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 conveyance 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 coordinating 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 storage and retrieval apparatus including a robotic device capable of gripping items stored in the apparatus and delivering the item to a separate, proximate instrument. The items to be stored are loaded from the outside of the apparatus at each face of the hexagonal or octagonal shaped storage carousel. The storage carousel, which can be manually rotated, is mounted on a stationary base, both structures including a hollow core. The robotic device includes slider bars within the core of the apparatus and is rotatable about the central axis of the apparatus. The robotic device is capable of translating vertically, telescoping horizontally, rotating and gripping an item stored at a desired location within the storage carousel. Upon retrieval of a desired item, the robotic device will proceed to retract and translate downward to an aperture within the base. The item is transferred to an adjacent instrument through the aperture using the telescopic arm of the robotic device.

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 storage and retrieval apparatus including a robotic device capable of gripping items stored in the apparatus and delivering the item to a separate, proximate instrument. The items to be stored are loaded from the outside of the apparatus at each face of the hexagonal or octagonal shaped storage carousel. The storage carousel, which can be manually rotated, is mounted on a stationary base, both structures including a hollow core. The robotic device includes slider bars within the core of the apparatus and is rotatable about the central axis of the apparatus. The robotic device is capable of translating vertically, telescoping horizontally, rotating and gripping an item stored at a desired location within the storage carousel. Upon retrieval of a desired item, the robotic device will proceed to retract and translate downward to an aperture within the base. The item is transferred to an adjacent instrument through the aperture using the telescopic arm of the robotic device.