Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An integrated meter system for determining information related to an analyte of a fluid sample includes a meter including a housing and a plurality of test sensors. Each of the plurality of test sensors includes a penetrating member, a testing portion, and a channel. The channel is adapted to receive the fluid sample. The test sensors are removably located within the housing. At least one of the test sensors is removably connected to an adjacent test sensor. The integrated meter system also includes a test-sensor advancement mechanism that is configured to advance the test sensors.

Abstract: A slide stainer assembly is disclosed. The slide stainer includes a slide carrier that is configured to carry one or more laboratory slides and a plurality of slide processing stations for processing the slides. A transport member including a plurality of engagement portions is configured for releasably engaging the slide carrier. A drive mechanism is coupled to the transport member. The drive mechanism is configured to move the transport member in a cyclical path such that, in the course of one cycle, the transport member engages a slide carrier docked in a first station, removes the slide carrier from the first station, docks the slide carrier in a second station and returns to the first station to engage another slide carrier.

Abstract: A sample analyzer for analyzing a sample comprising: a sample container receiver capable of receiving either one of a manually supplied sample container and an automatically supplied; a container holder receiver for receiving a container holder holding at least one sample container; a sample container supplier automatically for supplying, to the sample container receiver, a sample container held by the container holder received by the container holder receiver; an aspirator for aspirating a sample within a sample container received by the sample container receiver; and an analyzing part for analyzing the sample aspirated by the aspirator.

Abstract: An automatic analyzer is disclosed that includes a supplementary reagent storage section and reagent bottle transfer mechanism besides an analysis reagent storage section, and that, by managing information on reagents stored in these two reagent storage sections, is capable of automating reagent management such as reagent replacing work, thereby reducing the burden on an operator, minimizing the interruption of an analysis due to reagent registration and reagent replacement, mounting many reagents thereon, and achieving a high throughput.

Abstract: A specimen container carrier for a conveyor in a laboratory automation system which includes a circular body driven by the conveyor and container holding elements arranged in the circular body, the container holding elements being maintained in a container holding position by respective elastic elements and are connected to each other by synchronization elements forcing the specimen container to remain coaxially positioned with respect to the circular body.

Abstract: A drug discovery screening apparatus improves a testing operation efficiency. The drug discovery screening apparatus comprises an image measurement unit, an incubator unit integrally connected to the image measurement unit, a fixed stage disposed at the incubator unit, first conveyance for taking out one of plates stored in a carousel of the incubator unit and conveying the plate onto the fixed stage, second conveyance for taking out the plate conveyed onto the fixed stage and conveying the plate onto an XY stage disposed at the image measurement unit, and a control unit. The second conveyance comprises first and second conveyance arms, respectively supported horizontally by a conveyance unit support section, which convey the plates onto the fixed stage and XY stage so as to allow the respective plates to cross each other.

Abstract: An analyzer comprising: a first specimen holder configured to hold a plurality of first specimen containers; a conveying assembly for conveying the first specimen containers held in the first specimen holder; a second specimen holder arranged at a position higher than an upper end of the first specimen containers held in the first specimen holder; a holder moving assembly for moving the second specimen holder so as to pass the upper side of at least one of the first specimen containers held in the first specimen holder; a container transferring assembly for transferring at least one of the first specimen containers from the first specimen holder to the second specimen holder; and a controller for controlling the holder moving assembly and the container transferring assembly, is disclosed.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A method for positioning a sample in a diagnostic analyzer includes: providing two or more sample carriers on a conveyor; providing a fixed registration element for each sample carrier at predetermined locations along the conveyor; providing a flexure device positioned between the sample carrier and the conveyor; advancing the sample carrier beyond the fixed registration elements; reversing the conveyor direction to back at least one of the sample carriers into contact with its corresponding registration elements; continuing to reverse the conveyor until all sample carriers are in contact with their respective registration elements; whereby the flexure elements of the sample carriers in contact with the respective registration elements will deform as the conveyor reverses to allow all sample carriers to contact their respective registration elements, thereby providing a known position of the sample carrier.

Abstract: The clinical laboratory test apparatus includes: an analyzing unit for analyzing a specimen; a reception part for receiving specimen information before analysis of the specimen; a discrimination part for discriminating whether or not a specimen is suited for analysis based on the specimen information; and a control part for controlling the analyzing unit based on the discrimination result obtained by the discrimination part.

