analyser device (11), the height of the sample material in the sample material bed feeder element (5) is maintained essentially at a predetermined value.

Abstract: Provided is a method for preparing a sample surface for analysis that involves placing a sample surface in droplet-receiving relationship to a reservoir containing an analysis-enhancing fluid. Typically, the analysis-enhancing fluid is comprised of a mass spectrometry matrix material and a carrier fluid, and the carrier fluid is comprised of a low volatility solvent. A droplet of the analysis-enhancing fluid from the reservoir such that the droplet is deposited on the sample surface at a designated site. Such ejection is typically, but not necessarily carried out through the application of focused acoustic energy. Then, the sample is subjected to conditions sufficient to allow the analysis-enhancing fluid to interact with the sample surface to render the sample surface suitable for analysis. Optionally, the sample is analyzed at the selected site. Also provided are systems and devices for preparing a sample surface for analysis.

Abstract: An air sampler for use in analyzing biological or other analytes, comprizes an airflow chamber having an air inlet and an air outlet. An extract from an air mover draws ambient air in through the inlet, and then through the chamber, to discharge it back to atmosphere by way of an outlet. The airflow chamber houses a cyclone air/liquid separator through which the inflowing air is caused to pass. An injector introduces liquid into air flowing through the air inlet. The cyclone separator extracts this liquid and any entrained particles therein and discharges it from the airflow chamber, initially by way of a duct, where it is then conveyed to a collection vessel, by way of a three channel peristaltic pump, and a duct. The collection vessel is housed within a Peltier-cooled holder to maintain the contents of the vessel within the 2-8 degree Celsius range.

Abstract: In an aspirating and dispensing/spraying device, a holder is screwed onto a tube, connected to a liquid supply line, in such a way that it is displaceable along the tube by rotation. The tube is surrounded at a distance by a coaxial sleeve, which is solidly anchored in the holder, having a discharge opening on its front end, which is conically narrowed, whose edge surrounds the front end of the tube, which carries a outlet opening, separated by a narrow annular gap from the tube. The sleeve carries a connecting piece laterally, to which a pressurized gas supply line is connected and which discharges eccentrically into the space between the sleeve and the tube, so that pressurized gas flowing in receives angular momentum. When the gas flows out of the annular gap, it mixes intensively with the liquid coming out of the outlet opening and forms a discharge cone made of a fine, symmetrical aerosol with the liquid.

Abstract: The invention relates to a waste gas measuring device comprising a gas sampling device, a gas analysis device and at least one gas guiding member through which the waste gas can be guided along a gas path from the gas sampling device to the gas analysis device.

Abstract: Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is performed in a manner that thermalizes large analyte ions in a plume of desorbed material for spectroscopic analysis. The thermalized ions have a low or zero mean velocity and are presented at a well-defined instant in time, reducing artifacts and sharpening the spectral peaks. In one embodiment the light is delivered to a matrix or sample holder having a cover, baffle or compartment. The baffle or compartment impedes or contains a plume of desorbed material and the analyte undergoes collisions to lower its mean velocity and directionality. Thus “thermalized” the analyte ions are passed to a mass analysis instrument.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system for acoustically depositing a fluid on a surface of a cell sample. A reservoir containing a fluid is provided, and the cell sample surface is positioned in droplet-receiving relationship to the reservoir. Once the reservoir and the cell sample surface are appropriately positioned, focused acoustic energy is applied to eject a droplet of the fluid from the reservoir. As a result, the droplet is deposited on the sample surface at a designated site. Optionally, the fluid may be an analysis-enhancing fluid that contains a label moiety or a mass-spectrometry matrix material. When an analysis-enhancing fluid is used, the sample is typically subjected to conditions effective to allow the analysis-enhancing fluid to interact with the sample surface so as to render the sample surface suitable for analysis. Then, the sample may be analyzed at the designated site.

