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: The invention provides a system and method for testing samples and, in one embodiment, a system for directing and coordinating the operations of hardware components and performance of tasks of laboratory personnel. The system includes a user interface for receiving requests from one or more users. Each request comprises a list of one or more samples to be tested and specifies one or more tests to be conducted on each sample. The system also includes a sample preparation station for maintaining a library of all received samples and creating a sublibrary of samples based on the test(s) to be conducted. The system directs hardware components and laboratory personnel (collectively, laboratory resources) to conduct the requested tests and reports test results to the user(s) who have requested the test(s).

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 conveyance 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 coordinating 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.