Abstract: We describe apparatuses, systems, method, reagents, and kits for conducting assays as well as process for their preparation. They are particularly well suited for conducting automated sampling, sample preparation, and analysis in a multi-well plate assay format. For example, they may be used for automated analysis of particulates in air and/or liquid samples derived therefrom in environmental monitoring.

Abstract: A device for analyzing samples is disclosed, which are supplied in sample vessels (2), a central unit (1) with reaction vessels (2), a transport unit (6) for transporting the reaction vessels and at least one analytical unit (7, 8, 9) being provided. The central unit (1) contains a sampling unit (30), by which at least a part of the sample is transferred from the sample vessel (2) to a reaction vessel. At least a part of the reaction vessels is transferred via/by the transport unit (6) to at least one of the analytical units (7, 8, 9). Furthermore, at least one reagent vessel (20, . . . , 23) with at least one reagent is provided, which is supplied to the sample in the reaction vessel for a reaction between the sample and the reagent. Finally, at least one measuring device (5) or at least one measuring unit for the measuring of a physical property of the sample is provided. The device according to the invention works extremely efficiently, simultaneously a minimal effort of resources being required.

Abstract: A specimen-transport module adapted for use with each of a plurality of specimen-processing instruments of a multi-instrument clinical workcell. Such module is adapted to transport individual racks of specimen-containers relative to a specimen-aspiration probe of an associated instrument in a workcell, as well as to transfer selected racks of specimen-containers to an adjacent and identical specimen-transport module associated with another clinical instrument of the workcell. Since the same transport system is used to both present specimens for aspiration and to transfer specimens between instruments, there is no need for two independent conveyances as is characteristic of the prior art. Preferably, the specimen-transport module includes a magnetic X/Y transport system that operates beneath a rack-supporting surface to advance racks in mutually perpendicular directions across a supporting surface via magnetic forces.

Abstract: An analyzer capable of operating in a normal processing mode performing sequential analysis of a plurality of specimens and in an interrupting mode performing analysis of an urgent specimen that comprising a suction unit for suctioning an urgent specimen, an analysis unit for analyzing an urgent specimen suctioned by the suction unit, an urgent specimen container holder for holding an urgent specimen container containing an urgent specimen, and a moving mechanism for moving the urgent specimen container holder between a placement position at which an urgent specimen container is placed in the holder, and a suction position at which an urgent specimen is suctioned from an urgent specimen container, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a movement force supplying mechanism for supplying a force to move the urgent specimen container holder from the suction position to the placement position is disclosed.

Abstract: A automated test tube cap removal apparatus includes, a cap remover, a test tube rack which holds a plurality of capped test tubes upright in a row, a clamping mechanism which is disposed in the cap removing position and clamps the plurality of test tubes, and a cap removal unit disposed in the cap removing position and configured to move upward to remove caps from some of a plurality of test tubes and move upward to remove caps from the remaining test tubes. The cap removal unit includes engaging members which are capable of advance and retreat with respect to the caps and clamp each cap, a lift mechanism which raises the engaging members while alternately moving the engaging members upward, thereby removing the cap from each test tube, a cap guide member which separates the cap and guides the cap for dropping.

Abstract: A sensor unit is retained on an assay stage of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay apparatus. The sensor unit includes a prism having a sensing surface, disposed on an upper surface thereof, for detecting reaction of a sample. A flow cell is secured to the upper surface, and has a flow channel for flow of sample fluid containing the sample to the sensing surface. The sensor unit is set removably on the assay apparatus for optically measuring reaction of the sample. In sensor holding, the sensor unit is set on a stage surface of the assay stage by directing down the prism. In a pushing step, a lower surface of the prism is pushed on the stage surface in a first direction upright relative to the stage surface. Two holders push an upper face of the first and second ridges of the prism in the first direction.

Abstract: Provided is a specimen preparation apparatus capable of supplying a specimen from the specimen preparation apparatus to a specimen analyzer without burdening an operator. This specimen preparation apparatus comprises a stained specimen preparation part for preparing a specimen on a slide glass and staining the specimen, a keeping part for storing the stained specimen slide glass prepared in the stained specimen preparation part and a control part for deciding whether to supply the stained specimen slide glass to the keeping part or to the external apparatus.

