Abstract: Automated insertion of pins (14) into apertures (12) in a backplane (10) is achieved by first shearing a predetermined number of pins from a continuous strip of pins (26). The sheared pins (12) are then engaged in a pin holder (134) which is indexed to locate the pins in registration with the apertures (12) in the backplane (10). The pin holder (134) is displaced towards the backplane (10) to insert the pins (14) into the apertures (12). As the pins are inserted, they are simultaneously engaged by a pair of guide fingers (244) which travel therewith to guide the engaged pins into the apertures without interfering with any previously inserted pins. The guide fingers disengage themselves from the pins once insertion thereof is substantially completed. An apparatus (10) is also described for carrying the above-described steps in sequence.

Abstract: Method and apparatus to characterize and classify neutral particles based on the non-translational motion of said particles in a directionally oriented electric field which as a function of time changes its orientation in space. More particularly, a method and apparatus is disclosed whereby the direction and magnitude of non-translational motion relative to the directionally varying external field can be determined.

Abstract: A contact insertion machine (50) having a base (52) with an X, Y, .theta. table (54) thereon and a superstructure (56) hingeably mounted on the base for movement towards and away from the table (54). The superstructure (56) has a plurality of contact strip feed reels (78) which sequentially feeds the strips (42) to each of a plurality of insertion heads (80). A tray (68) containing a multitude of connector housings (16) is positioned on the X, Y, .theta. table (54) and the superstructure (56) moved towards the tray until the heads (80) are in close, spaced relation to the connectors in the tray. The heads (80) are activated to simultaneously insert a contact (30) into each of a plurality of different connector housings (16). The contacts (30) are simultaneously inserted sequentially into a different sector of connectors until contacts have been inserted into predetermined cavities 28--28 in the connector housings (16).

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of use thereof are provided for fusing neutral polarizable biological bodies and sorting neutral polarizable biological bodies by imposing them to a non-uniform electric field. The dielectrophoretic effect of the non-uniform electric field will either impose variable displacements of the types of cells to facilitate sorting, or will align cells contiguously between a pair of electrodes in preparation for fusion. To fuse the cells the aligned cells are exposed to a direct current impulse.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of use thereof are provided for fusing neutral polarizable biological bodies and sorting neutral polarizable biological bodies by imposing them to a non-uniform electric field. The dielectrophoretic effect of the non-uniform electric field will either impose variable displacements of the types of cells to facilitate sorting, or will align cells contiguously between a pair of electrodes in preparation for fusion. To fuse the cells the aligned cells are exposed to a direct current impulse.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for classifying, characterizing, or sorting neutral particles, cells or their parts are disclosed. The apparatus and method are based upon both the positive and negative dielectrophoretic movement of neutral particles, cells, microorganisms or organalles when subjected to a nonuniform electric field generated between two electrodes, the exterior surfaces of which are separated by not more than 900 microns. The apparatus and method are particularly applicable with low conductivity suspensions of living cells or their parts.