Abstract: The invention relates to a temperature-controlled injector for a chemical analysis unit, in particular a gas chromatograph, comprising an injector tube, which can be received by a receiving tube, having a cooling system, which surrounds the receiving tube, through which coolant can flow, which has coolant connections and which is designed as a metallic tube coil, and a resistance heating system for the injector tube, in which injector the receiving tube consists of a material of good thermal conductivity, is electrically insulating towards the outside, and the tube coil rests on the receiving tube, has an electrical resistance which is sufficient to rapidly heat the injector tube and can be acted on by current via electrical connection pieces.

Abstract: A device and a method for combined selection of a sample, grinding of the selected sample and presentation of the sample for an analysis system. The device includes a grinding chamber, a grinding device for grinding said sample in the grinding chamber, and a pressing device for compression of the sample in and output of the sample from the grinding chamber. The device further includes a first chamber opening for input of the sample into the grinding chamber, and a second chamber opening for the output of the sample from the grinding chamber, wherein the first chamber opening is separate from the second chamber opening.

Abstract: A method and device for forming large arrays of polymers on a substrate (401). According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the substrate is contacted by a channel block (407) having channels (409) therein. Selected reagents are delivered through the channels, the substrate is rotated by a rotating stage (403), and the process is repeated to form arrays of polymers on the substrate. The method may be combined with light-directed methodolgies.

Abstract: For measuring the concentration of a substance in body fluid, such as the glucose level in blood or tissue, a strip electrode (18) and a ring electrode (19) are arranged at the specimen. The ring electrode (19) is in direct electrical contact with the specimen while the strip electrode (18) is electrically insulated therefrom. The strip electrode (18) is arranged parallel to an arm or a leg for obtaining a large interaction length. The electrodes (18, 19) form a capacitor in a resonant circuit. A modulated voltage in the MHz range close to or at the resonance frequency is applied to the electrodes and the response of the body fluid is measured. This design allows a measurement of high accuracy.

Abstract: The invention relates to the efficient transport of a small volume of fluid, such as may be required by mass spectrometers and other devices configured to process and/or analyze small samples of biomolecular fluids. Such transport involves nozzleless acoustic ejection. In some instances, sample molecules contained in droplets of fluid are introduced from a reservoir into an ionization chamber of an analytical device. In other instances, sample molecules are introduced into a small capillary by directing focused acoustic radiation at a focal point near the surface of a fluid sample. In still other instances, acoustic ejection is used to form an array on a surface, wherein the features of the array are ionized for analysis. The invention may be used with microfluidic devices. Thus, the invention facilitates the processing and/or analysis of various types of samples, such as biomolecules having high molecular weights.

Abstract: An automated device that couples a pair of differently sized sample loops with a syringe pump and a source of degassed water. A fluid sample is mounted at an inlet port and delivered to the sample loops. A selected sample from the sample loops is diluted in the syringe pump with the degassed water and fed to a flow through detector for analysis. The sample inlet is also directly connected to the syringe pump to selectively perform analysis without dilution. The device is airtight and used to detect oxygen-sensitive species, such as dithionite in groundwater following a remedial injection to treat soil contamination.

Abstract: A method for selectively depositing analysis-enhancing fluid on a sample surface is disclosed. The method involves providing a sample having a surface that exhibits variations in a surface characteristic that corresponds to desirability for receiving an analysis-enhancing fluid. Once a site on the sample surface is selected according to the surface characteristic at the site, focused radiation, typically acoustic radiation, is applied in a manner effective to eject a droplet of the analysis-enhancing fluid from a reservoir. As a result, the droplet is deposited on the sample surface at the selected site. Optionally, the sample at the selected site is analyzed. Systems for selectively depositing analysis-enhancing fluids are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of preparing a liquid sample is provided. The method involves steps of: providing a pressurizable vessel that contains a liquid sample in a container, and a sample tube extending from beneath the surface of the liquid sample to a point outside of the vessel; introducing a purge gas into the vessel through a purge-gas inlet conduit, and simultaneously removing the gas atmosphere in the vessel through a purge-gas outlet conduit, thereby displacing the atmosphere in the pressurizable vessel; and pressurizing the vessel with the purge gas to transfer a portion of the liquid sample from the container through the sample tube. Also provided are apparatuses for preparing a liquid sample, as well as methods and apparatuses for performing an analytical measurement.

