Patents by Inventor Robert K. Neeper
Robert K. Neeper has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 11175298Abstract: An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2020Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Assignee: BROOKS AUTOMATION, INC.Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, John E. Lillig
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Publication number: 20200333364Abstract: An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2020Publication date: October 22, 2020Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, John E. Lillig
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Patent number: 10739365Abstract: In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosed embodiment an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a pick head configured to transfer sample containers to and from a sample group holder, at least one sensor connected to the pick head and configured to detect at least one predetermined feature of the sample group holder, and a controller configured to receive a detection signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to detection of the at least one predetermined feature, determine a change in a predetermined characteristic of the sample group holder based on a detected position of the at least one predetermined feature, and determine a location of one or more samples in the sample group holder to allow for the transfer of the one or more sample containers to and from the sample group holder based on the edge detection signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2017Date of Patent: August 11, 2020Assignee: Brooks Automation, IncInventor: Robert K. Neeper
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Patent number: 10697987Abstract: An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2017Date of Patent: June 30, 2020Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, John E. Lillig
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Patent number: 10168344Abstract: A storage and retrieval system is provided. The storage and retrieval system having a frame and a shuttle movable within the frame, the shuttle having a carriage extending at least partially between a top and bottom of the frame. At least one tension member extends between a first and second ends of the frame and is coupled to the shuttle. At least one drive member extends between the first and second ends of the frame and is coupled to the shuttle. The at least one drive member and the at least one tension member project from opposite sides of the shuttle towards respective first and second ends of the frame and effect stabilization of the carriage against at least rotation relative to the frame. The at least one tension member crosses the at least one drive member and the at least one drive member effects movement of the shuttle.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2019Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, John E. Lillig
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Patent number: 10101352Abstract: An apparatus includes a frame configured to hold sample holders in an array, a longitudinal axis of the sample holder extending outward of an array plane; a drive section connected to the frame; at least one transfer arm rotatably connected to the drive section so that each transfer arm rotates about a rotation axis oriented substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis and includes a sample holder gripper; and at least one push member movably connected to the drive section and being distinct from the sample holder gripper and configured for linear movement along the longitudinal axis, the at least one push member being configured so that engagement with at least a bottom or top surface of the sample holder effects longitudinal translation of the sample holder for one or more of capture and release of the sample holder by the respective transfer arm in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2017Date of Patent: October 16, 2018Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: Mark Borodkin, David Mejia, Werner Willemse, Robert K. Neeper
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Publication number: 20180095099Abstract: In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosed embodiment an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a pick head configured to transfer sample containers to and from a sample group holder, at least one sensor connected to the pick head and configured to detect at least one predetermined feature of the sample group holder, and a controller configured to receive a detection signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to detection of the at least one predetermined feature, determine a change in a predetermined characteristic of the sample group holder based on a detected position of the at least one predetermined feature, and determine a location of one or more samples in the sample group holder to allow for the transfer of the one or more sample containers to and from the sample group holder based on the edge detection signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2017Publication date: April 5, 2018Inventor: Robert K. NEEPER
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Patent number: 9895695Abstract: A container or array of containers that is are sealed with a peelable seal is transported via a conveyor along a processing path toward a desealing station at which an adhesive surface having a width substantially the same as or greater than the width of the seal is pressed against the upper surface of the peelable seal. A collection rod applies a downward pressure on the adhesive surface, pressing it against the seal and keeping the container or container array in position on the conveyor as the plate moves with the conveyor. As the leading edge of the seal passes the collection rod, the adhesive surface is rolled upward, away from the plane of the seal, pulling up on the leading edge of the seal to separate it from the container or container array while the container or container array is held down by the roller. The removed seal is then discarded.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2014Date of Patent: February 20, 2018Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, Roger Howard
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Publication number: 20170370955Abstract: An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2017Publication date: December 28, 2017Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, John E. Lillig
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Patent number: 9791466Abstract: An apparatus includes a pick head configured to transfer sample containers to and from a sample group holder, at least one sensor connected to the pick head and configured to detect at least one predetermined feature of the sample group holder, and a controller configured to receive a detection signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to detection of the at least one predetermined feature, determine a change in a predetermined characteristic of the sample group holder based on a detected position of the at least one predetermined feature, and determine a location of one or more samples in the sample group holder to allow for the transfer of the one or more sample containers to and from the sample group holder based on the edge detection signal.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2012Date of Patent: October 17, 2017Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventor: Robert K. Neeper
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Publication number: 20170227561Abstract: An apparatus includes a frame configured to hold sample holders in an array, a longitudinal axis of the sample holder extending outward of an array plane; a drive section connected to the frame; at least one transfer arm rotatably connected to the drive section so that each transfer arm rotates about a rotation axis oriented substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis and includes a sample holder gripper; and at least one push member movably connected to the drive section and being distinct from the sample holder gripper and configured for linear movement along the longitudinal axis, the at least one push member being configured so that engagement with at least a bottom or top surface of the sample holder effects longitudinal translation of the sample holder for one or more of capture and release of the sample holder by the respective transfer arm in the longitudinal direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2017Publication date: August 10, 2017Inventors: Mark BORODKIN, David MEJIA, Werner WILLEMSE, Robert K. NEEPER
