Laboratory sample distribution system and corresponding method of operation

US9664703B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Michael Heise · Erbach, DE
• Hans Schneider · Schwaikheim, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 28, 2014
• Grant date: May 30, 2017
• Expiry date: Dec 30, 2034

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2035/0477
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A laboratory sample distribution system is presented. The laboratory sample distribution system comprises a number of container carriers. The container carriers each comprise at least one magnetically active device such as, for example, at least one permanent magnet, and carry a sample container. The system further comprises a transport plane to carry the container carriers and a number of electro-magnetic actuators being stationary arranged below the transport plane. The electro-magnetic actuators move a container carrier on top of the transport plane by applying a magnetic force to the container carrier.