Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus for use in and for assisting the visual assessment by a human operator of test objects, in each of which test objects a multiplicity of test locations each has one or more visible characteristics capable of exhibiting any one of a number of conditions to be assessed (e.g. a prepared microtiter plate or tray having an array of test locations or wells in which a series of microbial cultures or biological or chemical tests has been carried out leading to results to be optically or visually assessed, e.g. in terms of turbidity and/or color), the apparatus comprising: (a) means for illuminating each of the test locations of the test object (either with sufficient light to enable the operator to see and assess the test location against a background of darkness, or with an indicator light sufficient to draw the operator's attention to the test location against a general background light); (b) means for positively locating the test object in registration with the illuminating means; (c) means for controlling the illuminating means so that all of the test locations can be selectively illuminated, either singly or in groups, according to a program-determined sequence; and (d) means to enable the operator manually to actuate and control stepping along the sequence.

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First Claim