Apparatus for analysis of samples of fluids

Apparatus comprising an analyzer for conducting measurements of properties of samples of physiological fluids involving transmission of electrical signals by the analyzer, and a reagent liquid storage vessel mountable on the analyzer, said analyzer comprising a fluid conduit system comprising a sample inlet section, a measuring section positioned downstream of the inlet section, a reagent liquid conduit, and means for directing a flow of reagent liquid from the reagent liquid storage vessel and through the measurement section after discharge of a sample therefrom, said directing means comprising a reagent liquid input mechanism for directing a flow of reagent liquid from the storage vessel through the reagent liquid conduit to the measurement section, said analyzer further comprising support means capable of supporting the liquid storage vessel in position for co-operation with said reagent liquid input mechanism, and pump means arranged in the fluid conduit system for pumping reagent liquid from the storage vessel to the measurement section, said storage vessel having a sealed laterally facing outlet aperture, the support means supporting the storage vessel in position for use with the laterally facing outlet aperture toward the top of the vessel and positioned relative to the input mechanism for aligning said input mechanism with said laterally facing outlet aperture, said storage vessel having an internal liquid conduit extending from the aperture into the liquid near to the bottom of the vessel, said input mechanism of the apparatus comprising an open ended tube fixed with respect to the analyzer and extending from the analyzer for penetrating the aperture seal of the laterally facing outlet aperture as the storage vessel is mounted on the analyzer and for communicating with said liquid conduit inside the storage vessel, the reagent liquid conduit of the analyzer, the open ended tube and the liquid conduit of the vessel thereby providing a continuous channel for liquid from the vessel to the measurement section.