1. A method for sensing at least one rheological characteristic of a fluid sample comprising the steps of: a) providing at least one assembly including: i) a means for holding a fluid sample; ii) a fluid flow element providing a flow path for said fluid sample, said fluid flow element having channels terminating at a first end adapted for removing said fluid sample from said holding means; and iii) at least one sensing element for said fluid sample in said fluid flow element with a wall transparent to electromagnetic radiation; b) providing a means for flowing a portion of said fluid sample into said sensing element; c) providing a means for illuminating said sensing element with electromagnetic radiation; d) providing a means of capturing at least one image of said sensing element using said electromagnetic radiation; e) flowing said fluid sample out of said holding means; f) flowing said fluid sample into said sensing element; g) capturing at least one image of said sensing element; and h) sensing the at least one rheological characteristic.