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: A conveyor shuttle having a conveyor belt for conveying textiles across a wash alley from a washing machine (selected from among a plurality of washing machines) to a drying machine (selected from among a plurality of drying machines). The shuttle travels along the work alley among and between the washing machines and the drying machines. Some embodiments further include guide hardware to help guide soiled laundry into the washing machine. Some embodiments include an operator platform and an operator control system so that a human user can ride on the shuttle and help control various wash alley functions.

Abstract: A conveyor shuttle having a conveyor belt for conveying textiles across a wash alley from a washing machine (selected from among a plurality of washing machines) to a drying machine (selected from among a plurality of drying machines). The shuttle travels along the work alley among and between the washing machines and the drying machines. Some embodiments further include guide hardware to help guide soiled laundry into the washing machine. Some embodiments include an operator platform and an operator control system so that a human user can ride on the shuttle and help control various wash alley functions.

Abstract: Raw sheet metal substrate (36) passing through an extrusion die (54) is partially laminated with a thin film of plastic (40). A boundary line (42) is formed between the laminated and unlaminated portions of the substrate (36). The sheet metal substrate (36) is folded upon itself so that the plastic laminate (40) bears in pressing relation against the unlaminated portion of the substrate (36) to create a fold (44) sealed against lateral moisture penetration. The unlaminated portion of the substrate (36) may be chrome plated (50). The extrusion die (54) includes an adjustable die member (64) and an adjustable wear plate (78). Alternatively, the extrusion die (54) may include an adjustable extrusion orifice (62) for varying the thickness of the plastic extruded onto the sheet metal substrate (36). Two sheet metal substrates (36') are moved through the extrusion die (54') simultaneously and in back-to-back relation to neutralize reaction forces from the respective emissions of pressurized plastic.