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Patent number: 9702887Abstract: An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2012Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L Affleck, John E. Lillig
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Publication number: 20150204598Abstract: A portable cryogenic workstation includes a housing having an internal cavity configured to hold one or more samples, a lid for sealing the internal cavity such that the portable cryogenic workstation is configured for transporting samples between about room temperature environments to about ultra-cold environments, at least one automation interface disposed on one or more of the housing and lid and configured for engagement with automated handling equipment, and a process data capture unit coupled to the housing and configured to capture process or ephemeral data corresponding to a predetermined processing characteristic(s) of at least one of the samples coincident with presence inside the portable cryogenic workstation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2015Publication date: July 23, 2015Inventors: Rhett L. Affleck, Anthony C. Bonora, Etienne P. Croquette, Robert K. Neeper
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Publication number: 20140367051Abstract: A container or array of containers that is are sealed with a peelable seal is transported via a conveyor along a processing path toward a desealing station at which an adhesive surface having a width substantially the same as or greater than the width of the seal is pressed against the upper surface of the peelable seal. A collection rod applies a downward pressure on the adhesive surface, pressing it against the seal and keeping the container or container array in position on the conveyor as the plate moves with the conveyor. As the leading edge of the seal passes the collection rod, the adhesive surface is rolled upward, away from the plane of the seal, pulling up on the leading edge of the seal to separate it from the container or container array while the container or container array is held down by the roller. The removed seal is then discarded.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2014Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, Roger Howard
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Patent number: 8910985Abstract: A gripper apparatus for removing and replacing objects such as containers or vials in an array of containers has a gripper head which extends downward from a support arm, a planetary gear assembly mounted in the gripper head including at least three planet gears, and at least one gripping grip extending downward from each planet gear and projecting beyond a lower end of the gripper head. A drive motor drives the planetary gear assembly to rotate the planet gears in opposite directions, moving the grips inward and outward along predetermined paths to grip and carry an object and release the object when in a desired location.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2013Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventor: Robert K. Neeper
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Patent number: 8764934Abstract: A container or array of containers that is are sealed with a peelable seal is transported via a conveyor along a processing path toward a desealing station at which an adhesive surface having a width substantially the same as or greater than the width of the seal is pressed against the upper surface of the peelable seal. A collection rod applies a downward pressure on the adhesive surface, pressing it against the seal and keeping the container or container array in position on the conveyor as the plate moves with the conveyor. As the leading edge of the seal passes the collection rod, the adhesive surface is rolled upward, away from the plane of the seal, pulling up on the leading edge of the seal to separate it from the container or container array while the container or container array is held down by the roller. The removed seal is then discarded.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventors: Robert K. Neeper, Rhett L. Affleck, Roger Howard
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Patent number: 8636459Abstract: Within a storage compartment, closely spaced rows of adjacent stacks are supported on a plurality of parallel sliding rails. A pair of coordinated robots is positioned with one robot on one side of the stacks to push the stacks within a selected row toward the other robot. The pushing robot on one side of the row starts off with a starting stack supported in its support arms. The pushing robot pushes the starting stack into one end of the selected row, causing the row to shift toward the waiting receiving robot, which receives the stack at the opposite end of the row from the starting stack. A series of pushes between the two robots moves a stack containing a desired sample into alignment with an access port in the storage compartment.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2011Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventor: Robert K. Neeper
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Publication number: 20130336755Abstract: A gripper apparatus for removing and replacing objects such as containers or vials in an array of containers has a gripper head which extends downward from a support arm, a planetary gear assembly mounted in the gripper head including at least three planet gears, and at least one gripping grip extending downward from each planet gear and projecting beyond a lower end of the gripper head. A drive motor drives the planetary gear assembly to rotate the planet gears in opposite directions, moving the grips inward and outward along predetermined paths to grip and carry an object and release the object when in a desired location.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Applicant: Brooks Automation, INc.Inventor: Robert K. Neeper
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Patent number: 8439414Abstract: A gripper apparatus for removing and replacing objects such as containers or vials in an array of containers has a gripper head which extends downward from a support arm, a planetary gear assembly mounted in the gripper head including at least three planet gears, and at least one gripping pin extending downward from each planet gear and projecting beyond a lower end of the gripper head. A drive motor drives the planetary gear assembly to rotate the planet gears in opposite directions, moving the pins inward and outward along predetermined paths to grip and carry an object and release the object when in a desired location.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Brooks Automation, Inc.Inventor: Robert K. Neeper
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Publication number: 20130028697Abstract: In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosed embodiment an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a pick head configured to transfer sample containers to and from a sample group holder, at least one sensor connected to the pick head and configured to detect at least one predetermined feature of the sample group holder, and a controller configured to receive a detection signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to detection of the at least one predetermined feature, determine a change in a predetermined characteristic of the sample group holder based on a detected position of the at least one predetermined feature, and determine a location of one or more samples in the sample group holder to allow for the transfer of the one or more sample containers to and from the sample group holder based on the edge detection signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2012Publication date: January 31, 2013Inventor: Robert K. Neeper