Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for screening drugs from candidate compounds selected from a library. The system includes multiple hardware components and a computer software system for scheduling and coordinating the operations of the hardware components. A user of the system requests a series of assays to be performed on the candidate compounds. Each assay is associated with a test acceptance criteria. Interdependencies of these assays may be specified. The software system schedules the hardware components to run each assay with minimum hardware idle time possible based on the assays requested and the interdependencies of these assays specified. The software system coordinates and directs the flow of samples and data through the system. A decision whether a sample can proceed to the next assay as scheduled may be made automatically based on test acceptance criteria, or manually modified by the user. All assays can be performed in an automated fashion once the samples are provided to the system.

Abstract: A method of processing objects using a bilateral architecture. The method comprises the steps of: arranging a plurality of instruments around a bi-directional conveyance device, the instruments spaced at fixed pitch intervals along the conveyor device; assigning dedicated movers to each of the instruments, the dedicated movers for loading and unloading of the objects to and from the instruments and the conveyance device; and controlling the operation of the conveyance device to have an interrupted motion, the interrupted motion for co-ordinating the loading and unloading of the objects; wherein the dedicated movers are positioned such that adjacent movers operate independently of one another. The method can be operated on an automated robotic system having a modular architecture.

Abstract: A conveyor system for moving articles, such as microtiter plates and the like, includes an endless belt with dividing ribs spaced to accommodate and position the plates to be moved. The belt is driven by a servo motor.

Abstract: A conveyor system for moving articles, such as microtiter plates and the like, includes an endless belt with dividing ribs spaced to accommodate and position the plates to be moved. The belt is driven by a servo motor.