Assay module transport apparatus for use in an automated analytical instrument

Claim 1

An automated analytical instrument for use in conducting assays for a component of interest in a fluid sample, said automated analytical instrument comprising: a) an assay module supply unit for holding magazines, said magazines including open-faced vessels wherein a supply of assay modules are disposed at different vertical levels, and each of said open-faced vessels having a layer of material covering an open face thereof; b) a testing system for assaying a fluid sample for a component of interest using an assay module; c) an assay module transport assembly for transporting an assay module from said assay module supply unit to said testing system, said assay module transport assembly comprising i) an assay module receiving platform disposed next to said assay module supply unit for receiving an assay module removed from said assay module supply unit, ii) an assay module ejector mechanism for pushing an assay module from said assay module supply unit onto said assay module receiving platform, iii) an assay module transfer mechanism for transferring an assay module from said assay module receiving platform to said testing system; iv) a cutter assembly for cutting said layer of material so as to permit access to said assay module disposed within said open-faced vessel, said cutter assembly being carried by said assay module receiving platform; v) means for moving said assay module receiving platform and said cutter assembly vertically and means for moving said assay module ejector mechanism vertically whereby said assay modules disposed at different vertical levels in said assay module supply unit may be accessed; and d) a microprocessor for controlling the operation of said automated analytical instrument.