A method and system of sample aliquot storage for automated immunochemistry
or chemistry instruments are provided. The method and system provide a
sample aliquot storage unit having a sample storage wheel for storing
sample vessels containing sample aliquots in a chilled enclosed
environment, which are accessible by both a sample pipettor of a sample
aliquoting station and a pick-and-place gripper. The pick-and-place
gripper transports the sample vessels containing sample aliquots to
multiple independent reagent pipetting stations respectively for sample
aspiration of subsequent assay, and thereafter transports the sample
vessels containing remaining sample aliquots back to the sample storage
wheel to be stored in the chilled environment for reflex testing. When all
the tests are completed, the pick-and-place gripper transports the sample
vessels to a waste storage area.