Abstract: An instrument provides a quantitative measurement of an analyte in a gas. It includes a detection cell that provides an indication of an amount of analyte present in the gas, and a valve having a closed position, a sample gas position, and a calibration gas position. There is a calibration gas inlet orifice in communication with a gas outlet through a first flow path including the valve and the detection cell, and a sample gas inlet orifice in communication with the gas outlet through a second flow path including a scrubber, the valve, and the detection cell. Two orifices of different sizes, a sample gas orifice along the second flow path, and a bypass orifice positioned between the sample gas orifice and the gas outlet, prevent a build up of excessive pressure in the instrument when the valve is in the closed position or the calibration gas position.

Abstract: A device and a method for combined selection of a sample, grinding of the selected sample and presentation of the sample for an analysis system. The device-includes a grinding chamber, a grinding device for grinding said sample in the grinding chamber, and a pressing device for compression of the sample in and output of the sample from the grinding chamber. The device further includes a first chamber opening for input of the sample into the grinding chamber, and a second chamber opening for the output of the sample from the grinding chamber, wherein the first chamber opening is separate from the second chamber opening.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sample handling device for an analytical device, comprising a sampler provided with a holder, a movable holding arm for the holder and a support for the holder, said support being arranged in a stationary manner with respect to the holding arm, said holder being transferable between a suspended position on the support and a position located on the holding arm and being releasable from the holding arm by a pulling force exerted by the holding arm substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the latter.

Abstract: An apparatus for controllably varying the sample volume for each of a plurality of sample lines used with air monitoring equipment is disclosed. The sample volume is varied depending on the compound or compounds of interest sampled through each line. The flow volume from each sample line is determined and controlled by proportional time that an electrically actuated valve is open for that sampling line.

Abstract: A fluid sampling device or system for providing a fluid to a fluid processing apparatus. The system includes a plurality of sampling lines, each having an inlet line and an outlet line connected by a valve. The valve has a closed position preventing a fluid flow between the two lines and an opened position allowing such a fluid flow. A first and a second purge line are provided, respectively connected to the inlet and outlet lines for purging fluid therefrom. Rotometers or other similar devices are provided for controlling each of the purge lines. A connecting line is provided for connecting each of the outlet lines to each other and to the outlet. In operation, one of the valves is opened and the others are closed. Fluid flows from the selected valve to the apparatus and backwards through the outlet lines of the unselected sampling channels, providing a backpurge of these outlet lines through the second purge lines.

Abstract: A gas detector having a sample flow path assembly capable of providing a sample air flow rate to a sensing device in excess of about 300 SCCM. The sample flow path assembly also provides the gas detector with a short signal path between the sensing device and a printed circuit board, an efficient sample path, and ready access to and easy replacement of the sensing device as well as easy replacement of the probe, making the gas detector generally more reliable and cost effective. The sample path assembly requires a simple method of construction and sensing device replacement thereby reducing the difficulty and the time required for manufacturing the sample flow path assembly and, ultimately, reducing the cost of manufacturing the leak detector.

Abstract: The invention relates to the efficient transport of a small fluid sample such as that may be required by analytical devices such as mass spectrometers configured to analyze small samples of biomolecular fluids. Such transport involves nozzleless acoustic ejection, wherein analyte molecules are introduced from a reservoir holding a fluid into an ionization chamber of an analytical device or a small capillary by directing focused acoustic radiation at a focal point near the surface of the fluid sample. This facilitates the analysis of various types of analytes such as biomolecular analytes having a high molecular weight.

Abstract: A system for analyzing particles including: a source of solid particles; a sampler apparatus attached to and integral with the source of solid particles which apparatus is adapted to enable removal of small amounts of sample material from the source; a sonication cell connected to the sampling apparatus which sonication cell receives, optionally conditions, and sonicates the small amounts of sample material; a sample analysis apparatus connected to the sonication cell which sample analysis apparatus is adapted to receive, optionally further condition, and analyze the resulting sonicated sample received from the sonication cell; and a liquid pump and liquid carrying lines adapted to: withdraw aliqouts from the source; convey a withdrawn aliqout to the sonication cell and sample analysis apparatus; and flush the system free of residual aliqout contamination.

