Sample transport unit for a diagnostic machine

A transport unit for sample containers which enclose samples to be analysed by an automatic diagnosis unit, the unit comprising:

• a transportation route of racks of samples, said route extending according to a first direction (A), said route comprising a first end adapted to receive a rack of samples from a first rack handling device and comprising a second end adapted to transmit a rack of samples to a second rack handling device;
• a mobile platter comprising a positioning surface extending in a plane;
• an analysis zone arranged inside the positioning surface, and a waiting zone arranged inside the positioning surface, the analysis zone and the waiting zone being both adapted to receive a rack of samples and being both offset from the transportation route;
• a separating surface passing through a centre of the platter, said separating surface being configured to prevent uncontrolled passage of a sample container towards the analysis zone during analysis of a sample,
• a rack slider configured to move a rack of samples between the transportation route and the waiting zone;
• wherein the platter is configured to displace a rack along the plane in order to allow out-and-return movements of said rack in both directions between the waiting zone and the analysis zone.