Abstract:
There is disclosed a sample mixing system having a multiplicity of sample containers into which are inserted magnetic stirring rods. Each of a pair of pole pieces is connected to an alternating current electromagnet between which pole pieces the sample containers are positioned to intercept the alternating magnetic field generated by the electromagnet causing the magnetic stirring rods to move, thereby stirring the contents of the containers.
Abstract:
A movable body member having a series of ratchet teeth is intermittently coupled to a driving force which moves the body member. A ratchet arm is precisely mounted adjacent the series of ratchet teeth to engage the series of teeth when the body member is decoupled from the driving force. A restoring force is applied to the body member to press the ratchet arm firmly against each ratchet tooth with which it comes in contact, thereby precisely locating the body member in a series of mechanical positions. A ratchet spring forces the ratchet arm to engage each tooth of the series of ratchet teeth as each tooth moves adjacent to the arm. A device is provided for restraining the ratchet arm from engaging the ratchet teeth after the last tooth in the series of ratchet teeth is passed. The ratchet arm is restrained until the body member is returned by the restoring force to an initial position where the ratchet arm is released from the restraint and engaged with the ratchet teeth whereby the series of mechanical movements may be repeated.