Abstract: The present invention is directed to the method and apparatus for the robotic harvesting of solids from liquids as exemplified by harvesting protein crystals. Further, the present invention is directed to a fluid/solid management system in a chamber that automates the task of solid harvesting. The fluid/solid management system includes two supporting structures for at least one pipette on one structure and a second pipette on the other structure, the two pipettes in tip-to-tip alignment. The pipettes each having a drop of liquid at the end thereof are moved apart to form a liquid bridge in which the solid crystal is isolated. A robotic arm has a device on the end thereof for the harvesting of the solid at the working point between the tips of the pipettes. The system has a flash freezing system in the chamber for the safe storage of the harvested solid.

Abstract: A small and light weight microconical interface fitting may be attached to the surface of a space vehicle or equipment to provide an attachment device for an astronaut or robot to capture the space vehicle or equipment. The microconical interface fitting of the present invention has an axisymmetrical conical body having a base portion with a torque reaction surface for preventing rotation of the interface grasping tool; a cavitated, sunken or hollowed out intermediate locking portion which has a cavity shaped for receiving the latches of the grasping tool and an upper guiding portion for guiding the grasping tool into axial alignment with the microconical interface fitting. The capture is accomplished with an interface grasping tool. The grasping tool comprises an outer sleeve with a handle attached, an inner sleeve which may be raised and lowered within the outer sleeve with a plurality of latches supported at the lower end and a cam to raise and lower the inner sleeve.