Abstract: A reconfigurable automated system is provided. The system comprises a backbone including a plurality of docking ports, at least one module including a connector for releasably coupling the module to the backbone, and a motion unit, connected to the backbone, for providing an object to the module when the module is coupled to the backbone. The module connector and one of the docking ports form a connection interface, including a mechanical alignment device and an electrical connection, when the module is operationally coupled to the backbone.

Abstract: A method of scheduling a plurality of tasks includes the steps of establishing a node representative of each task, and indicative of resources required to perform that task. A hierarchy is established between the nodes to indicate an order in which tasks represented by the node are to be performed. The nodes whose hierarchy permits tasks represented by the node to be performed are selected to a next nodes list. A source is assigned to each of the selected nodes and is indicative of a priority to be accorded to respective ones of the selected nodes. The node with the highest priority is scheduled.