Test tube removal device and system

Abstract

A device and system for extracting simultaneously a plurality of test tubes from one or more aligned racks is provided. The device is operably adapted to extract test tubes having a body with a first diameter and a top portion with a lip having a second larger diameter. The aligned racks generally form collectively a rectangular footprint and provide opposing longitudinal shoulders. A version of the device generally includes an extraction assembly including one or more longitudinal slots adapted to receive and slide over the top portion of each test tube forming the longitudinal row, each longitudinal slot comprising laterally spaced and longitudinally extending interior rims, the lateral distance between the rims being greater than the diameter of the body of the test tube and less than the diameter of the test tube top portion flared lip, thereby during operation the interior rims grasp each test tube in the respective longitudinal row; a frame housing adapted to couple with the one or more racks, the frame housing including at least a first biasing surface; and a cam assembly operably attached to the extraction assembly for moving the extraction assembly between a first position and a raised position, the cam assembly including at least a first cam operably positioned proximate the first biasing surface and a lever operably attached to the first cam for providing rotary motion which translates to linear upward motion of the extraction assembly while moving from the first position to the raised position.