Abstract: A method for positioning a sample in a diagnostic analyzer includes: providing two or more sample carriers on a conveyor; providing a fixed registration element for each sample carrier at predetermined locations along the conveyor; providing a flexure device positioned between the sample carrier and the conveyor; advancing the sample carrier beyond the fixed registration elements; reversing the conveyor direction to back at least one of the sample carriers into contact with its corresponding registration elements; continuing to reverse the conveyor until all sample carriers are in contact with their respective registration elements; whereby the flexure elements of the sample carriers in contact with the respective registration elements will deform as the conveyor reverses to allow all sample carriers to contact their respective registration elements, thereby providing a known position of the sample carrier.

Abstract: A sample carrier comprising a frame and one or more sample tube receiving structures pivotally connected to the frame. Each sample tube receiving structure includes a bottom member adapted to receive a plurality of sample tubes and a top member having a plurality of aligned apertures sized to receive sample tubes therethrough. The sample tube receiving structures can be releasably locked relative to a support wall of the frame, thereby substantially immobilizing sample tubes that are held by the sample carrier.

Abstract: A device including a pre-analytical module provided with at least one tube stirrer for homogenizing blood and preventing clot formation and disposed on a line for single-tube transfer between an area for storing analyzable tubes, and at least one unitary operating whole blood analyzer and automatic tube-loading/unloading device arranged between the tube stirrer and the single-tube transfer line. The device is suitable for blood analyzers.

Abstract: A specimen-transport module adapted for use with each of a plurality of specimen-processing instruments of a multi-instrument clinical workcell. Such module is adapted to transport individual racks of specimen-containers relative to a specimen-aspiration probe of an associated instrument in a workcell, as well as to transfer selected racks of specimen-containers to an adjacent and identical specimen-transport module associated with another clinical instrument of the workcell. Since the same transport system is used to both present specimens for aspiration and to transfer specimens between instruments, there is no need for two independent conveyances as is characteristic of the prior art. Preferably, the specimen-transport module includes a magnetic X/Y transport system that operates beneath a rack-supporting surface to advance racks in mutually perpendicular directions across a supporting surface via magnetic forces.

Abstract: An automated analyzer is configured to receive and analyze samples provided to the automated analyzer in primary sample containers. The automated analyzer comprises a sample retention unit, at least one transport device, and at least one aspiration device. The sample retention unit is configured to receive and retain a plurality of sample retention vessels. The sample retention unit may comprise a sample storage unit, an analytic unit, or other processing unit within the automated analyzer that retains a sample for some purpose. The transport device is configured to receive a first primary sample container containing a first sample and deliver the first primary sample container to the sample retention unit as one of the plurality of sample retention vessels. The aspiration device is configured to receive a second sample from a second primary sample container and deliver the second sample into one of the plurality of sample retention vessels.

Abstract: A specimen-transport module adapted for use with each of a plurality of specimen-processing instruments of a multi-instrument clinical workcell. Such module is adapted to transport individual racks of specimen-containers relative to a specimen-aspiration probe of an associated instrument in a workcell, as well as to transfer selected racks of specimen-containers to an adjacent and identical specimen-transport module associated with another clinical instrument of the workcell. Since the same transport system is used to both present specimens for aspiration and to transfer specimens between instruments, there is no need for two independent conveyances as is characteristic of the prior art. Preferably, the specimen-transport module includes a magnetic X/Y transport system that operates beneath a rack-supporting surface to advance racks in mutually perpendicular directions across a supporting surface via magnetic forces.

Abstract: A method for maximizing analyzer throughput irregardless of the mix in demand of different assays to be conducted by duplicating the reagents required to conduct selected assays in at least two separate reagent servers and also enabling newly incoming selected assays to be conducted using reagents from whichever reagent server has the smaller backlog of such high-volume assays.

