Abstract: The embodiments disclosed relate to determination of an item of interest in a sample. One embodiment relates to a structure which comprises a process path. The process path comprises a process lane including a process step performance lane where a process step is performed, and a process step avoidance lane where the process step is avoided. A first prime mover is operatively connected with the process path for moving a container holding the sample along the process path. A first pipetting system is operatively associated with the process path for introducing the sample to the container. A second pipetting system is operatively associated with the process path for introducing a reagent to the container. A device is operatively connected with the process path and is selectively engagable with the container for mixing the sample and the reagent in the container.

Abstract: The embodiments disclosed relate to determination of an item of interest in a sample. In one method, a process path comprising a process lane including a process step performance lane where a process step is performed, and a process step avoidance lane where the process step is avoided is provided. A container holding the sample is moved along the process path. The sample is introduced to the container. A reagent is introduced to the container. The sample and the reagent are mixed in the container. The container is selectively positioned in a selected one of the process step performance lane and the process step avoidance lane. The item of interest in the sample is determined based upon a reaction between the sample and the reagent.

Abstract: A tactile sensing tool positioning system for positioning a tool normal to the surface of a curved workpiece is disclosed. The tool positioning system of the present invention includes a steel frame for rigidly supporting a cutting tool having a longitudinal cutting implement, such as a drill bit or countersink bit. The steel frame includes a steel collar which is normal to the axis of the cutting implement and which supports a deformable ring of polyurethane or other resilient material. A plurality of aluminum cylinder positioning sensors are imbedded into the steel collar and surrounded by the deformable ring with one end of each aluminum cylinder positioning sensor contiguous with the exposed surface of the deformable ring. The axial loading experienced by each aluminum cylinder positioning sensor is measured by an associated strain gauge, and a quadrature circuit is then utilized to balance the forces on the aluminum cylinder positioning sensors and normalize the longitudinal cutting implement.