Abstract: The current invention provides a device, and a method for using the device, for ensuring that a capillary or wicking fill device is fully filled. In particular this invention is directed to, but not limited to, use with capillary or wicking action filled electrochemical sensors suitable for use in analyzing blood or interstitial fluids.

Abstract: An integrated mesopump-sensor suitable for disposition in two- and three-dimensional arrays having small dimensions is disclosed. One mesopump is formed of an electrostatically attractable flexible diaphragm disposed through cavities or pumping chambers formed between two opposing electrostatically chargeable material layers. Fluid is pumped through the chambers by sequentially moving the diaphragm toward the first chargeable layer, then towards the second chargeable layer, which can pull and push the fluid through a series of chambers, and past the sensor. One group of sensors utilizes multiple and varied chemoresistive sensors which can vary in resistance differently in response to the presence of various analytes. Another group of sensors utilizes chemo-fluorescent sensors that fluoresce in the presence of particular analytes.

Abstract: A sampling device samples gas from a gas stream flowing through a tube to means utilizing the gas to detect the presence or otherwise of particulate contaminants. The device ensures that the sampled flow has at least as many particulate contaminants/unit volume as the main flow. The device divides the flow into two parallel flows and then decelerates one flow before providing the sampled flow. The other flow passes to the utilizing means. The device is particularly useful in the sterile packaging of product to detect microorganisms and other culturable contamination.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for filling sample chambers with liquid. The system includes a substrate defining the sample chambers and having a fill port, and a network of passageways connecting the sample chambers to the fill port. The system also includes a substrate support to retain the substrate in a fill position and a valve module on the substrate support. The valve module has a fill port seal opening to connect with the fill port of the substrate in the fill position, and a vacuum opening for connection to a source of vacuum. The system further includes a valve body having a liquid outlet port and a vacuum port, and means for operating the valve body so that the liquid outlet port and the vacuum port are alternately in fluid communication with the fill port seal opening.

Abstract: A device for carrying out solid phase microextraction is a fiber contained in a syringe. When it is desired to analyze a sample in a bottle having a septum, the needle is inserted through the septum and the plunger is depressed so that the fiber will extend into the sample. After one or two minutes, the plunger is moved to the withdrawn position so that the fiber will return to the needle and the syringe is withdrawn from the sample bottle. The syringe is then inserted through a septum in a gas injection port of a gas chromatograph. The plunger is again depressed so that the fiber will extend into the gas chromatograph and an analysis of the components on the fiber is carried out. Then, the plunger is moved to the withdrawn position and the syringe is withdrawn from the injection port.

Abstract: A wind deceleration and protective shroud that provides representative samples of ambient aerosols to an environmental continuous air monitor (ECAM) has a cylindrical enclosure mounted to an input on the continuous air monitor, the cylindrical enclosure having shrouded nozzles located radially about its periphery. Ambient air flows, often along with rainwater flows into the nozzles in a sampling flow generated by a pump in the continuous air monitor. The sampling flow of air creates a cyclonic flow in the enclosure that flows up through the cylindrical enclosure until the flow of air reaches the top of the cylindrical enclosure and then is directed downward to the continuous air monitor. A sloped platform located inside the cylindrical enclosure supports the nozzles and causes any moisture entering through the nozzle to drain out through the nozzles.

Abstract: Self-washing injection apparatus [101] for liquid chromatography injection valves utilizes an interior chamber [105] with a penetrable seal [109] at the top end of the chamber and a needle sleeve seal [113] at the bottom end of the interior chamber. A wash port [145] in the body [103] of the apparatus connects one or more sources of wash fluid to the interior chamber between the penetrable seal and the sleeve seal. The apparatus provides a simple and effective means to aspirate or pump wash fluids from one or more wash fluid reservoirs through the apparatus, the injection port of the injection valve, and associated components.