Abstract: Methods and assemblies for ion detection in samples using a chip with elevated sample zones, also known as a “pillar chip.” Methods include analyzing such a sample by desorbing a sample from a chip, producing a described ion sample and detecting the same. The chip comprises a base having a surface and one or more structures protruding above the surface of the base. Each structure comprises a pillar and a sample zone, the latter containing a support material and the sample to be analyzed. Assemblies include a chip such as that described above and a conductive element that comprises an aperture of sufficient proportion to allow passage of a molecular ion and that is adapted to be at a different electrical potential than the base of the chip.

Abstract: A fluid content monitor including a cuvette, a calorimeter adapted to generate a signal indicative of contents of a fluid sample contained in the cuvette, a container for holding a reagent, and a pump assembly for delivering reagent from the container to the cuvette. The pump assembly includes a tube extending from the container to the cuvette, check valves preventing reverse flow in the tube, and a hammer driven by a solenoid for repetitively compressing the tube to pump reagent to the cuvette. The cuvette can be removed for cleaning and replacement.

Abstract: A reusable microplate kit for use in the life sciences industry includes a microplate and a removable lid. The microplate includes a sample area with a plurality of individual wells and a hollow outer frame formed around the sample area, the frame being shaped to include a plurality of openings in its top surface. The lid includes a plate, a plurality of latches formed on the underside of the plate and a compressible gasket affixed to the underside of the plate. In use, the lid is mounted on the microplate by inserting each latch through a corresponding opening until the latch snaps into engagement with the frame. In this manner, the plate and gasket together serve to seal off each well from the outside environment. The microplate kit additionally includes a tool for disengaging the lid from the microplate and thereby assist in their separation.

Abstract: A Staining machine for treatment of tissue specimens on slides placed in baskets (9) includes a number of baths (7, 12) placed successively in a row (6 resp. 11), and a device for successive transport of the baskets in a transport path from one bath to the next one, the baskets (9) being transported from an input station (5) to an output station (14) in accordance with a predetermined treatment program. The machine includes at least two bath rows (6 resp. 11) placed juxtaposed and parallel with each other, the first bath row (6) extending from the input station (5) to an opposite end of this row, and second path row (11) extending from the output station (14) to an opposite end of this row.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drive arrangement for a series of cuvettes (C) forming a strip (2) fixed by means of a film (3) in an automatic analytical device (1), comprising at least one toothed belt (12), the teeth of which engage with the corresponding forms of the cuvettes. The above finds application in an automatic analytical device, particularly for the determination of the rate of change of the physical state of a medium.

Abstract: The performance of an analyzer is checked on by use of a performance check cartridge which has the same external shape as a reagent cartridge for analyzing samples has; the performance check cartridge holds reagents for checking on the performance of the analyzer, and concurrently holds process conditions and determination conditions for checking on the performance of the analyzer in the form of two-dimensional dot codes; in accordance with the process conditions recorded in the performance check cartridge, the automated analyzer determines the absorbance by use of the reagents filled in the performance check cartridge, and compares a result of the determination with the determination conditions recorded in the performance check cartridge, thereby checking on the performance of the analyzer.

Abstract: A parallel gripper for handling multiwell plates in an automated analysis system, moves individual multiwell plates between a plate storage array unit (i.e., plate hotel) and an imaging station. More particularly, the gripper has two parallel plate-gripping arms that move in equal, but opposite linear directions and are controlled using a stepper motor. Each of the arms has a shelf that provides support for the corresponding side edge of a multiwell plate.

Abstract: An instrument adapted to determine an analyte concentration of a fluid sample using a test sensor is disclosed. The instrument comprises a display adapted to display information to a user, a user-interface mechanism adapted to allow the user to interact with the instrument, a first test-sensor cartridge, and a body portion including at least a first opening and a second opening formed therein. The first opening is adapted to receive a test sensor from the first test-sensor cartridge. The second opening is adapted to store at least one additional test-sensor cartridge.

Abstract: A system for automatically testing a sample aliquot retained in temporary storage in environmentally controlled conditions on an automated clinical analyzer for a period of time without requiring operator intervention.

Abstract: A fluid distribution system comprises a table configured to engage at least two microplates and moveable in an X-Y plane and in a Z direction toward and away from the X-Y plane. The fluid distribution system can comprise a dispensing head that comprises a plurality of dispensing tips adapted to dispense fluid to one or more locations of a microplate. A plate-handling device is provided to selectively pick up and deposit, substantially simultaneously, two or more of the microplates. The fluid distribution system can further comprise an accessory carriage configured to engage a source of fluid and move the source of fluid into a position adjacent the dispensing head in position for the dispensing head to aspirate fluid from the source of the fluid.

