Modular robotic system and method for sample processing

Abstract

A method of processing objects using a bilateral architecture. The method comprises the steps of: arranging a plurality of instruments around a bi-directional conveyance device, the instruments spaced at fixed pitch intervals along the conveyor device; assigning dedicated movers to each of the instruments, the dedicated movers for loading and unloading of the objects to and from the instruments and the conveyance device; and controlling the operation of the conveyance device to have an interrupted motion, the interrupted motion for co-ordinating the loading and unloading of the objects; wherein the dedicated movers are positioned such that adjacent movers operate independently of one another. The method can be operated on an automated robotic system having a modular architecture. The system comprises; a backbone having a plurality of backbone connectors; a module having a module connector for releasably coupling with a respective one of the backbone connectors; a bi-directional motion device connected to the backbone, the motion device for presenting an object adjacent to the module when the module is coupled to the backbone; a connection interface formable by coupling the backbone and module connectors, the connection interface for providing an operation coupling between the backbone and the module when adjacent thereto; wherein the connection interface provides a repeatable connection and disconnection capability between the backbone and the module for ready reconfiguration of the modular architecture.