Patent ID: 8701504
Filing Date: 2014-04-22
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A sample-processing system comprising: one or more function modules having different functions and processing capabilities, and one or more buffer units each combined as a pair with a respective one of the function modules and interconnected via a sample rack transport section that holds a sample vessel and includes a loading unit, transport unit, and storage unit for sample racks each having a specific identification code, wherein: each of the buffer units undertakes both bi-directional transfer of the sample racks to and from the sample rack transport section, and transport of the sample racks to and from each function module paired with one of the buffer units, each buffer unit including: when the sample-processing system is reset, each buffer unit is configured to: read the identification code of each sample rack within the buffer unit via the reading means, then determine a transport destination of the sample rack from the read identification code and an operational state of the function module, and restart processing thereof.