초록 ▼

This invention relates to an automated apparatus for subjecting samples to one or more selected test procedures at one or more test stations comprising a conveyor line for transporting samples contained in uniquely labeled containers, said line having at least two lanes for routing said containers t

This invention relates to an automated apparatus for subjecting samples to one or more selected test procedures at one or more test stations comprising a conveyor line for transporting samples contained in uniquely labeled containers, said line having at least two lanes for routing said containers to one or more selectable test stations, at least one of said lanes being a transport lane and at least one of said lanes being a queue line, and having a container interface device for transferring containers to said testing device from the queue lane and back again onto said queue lane.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An automated conveyor system for transporting biological specimens contained in uniquely identified containers to one or more selectable stations, said conveyor system comprising:(a) a plurality of independently moveable holders, each capable of holding one of said biolog

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An automated conveyor system for transporting biological specimens contained in uniquely identified containers to one or more selectable stations, said conveyor system comprising:(a) a plurality of independently moveable holders, each capable of holding one of said biological specimen containers;(b) a conveyor comprising:(1) a single conveyor belt for supporting and moving said holders, said conveyor belt having at least two lanes, and(2) at least one gate for routing said holders between lanes;(c) at least one reader positioned in relationship to said belt in a manner that allows for reading the unique identifier of each container when the container is in its holder;(d) at least one electronic data processor for receiving data from said reader and associating the unique identifier data with another data file containing information defining at least one test to be performed on the specimen in that container, which, in combination, controls the movement of said container through said system;(e) at least one station for acting on said containers, interfaced with at least one lane of said conveyor, and operating under the direct or indirect control of said electronic data processor.