An automatic analyzer which realizes stable reagent heating and high dispensing accuracy includes a thermostat bath for controlling a reagent or a reaction solution in reaction cells arranged on a circumference of a reaction disk to have a constant temperature; a first reagent dispensing mechanism dispenses a reagent into the reaction cells; a photometer detects transmitted light or scattered light in the reaction cell; and a disposable reaction container for allowing the sample and the reagent to mix and react with each other. The analyzer also includes a second reagent dispensing mechanism with a reagent heating function which dispenses the reagent into the disposable reaction container; a coagulation time detection section; a reaction container temperature control block; a reagent dispensing syringe which is connected to the second reagent dispensing mechanism; and a fluid temperature control mechanism which controls the temperature of an internal fluid of the reagent dispensing syringe.

Thermal control devices utilizing a thermal switch to facilitate cooling of a biological sample, particularly a biological sample tested with a semiconductor diagnostic detection chip. Such thermal switches can include a mass of thermally conductive material, such as copper or aluminum, that selectively contacts the diagnostic chip or sample tube by use of an air cylinder or a servo-driven moveable support. Alternatively, the thermal switch can utilize a thermally conductive material that selectively contacts the diagnostic chip or sample tube by use of an inflatable bladder. Alternatively, the thermal switch can utilize a voice coil and a heat sink to selectively contact the diagnostic chip. The thermal control device can further include thermal overshoot feature, such as an air blower or placement of a heat sink in close proximity to the chip or tube. Associated methods of assembly and use of thermal control devices are also provided herein.

Provided is an automatic analysis device that can suppress the occurrence of condensation in a reagent cool box and can immediately drain the condensation water generated by introducing outside air. In an automatic analysis device including a reagent cool box that stores a plurality of reagent vessels while keeping the reagent vessels cool, the reagent cool box includes a drain for discharging the condensation water generated inside the reagent cool box, and an outside air introduction path that guides air outside the reagent cool box to the inside, wherein the outside air introduction path is provided along a bottom surface of the reagent cool box, and an outside air discharge port is formed toward an upper opening unit of the drain.

In one embodiment, a biological sample analyzer has a housing having at least one outer wall that defines a cavity therein. A receptacle, which can support a consumable holder containing a biological sample, is disposed within the cavity. At least one heater applies heat to the consumable holder when the consumable holder is supported by the receptacle. At least one heater sensor detects a temperature of the receptacle over time. A controller directs the at least one heater to apply an elevated temperature to the consumable holder and reduces an amount of heat applied to the consumable holder before the consumable holder exceeds a target temperature that is less than the elevated temperature. By applying the elevated temperature, the consumable holder can be heated quicker than if it where heated at only the target temperature.