Abstract: In a microplate processing apparatus that removes lid (11) of microplate (10) conveyed by microplate conveying mechanism (3), performs a dispensing process by dispensing head (8), and attaches lid (11) after the dispensing process is completed, lid (11) removed by lid removing mechanism (6) at second position (P2), is conveyed to fourth position (P4) located downstream, in advance of microplate (10) with this lid (11) having been attached, by microplate conveying mechanism (3), to be retained by lid attaching mechanism (9), and then is attached to microplate (10) having been conveyed to fourth position (P4), after the dispensing process is completed.

Abstract: We describe apparatuses, systems, method, reagents, and kits for conducting assays as well as process for their preparation. They are particularly well suited for conducting automated sampling, sample preparation, and analysis in a multi-well plate assay format. For example, they may be used for automated analysis of particulates in air and/or liquid samples derived therefrom in environmental monitoring.

Abstract: An analyzer comprising: a first measurement unit for measuring samples; a second measurement unit for measuring samples; a transportation device for transporting samples to the first measurement unit and the second measurement unit; prior sample measurement instructor for instructing to measure a predetermined sample prior to the other samples; and a transportation controller for controlling the transportation device to reserve the transportation of the other samples to the second measurement unit and to perform the other transportation operation, when the prior sample measurement instructor has instructed to measure the predetermined sample by the second measurement unit prior to the other samples, is disclosed. A sample transportation method and a computer program product are also disclosed.

Abstract: An automated system for preparing a plurality of cytological specimens from a plurality of fluid samples in vials includes an apparatus for collecting a monolayer of cells from each sample and transferring the cells to a microscope slide for fixing, staining, and inspection. The system includes a first loading station for receiving the sample vials, a second loading station for receiving consumables such as filter membranes, a slide dispenser, and an unloading area for removing completed specimen slides. To maintain one-to-one correlation between the samples and specimens produced therefrom, the system includes a subsystem for identifying each sample and permanently marking each slide with corresponding indicia prior to transferring the specimen thereto.

Abstract: A method and a device for removing an analytic consumable product, in particular a test element, from a storage container having chambers which are sealed by foils from which the consumable product is pushed out by means of a plunger (7) can be optimized in that the magnitude of the thrusting force exercised by the plunger (7) during its forward motion can be controlled in dependence on the plunger (7) position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparing analyses of total blood samples and to a device that is useful for implementing the method, said samples being conserved in tubes including at least one identification means for identifying the sample, the device comprising: at least one compartment constituting a said storage zone for storing said tubes before and after analysis; and at least one said read means for reading said identification means of said tubes; and at least one preparation zone for preparing said blood samples prior to analysis and including means for verifying and/or treating said tubes containing said samples, and in particular at least one agitator means for agitating said tubes; and at least one access zone giving access to at least one automatic analyzer of total blood, said access zone enabling a said tube to be placed in said analyzer; and robotic gripper and displacement means controlled by an automatic controller and suitable for taking hold of and replacing said tubes ind

Abstract: An automated and autonomous diagnostic apparatus that is capable of dispensing collection vials and collections kits to users interesting in collecting a biological sample and submitting their collected sample contained within a collection vial into the apparatus for automated diagnostic services. The user communicates with the apparatus through a touch-screen monitor. A user is able to enter personnel information into the apparatus including medical history, insurance information, co-payment, and answer a series of questions regarding their illness, which is used to determine the assay most likely to yield a positive result. Remotely-located physicians can communicate with users of the apparatus using video tele-medicine and request specific assays to be performed. The apparatus archives submitted samples for additional testing. Users may receive their assay results electronically. Users may allow the uploading of their diagnoses into a central databank for disease surveillance purposes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to device for quantitative and/or qualitative determination of the presence/absence of a substance in a body liquid comprising a rotatably arranged magazine containing a number of test electrodes intended to be brought into contact with a body liquid to be determined, an arm arranged to influence a test electrode to a relative movement relative to said magazine, whereby the arm comprises contact sheet metals arranged to releasably be fixed to said test electrode and arranged to return said test electrode to the magazine after a finished testing, as well as an arm contained in said device.

