Abstract: A method and system for planning and optimizing the movement of a robotic device comprises establishing a plurality of spatial locations where the device can possibly be positioned and establishing rule sets for constraining movement of the robotic device between the locations. Once a start and end point have been determined, the method of the invention calculates all possible routes for the device to move, via the established locations and following the constraints of the rule sets. The calculated routes are then compared to a criteria, such as minimizing time, and an optimum route, meeting the desired criteria is determined. The calculated routes may also be cached for future access. The invention also provides for an error recovery method for allowing a robotic device to recover should it encounter an error.

Abstract: A reconfigurable automated system is provided. The system comprises a backbone including a plurality of docking ports, at least one module including a connector for releasably coupling the module to the backbone, and a motion unit, connected to the backbone, for providing an object to the module when the module is coupled to the backbone. The module connector and one of the docking ports form a connection interface, including a mechanical alignment device and an electrical connection, when the module is operationally coupled to the backbone.

Abstract: A method of processing objects using a bilateral architecture. The method comprises the steps of: arranging a plurality of instruments around a bi-directional conveyance device, the instruments spaced at fixed pitch intervals along the conveyor device; assigning dedicated movers to each of the instruments, the dedicated movers for loading and unloading of the objects to and from the instruments and the conveyance device; and controlling the operation of the conveyance device to have an interrupted motion, the interrupted motion for co-ordinating the loading and unloading of the objects; wherein the dedicated movers are positioned such that adjacent movers operate independently of one another. The method can be operated on an automated robotic system having a modular architecture.

Abstract: A conveyor system for moving articles, such as microtiter plates and the like, includes an endless belt with dividing ribs spaced to accommodate and position the plates to be moved. The belt is driven by a servo motor.

Abstract: A conveyor system for moving articles, such as microtiter plates and the like, includes an endless belt with dividing ribs spaced to accommodate and position the plates to be moved. The belt is driven by a servo motor.