Robotic station for capturing both image and weight of a sample
First Claim
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1. A robotic system, comprising:
- a) a frame,b) a plurality of interfaces, wherein at least two of said interfaces are substantially identical to one another, andc) a plurality of modules supported by the frame, each of the modules connecting into at least one of said interfaces, the plurality of modules having top plates that together form a work surface,wherein at least one of said modules is a weigh and image module adapted to weigh and image a sample.
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Abstract
A robotic system with a common software and hardware platform for integration of a variety of modular components is provided that can be set up for a given application and reconfigured to address changing needs. Modules attach to the robotic platform with standard interfaces in order to maximize the platform'"'"'s flexibility. Robotic arms also have interchangeability such as variable pitched Z-racks, powder handling or other technologies. The standard interfaces allow third party developers to develop and integrate their own custom modules. One module included with the robotic platform in accord with this invention is a module that both weighs and images a sample.
35 Citations
25 Claims
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1. A robotic system, comprising:
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a) a frame, b) a plurality of interfaces, wherein at least two of said interfaces are substantially identical to one another, and c) a plurality of modules supported by the frame, each of the modules connecting into at least one of said interfaces, the plurality of modules having top plates that together form a work surface, wherein at least one of said modules is a weigh and image module adapted to weigh and image a sample. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19)
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11. A module for automated weighing and imaging of a sample, the module comprising
a top plate, bottom platform and side supports connecting the top plate and bottom platform, the top plate having a door; -
a sample chamber located beneath the door, the sample chamber comprising a diffuser; a balance on the bottom platform; a sample holder positioned on the balance directly below the door, the sample holder defining the bottom of the sample chamber; and a digital camera with a lens focused on a sample held by the sample holder positioned on the balance directly below the door. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 24, 25)
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21. A robotic system comprising:
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a frame; a plurality of modules supported by the frame, wherein at least one of the modules is a weigh and image module adapted to weigh and image a sample; locators supported by the frame, the locators being engageable with the modules for accurately locating the modules relative to the frame; a robot supported by the frame and movable with respect to the modules; a housing supported by the frame and housing electronic equipment; and interfaces on the housing for interfacing with the electronic equipment, the modules being connected to respective interfaces; wherein the top plates form a substantially continuous work surface. - View Dependent Claims (22, 23)
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Specification