Abstract: A processing unit for automated preparation of biological samples included in specimen tubes is described herein. The processing unit includes a removable sample preparation component configured to receive specimen tubes, read identifiers associated with the biological samples contained in the specimen tubes, mix reagents included in the specimen tubes, and transfer the specimen tubes to at least one of a centrifuge or a storage compartment. The processing unit further includes a centrifuge loader for automatic loading and unloading of the specimen tubes onto a centrifuge. The automated centrifuge loader includes a magnetic brake that can stop the centrifuge rotor at a precise position to facilitate loading and unloading of a specimen tube. The centrifuge includes a swing bucket designed to pivot around an axis and slide vertically to enable moving the bucket to a position in which the swing bucket can engage with the port where the specimen tube resides.

Abstract: A refrigerated carrier device that can maintain biological samples including capillary blood samples at refrigerated temperatures is described herein. The carrier includes an insulated phase change material (PCM) that can be pre-chilled to maintain biological samples at a refrigerated temperature (e.g., 2-8° C.) while the carrier is in transit and/or temporary storage protecting the samples from degradation. The use of PCM enables the temperature to be kept reliably between 2-8° C., avoiding temperature excursions, and eliminating the need for a compressor or thermoelectric device at the point of collection, which can reduce costs and risks related to heat, noise, condensation, and sample degradation due to power outages. The carrier device can be removable from a Sample Preparation system, which enables it to double as refrigerated storage at the point of collection and during transportation.

Abstract: A processing unit for automated preparation of biological samples included in specimen tubes is described herein. The processing unit includes a removable sample preparation component configured to receive specimen tubes, read identifiers associated with the biological samples contained in the specimen tubes, mix reagents included in the specimen tubes, and transfer the specimen tubes to at least one of a centrifuge or a storage compartment. The processing unit further includes a centrifuge loader for automatic loading and unloading of the specimen tubes onto a centrifuge. The automated centrifuge loader includes a magnetic brake that can stop the centrifuge rotor at a precise position to facilitate loading and unloading of a specimen tube. The centrifuge includes a swing bucket designed to pivot around an axis and slide vertically to enable moving the bucket to a position in which the swing bucket can engage with the port where the specimen tube resides.

Abstract: A processing unit for automated preparation of biological samples included in specimen tubes is described herein. The processing unit includes a removable sample preparation component configured to receive specimen tubes, read identifiers associated with the biological samples contained in the specimen tubes, mix reagents included in the specimen tubes, and transfer the specimen tubes to at least one of a centrifuge or a storage compartment. The processing unit further includes a centrifuge loader for automatic loading and unloading of the specimen tubes onto a centrifuge. The automated centrifuge loader includes a magnetic brake that can stop the centrifuge rotor at a precise position to facilitate loading and unloading of a specimen tube. The centrifuge includes a swing bucket designed to pivot around an axis and slide vertically to enable moving the bucket to a position in which the swing bucket can engage with the port where the specimen tube resides.

Abstract: Systems and methods for color calibrating an image are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes disposing a unique identifier and a fiducial marker that includes a plurality of color regions on an object. A first image of the object is captured with a first camera and a second image of the object that is captured with a second camera is received. The second image is associated with the first image based on the unique identifier and spectral information of at least a portion of the fiducial marker in the second image is compared with spectral information of at least the portion of the fiducial marker in the first image. Based on the comparison, the second image is resampled to substantially match at least the portion of the fiducial marker in the second image to at least the portion of the fiducial marker in the first image.

Abstract: Systems and methods for color calibrating an image are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes disposing a unique identifier and a fiducial marker that includes a plurality of color regions on an object. A first image of the object is captured with a first camera and a second image of the object that is captured with a second camera is received. The second image is associated with the first image based on the unique identifier and spectral information of at least a portion of the fiducial marker in the second image is compared with spectral information of at least the portion of the fiducial marker in the first image. Based on the comparison, the second image is resampled to substantially match at least the portion of the fiducial marker in the second image to at least the portion of the fiducial marker in the first image.

Abstract: An unloading device for removing a workpiece from a lathe having a spindle for holding the workpiece includes an unloading apparatus for receiving the workpiece configured to couple to the spindle. A pneumatic system is coupled to the unloading apparatus whereby air flow acts on the workpiece and causes the workpiece to exit the spindle and travel to the unloading apparatus. The unloading apparatus extends into a machining chamber of the lathe to couple to the spindle. A downstream end of the unloading apparatus is configured to create a venturi effect. A workpiece receiving tray is located downstream of the unloading apparatus. After exiting the unloading apparatus the workpiece is directed against a damper. A safety door is located between the unloading apparatus and the damper. The unloading device has a footprint of a limited dimension permitting use of the unloading device with a chip conveyor.