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 method and apparatus for applying a liquid pipe dope to the threads of pipes including a metering cup for receiving the threads of a pipe in combination with a reciprocal pump that pumps the liquid pipe dope to the metering cup when the pipe is pushed into the metering cup; and then the pipe is further pushed downwardly to reciprocate the pump, causing flow of the liquid pipe dope to the threads via metering apertures.

Abstract: An improved fluid applicator apparatus for coating the ends of pipes, studs, bolts, dowels, drill steel and other cylindrical stock having different diameters; wherein, the apparatus comprises two nested apertured cup members captively engaged between a retaining ring member and a viscous fluid filled receptacle member; wherein the retaining ring member is releasably attached to the collar member; wherein the apertures of the cup members are angularly opposed, and, wherein the cup members may be readily rotated with respect to one another in order to adjust the degree of registry of the apertures.

Abstract: A pipe dope applicator apparatus (10) for coating the threaded ends (201) of pipes (200) having different diameters; wherein, the apparatus (10) comprises a plurality of nesting apertured cup members (20) retained within the cap member (50) of the apparatus (10); and, at least one apertured cup member (20) captively engaged between a collar member (40) and a dope filled tube member (30); wherein, the collar member (40) is releasably attached to the tube member (30), and the cap member (50) is releasably attached to the collar member (40); and, wherein the apertured cup members have different sized openings to accommodate pipes (200) of different diameters.

Abstract: An applicator apparatus (10) for coating the threaded end (201) of a section of pipe (200) with pipe dope (101) contained within an open receptacle (100); wherein, the applicator apparatus (10) includes a skirt member (13) having an outer peripheral portion (14) disposed adjacent the interior walls (102) of the receptacle (100) and a metering cup member (16) operatively associated with the skirt member (13) and having apertures sidewalls (19); wherein, the apertured sidewalls allow the metered passage of the pipe dope (101) from within the receptacle (100) onto the threaded end (201) of a pipe (200).