Fluid handling apparatus for an automated analyzer

A reagent transport apparatus for use in a clinical analyzer, comprising:

• a plurality of agitating assemblies disposed collectively for selective rotational movement along a first circular path concentric with a primary vertical axis of rotation, each of the agitating assemblies having a respective vertical axis, being rotatable about the respective vertical axis, and being adapted to receive a respective first reagent container containing a reagent of a first type for rotating the respective first reagent container about the vertical axis of the respective agitating assembly, the respective vertical axes of the agitating assemblies forming secondary vertical axes of rotation;
• a plurality of mounting assemblies disposed collectively for selective rotation along a second circular path concentric with the primary vertical axis of rotation, each of the mounting assemblies having a respective vertical axis and being fixed in rotational position in relation to the respective vertical axis;
• an agitating motor for rotating each of the plurality of agitating assemblies about the respective vertical axis;
• and
• a circular gear concentric with the primary vertical axis of rotation and coupled to the agitating motor,
• wherein each of the agitating assemblies comprises a holder for each respective first reagent container, each holder being disposed for rotation about the respective secondary vertical axis of rotation, and a satellite gear in communication with each holder for the first reagent containers, each satellite gear being concentric with the respective secondary vertical axis of rotation,
• wherein the circular gear is rotatable by the agitating motor and in driving engagement with each of the satellite gears, whereby rotation of the circular gear about the primary vertical axis of rotation causes each of the satellite gears to rotate about the respective secondary vertical axis of rotation, and
• wherein each of the mounting assemblies is adapted for receiving a respective second reagent container containing a reagent of a second type.