Abstract: An apparatus and method for transferring plurality of samples from one sample container to another one is disclosed wherein each sample is randomly accessible and can be “cherry picked”. The disclosed method of actuation allows for using a smaller number of actuators than the number of sample transferring channels or pins and thereby simplifies the design and control of the sample transferring apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transferring plurality of samples from one sample container to another one is disclosed wherein each sample is randomly accessible and can be “cherry picked”. The disclosed method of actuation allows for using a smaller number of actuators than the number of sample transferring channels or pins and thereby simplifies the design and control of the sample transferring apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a plurality of bushings arranged and held together in an array; and a plurality of pins residing in the plurality of bushings, wherein the plurality of pins are for transferring samples. Manufacturing tolerances for inside diameters of the bushings and outside diameters of the pins substantially match to allowing the pins to slide freely within the bushings. The plurality of bushings can reside in one or more plates, each of which having plurality of holes, with the plurality of bushings being held together in the array.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a plurality of bushings arranged and held together in an array; and a plurality of pins residing in the plurality of bushings, wherein the plurality of pins are for transferring samples. Manufacturing tolerances for inside diameters of the bushings and outside diameters of the pins substantially match to allowing the pins to slide freely within the bushings. The plurality of bushings can reside in one or more plates, each of which having plurality of holes, with the plurality of bushings being held together in the array.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transferring plurality of samples from one sample container to another one is disclosed wherein each sample is randomly accessible and can be “cherry picked”. The disclosed method of actuation allows for using a smaller number of actuators than the number of sample transferring channels or pins and thereby simplifies the design and control of the sample transferring apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises one or more functional modules, conveyers, tools, and sub-modules. A functional module comprises at least one general-purpose tool interface and a device for moving the tool interface in one or more directions. A functional module may include a rotary positioning device, which rotates the tool interface about an axis. At least one functional module is used in an apparatus, and at least one tool is attached to the tool interface of a functional module. A tool performs a specific operation on a work sample. For example, a gripping tool is used to hold and release a sample container, or a scanning tool is used to scan multiple work samples. At least one conveyer is used to transfer work sample containers from one functional module to another. In addition to functional modules, conveyers, and tools, an apparatus may include one or more sub-modules.

Abstract: A positioning device includes a gantry robot and an elevator unit. The gantry robot includes a head assembly, a work-space spaced below the head assembly for receiving at least one tray and a device for moving the head assembly in the X, Y and Z directions. The gantry robot further includes a device for scanning the work-space. The elevator unit has a plurality of shelves arranged in a series one above another. Each shelf is adapted to receive at least one tray and the shelves are movable in the Z direction. A device for moving a tray between the elevator unit and the work-space is included. A control system for controlling the movement of the head assembly in the X, Y and Z direction, for controlling the movement of the shelves in the Z direction and for controlling the tray moving device is operably connected to the gantry robot and the elevator unit.