Jeremy C Caldwell

US Patent:

20080253927, Oct 16, 2008

Filed:

Jun 23, 2008

Appl. No.:

12/144573

Inventors:

Kristina Marie Burow - Chicago IL, US
Jeremy S. Caldwell - La Jolla CA, US
Robert Charles Downs - La Jolla CA, US
Scott Allan Lesley - San Diego CA, US
James Kevin Mainquist - San Diego CA, US
Andrew J. Meyer - Solana Beach CA, US
Daniel G. Sipes - San Diego CA, US
Mark Richard Weselak - San Diego CA, US

Assignee:

IRM LLC - Hamilton

International Classification:

G01N 35/10

US Classification:

422 64

Abstract:

The present invention provides a system and method for high throughput processing using sample holders. The system has a plurality of work perimeters, with a rotational robot preferably associated with each work perimeter. At least one transfer station area is provided between adjacent work perimeters to facilitate robotic transfer of sample holders from one work perimeter to another area. Each work perimeter typically includes a plurality of defined station locations, with each station location positioned to be accessible by the robot associated with that area. In addition, each station location is typically configured to receive a device, such as an automated instrument or a holding nest. Device components are arranged at selected station locations according to specific application requirements to provide a flexible, robust, reliable, and accurate high throughput processing system.