Abstract: A new method and system for transporting and sorting multiple reagent packs used in conjunction with an immunodiagnostic instrument is provided. The new system includes a multiplicity of reagent packs; a gantry movably mounted on a rack structure for carrying a gripper mechanism, wherein the gripper mechanism has gripping jaws for engagement with the reagent pack; a power assembly for actuating the respective movement of the gantry, the gripper mechanism and the gripping jaws; a storage nest having a multiplicity of compartments, each adapted for storing a one of the respective reagent packs; and a pipetting nest having a multiplicity of compartment, each adapted for retaining a respective one of the reagent packs for simultaneous pipetting. Methods of using the system and a novel reagent pack used in connection with the new system are also provided.

Abstract: A device for detecting bacterial endospores in a sealed container. The device has a suction tube connected to an aerosol concentrator containing a lanthanide salt solution, a suction pump engaged to the aerosol concentrator, an excitation energy source and an optical set-up for directing the excitation energy source to the lanthanide salt solution and collecting photoluminescence generated by the excited lanthanide salt solution. A method for detecting bacterial endospores is also provided.

Abstract: In a microplate processing apparatus that removes lid (11) of microplate (10) conveyed by microplate conveying mechanism (3) to perform a dispensing process by dispensing head (8), and that attaches lid (11) after the dispensing process is completed, lid (11) removed by lid removing mechanism (6) at first position (P1) is conveyed to third position (P3) located downstream, by microplate conveying mechanism (3), to be held by lid attaching mechanism (9), and then lid (11) is attached to microplate (10) having been conveyed to third position (P3), after the dispensing process is completed, while microplate (10) with this lid (11) having been attached is being lifted to processing position (P4) above microplate conveying mechanism (3), by microplate stage (12).

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an automatic chemical analytical apparatus for analyzing liquid samples. In order to provide a fully automatic transport of sample tubes containing samples to be analyzed, the apparatus includes a sample processing unit, a sample transport arrangement for transporting the sample racks from a rack supply unit to a rotatable sample rack carrier in the sample processing unit and vice versa, and a computer for controlling and coordinating the operation of the sample transport arrangement and an automatic pipetting unit. The sample processing unit includes the automatic pipetting unit and the rotatable sample rack carrier that accommodates a plurality of sample racks. Each sample rack, in turn, accommodates a plurality of sample tubes.

Abstract: A test device 1 for analyzing a specific component in a test solution with a reagent by allowing the solution introduced via a feed opening 4 to react with the reagent maintained in a predetermined position in a capillary tube 3 having the opening 4 and an air outlet 5. The tube is provided with two hydrophilic regions 31, 33 and a hydrophobic region 32. The region 31 transfers the solution from the opening 4 to the reagent. The region 33 is delimited to a predetermined area maintaining the reagent. The region 32 separates the region 31 from the region 33. The reagent and the solution are applied in predetermined amounts to the region 33. A measuring device need not previously measure the solution. The device is useful as an analytical device for rapid and easy analysis, and can be produced in a less number of steps because the reagent can be fixed by merely applying it onto a predetermined position.

Abstract: An air decontamination system including a sealed room to hold at least one person and the sealed room having an air inlet. The system further including a vacuum unit to create a negative pressure within the sealed room, by suctioning air through the air inlet into the sealed room and then from the sealed room into an inlet of the vacuum unit. The system still further including a work surface disposed in the sealed room at a predetermined height above a floor of the sealed room and the work surface to receive at least one mail piece and the air to be suctioned downwardly over the at least one mail piece and the work surface; and a filter unit to filter the air as the air is drawn out of the sealed room.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention relate to laboratory systems for processing tissue samples and specimens within a laboratory. In particular, the present invention relates to a system for automating sample processing, comprising handling and analysis of tissue specimens with laboratory and/or medical diagnostic equipment. In one form the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for sample processing tissue specimens for histological and/or pathological laboratory analysis involving procedures or tasks such as, for example, tissue processing, embedding, staining, coverslipping and imaging. In a laboratory system utilizing aspects of the present invention there is provided at least one workcell and at least one conveyer in which tissue samples may be routed.