Automatic analyser

摘要

The structure embodiments disclosed relate to determination of an item of interest in a sample. One embodiment relates to a structure which comprises a process path (10). The process path (10) comprises a process lane (28) including a process step performance lane (62) where a process step is performed, and a process step avoidance lane (64) where the process step is avoided. A first prime mover (24) is operatively connected with the process path (10) for moving a container (15) holding the sample along the process path (10). A first pipetting system (198) is operatively associated with the process path (10) for introducing the sample to the container (15). A second pipetting system (132, 134) is operatively associated with the process path (10) for introducing a reagent to the container (15). A device (86) is operatively connected with the process path (10) and is selectively engagable with the container (15) for mixing the sample and the reagent in the container (15). A second prime mover (44) is operatively connected with the process path (10) for selectively positioning the container (15) in a selected one of the process step performance lane (62) and the process step avoidance lane (64). A reader (138) is operatively connected with the process path (10) for determining the item of interest in the sample based upon a reaction between the sample and the reagent. The method embodiments disclosed relate to determination of an item of interest in a sample. In one method, a process path (10) comprising a process lane (28) including a process step performance lane (62) where a process step is performed, and a process step avoidance lane (64) where the process step is avoided is provided. A container (15) holding the sample is moved along the process path (10). The sample is introduced to the container (15). A reagent is introduced to the container (15). The sample and the reagent are mixed in the container (15). The container (15) is selectively positioned in a selected one of the process step performance lane (62) and the process step avoidance lane (64). The item of interest in the sample is determined based upon a reaction between the sample and the reagent.