Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the orientation of an observer vehicle with respect to a radiative target. The apparatus comprises a gnomon, a radiation sensor assembly and conventional electronic hardware for measuring the output of the radiation sensor assembly. The radiation sensor assembly is divided into four quadrants each having an equal number of sensor element which emit a current in the presence of radiation. The individual currents from each respective sector are summed by said conventional electronic hardware to provide the orientation/angular relationship between the radiative target and the apparatus.