Abstract: A specimen-transport module adapted for use with each of a plurality of specimen-processing instruments of a multi-instrument clinical workcell. Such module is adapted to transport individual racks of specimen-containers relative to a specimen-aspiration probe of an associated instrument in a workcell, as well as to transfer selected racks of specimen-containers to an adjacent and identical specimen-transport module associated with another clinical instrument of the workcell. Since the same transport system is used to both present specimens for aspiration and to transfer specimens between instruments, there is no need for two independent conveyances as is characteristic of the prior art. Preferably, the specimen-transport module includes a magnetic X/Y transport system that operates beneath a rack-supporting surface to advance racks in mutually perpendicular directions across a supporting surface via magnetic forces.

Abstract: A specimen-transport module adapted for use with each of a plurality of specimen-processing instruments of a multi-instrument clinical workcell. Such module is adapted to transport individual racks of specimen-containers relative to a specimen-aspiration probe of an associated instrument in a workcell, as well as to transfer selected racks of specimen-containers to an adjacent and identical specimen-transport module associated with another clinical instrument of the workcell. Since the same transport system is used to both present specimens for aspiration and to transfer specimens between instruments, there is no need for two independent conveyances as is characteristic of the prior art. Preferably, the specimen-transport module includes a magnetic X/Y transport system that operates beneath a rack-supporting surface to advance racks in mutually perpendicular directions across a supporting surface via magnetic forces.

Abstract: Apparatus for aspirating liquid from a container, e.g., a test tube, having a puncturable stopper includes a pair of stepper motors that share a common linear actuator or drive member. One motor operates to axially advance the linear drive member (preferably a lead screw) to a position in which it serves to position a rigidly connected tube-detector/stripper member in engagement with the top of a stopper on a tube. Thereafter, the second motor operates to move along the surface of the same drive member to advance an aspiration probe through the engaged stopper and into a liquid aspirating position within the tube. Preferably, a linear guide rail, slidably-mounted on a frame that supports the liquid-aspirating apparatus, serves to guide both the movement of the aspiration probe and the linear drive member. As a result of the shared components, the apparatus is highly precise and reliable.

Abstract: A magnetic specimen-transport system for transporting racks of specimen-containers to or within an automated clinical instrument for analysis and/or processing. The magnetic specimen-transport system that is adapted to transport magnetically-attractable racks of specimen-containers in mutually perpendicular (X/Y) directions across a rack-supporting surface, whereby the racks can be transported among various non-linearly aligned positions on such surface.

Abstract: A specimen-transport module adapted for use with each of a plurality of specimen-processing instruments of a multi-instrument clinical workcell. Such module is adapted to transport individual racks of specimen-containers relative to a specimen-aspiration probe of an associated instrument in a workcell, as well as to transfer selected racks of specimen-containers to an adjacent and identical specimen-transport module associated with another clinical instrument of the workcell. Since the same transport system is used to both present specimens for aspiration and to transfer specimens between instruments, there is no need for two independent conveyances as is characteristic of the prior art. Preferably, the specimen-transport module includes a magnetic X/Y transport system that operates beneath a rack-supporting surface to advance racks in mutually perpendicular directions across a supporting surface via magnetic forces.

Abstract: A magnetically-attractive specimen-container rack for use with a magnetic transport system for transporting racks of specimen-containers to or within an automated clinical instrument for analysis and/or processing. The specimen-container rack comprises a pair of U-shaped magnetically-attractive members mounted in the base section of the rack housing so that the distal ends of such members extend towards the base of the rack and terminate in a plane slightly short of the plane in which the rack is supported for movement atop a rack-supporting surface. Such members are adapted to cooperate with similarly-shaped permanent magnets carried by an X/Y-movable truck that underlies a non-magnetic rack-supporting plate.

Abstract: A magnetic specimen-transport system for transporting racks of specimen-containers to or within an automated clinical instrument for analysis and/or processing. The magnetic specimen-transport system that is adapted to transport magnetically-attractable racks of specimen-containers in mutually perpendicular (X/Y) directions across a rack-supporting surface, whereby the racks can be transported among various non-linearly aligned positions on such surface.

Abstract: A specimen carrier comprises a unitary structure for receiving and retaining a specimen container in an upright orientation. Such unitary structure is defined by a pedestal having upper and lower platforms connected by a stem. Extending upwardly from the upper platform is a plurality of rigid members which support a plurality of opposing flexible fingers adapted to engage and press upon the side wall of a specimen container received by the carrier. Preferably, the specimen carrier of the invention has a chamber formed therein for housing a pre-programmed, programmable or otherwise radio-frequency (RF) identification tag in the form of an RF transponder. Upon being energized by a suitable RF field provided by an RF reader antenna or sensor positioned adjacent the carrier's intended path of movement, the tag transmits a unique identification code, such code being received by the antenna or sensor and decoded by the reader.