Abstract: A method of preparing a liquid sample is provided. The method involves steps of: providing a pressurizable vessel that contains a liquid sample in a container, and a sample tube extending from beneath the surface of the liquid sample to a point outside of the vessel; introducing a purge gas into the vessel through a purge-gas inlet conduit, and simultaneously removing the gas atmosphere in the vessel through a purge-gas outlet conduit, thereby displacing the atmosphere in the pressurizable vessel; and pressurizing the vessel with the purge gas to transfer a portion of the liquid sample from the container through the sample tube. Also provided are apparatuses for preparing a liquid sample, as well as methods and apparatuses for performing an analytical measurement.

Abstract: Devices for automatically feeding sample containers into and out of an analyzer. The device may include (1) a first station that receives and initiates transport of a sample container into an analyzer for analysis, (2) a second station where the sample container is handed off to a transporter that carries the sample container to and from an examination site inside the analyzer, and (3) a third station that collects the sample container after examination. The device also may include a singulation mechanism configured to separate a sample container from a stack of sample containers, and/or a stacking mechanism configured to add a sample container to a stack of sample containers. The singulation and stacking mechanisms may include lifter and latch components.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectively concentrating an analyte on an apparatus by evaporating solvent from the analyte. Concentration is performed by heating or by flowing a gas stream over the analyte to evaporate solvent from the analyte. The invention also provides a method to be used in conjunction with the apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting explosive-indicating compounds in subsurface soil. The apparatus has a probe with an adsorbent material on some portion of its surface that can be placed into soil beneath the ground surface, where the adsorbent material can adsorb at least one explosive-indicating compound. The apparatus additional has the capability to desorb the explosive-indicating compound through heating or solvent extraction. A diagnostic instrument attached to the probe detects the desorbed explosive-indicating compound. In the method for detecting explosive-indicating compounds in soil, the sampling probe with an adsorbent material on at least some portion of a surface of the sampling probe is inserted into the soil to contact the adsorbent material with the soil. The explosive-indicating compounds are then desorbed and transferred as either a liquid or gas sample to a diagnostic tool for analysis.

Abstract: The invention provides an analytical apparatus comprising: (i) supply means (14) for supplying a sample (30) to be analysed; (ii) analysing means (32, 36) for analysing at least one property of the sample (30) to be analysed; and (iii) conveying means (16) for conveying the sample (30) between the supply means (14) and the analysing means (32, 36) wherein the conveying means (16) comprises an oxidized surface (18) layer which receives the sample (30). Preferably the conveying means (16) is a wire or tape, such as titanium.

Abstract: A microanalysis device having a plurality of sample processing compartments is described for use in liquid phase analysis. A microanalysis device system, comprising a plurality of interconnected microanalysis devices. The device is formed by microfabrication of microstructures in novel support substrates. The invention herein can be used for the analysis of small and/or macromolecular and/or other solutes in the liquid phase.

Abstract: A sample introduction device is provided that is particularly useful in the critical care environment for the anaerobic withdrawal of small volumes of arterial blood from a sample collection syringe and introduction thereof into a sample chamber of a sensor for analysis. The sample introduction device includes a Luer fitting adapted to mate an outlet of the container in a concentric orientation with an input aperture of the sample chamber. A tubular probe is adapted for concentric placement with both the outlet and inlet aperture, with a first end thereof extending into the syringe and a second end adapted for attachment to an air supply. The probe has a predetermined diameter sufficient to provide an annular clearance between the probe and each of the outlet and inlet aperture. A predetermined volume of air is injected through the probe into the container to displace a predetermined volume of sample therefrom, through the annular clearance into the sample chamber.

Abstract: A method for analyzing a sample of a steel melt taken from a metallurgical vessel includes taking a sample in a measuring probe, inserting the measuring probe into a holder, and severing the measuring probe at a position of the measuring probe at which the sample is held for producing a measuring probe stub with a severed sample part. The measuring probe stub with the severed sample part is then positioned at an analyzer for analysis. The measuring probe also includes a region for holding slag from the steel melt in the metallurgical vessel.