Robotically operated laboratory system
US5366896A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 30, 1991 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/12
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention relates to an integrated analytical system which includes a plurality of remote laboratories and a central monitoring station. The remote laboratories include a specimen analysis member and a plurality of peripheral devices. The central monitoring station includes a computer for controlling predetermined functions of the peripheral devices. A local area network provides communication between each of the remote laboratories and the central monitoring station. A computer interface provides bi-directional communication between analytical instruments, robots and peripheral devices and a computer. The system employs a robot which is responsive to computer commands and capable of performing mechanical functions. The mechanical functions include manipulating an analytical instrument, transporting the specimens to be analyzed through a variety of locations, and the manipulation of the container in which the specimen is housed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.