Patent Publication Number: US-11656237-B2

Title: Link chain, chain system and method

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of the earlier filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/879,665 filed Jul. 29, 2019 and titled “Link Chain, Chain System and Method,” the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The technology relates generally to an automated liquid chromatography system. More particularly, the technology relates to a method of loading samples into a sample manager of a liquid chromatography system. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Liquid chromatography (LC) systems commonly use a sample manager to acquire a sample and inject the sample into the system flow (i.e., mobile phase) of the chromatography system. Sample managers are generally provided as a stackable or rack-mountable system module that may be in a vertical arrangement with other LC system modules. In a conventional sample manager, a sample-vial carrier having a capacity to hold a number of sample-vials (e.g., 96 vials in a grid configuration) is loaded into the sample manager by a user. Loading is accomplished by opening an access door on the front of the sample manager and manually placing the sample-vial carrier into a compartment in a sample tray. When the chromatographic separations for all samples to be processed are completed, the user opens the access door and removes the sample-vial carrier from the sample tray. 
     Recently, robotic systems have been used to perform the sample loading and unloading functions to increase use of the LC system by reducing user participation. For example, a robot may open the access door to the sample manager, remove a sample-vial carrier from the sample tray, return the sample-vial carrier to a sample storage unit (e.g., a sample organizer) or other location, retrieve another sample-vial carrier for testing from the sample storage unit, load the retrieved sample-vial carrier into the sample manager and close the door on the sample manager. Due to the complexity and time required for the robot to open and close the door along with the intervening robotic tasks, the door may remain open for the entire loading and unloading process. The period when the door is open may be substantial, for example, tens of seconds or more, leading to a significant variation in the internal temperature of the sample manager due to exposure to the ambient environment. It may be necessary to wait a predetermined time for the internal temperature to return to an acceptable level or to monitor the internal temperature to ensure the return to the acceptable temperature. The time delay incurred may limit the throughput of the LC system. 
     Chains that are structurally precluded from back-bending have been created for various applications and to perform various functions. For example, chains precluded from back-bending today are typically used as cable carriers that provide a cavity within which to house cables that are attached to a moving component of a system. These wire-bearing “drag chains” are designed without the need to withstand the ability of pushing and pulling, i.e. forces acting on the chain parallel to the length of the chain. Further, chains precluded from back-bending often incorporate complicated link designs with multiple separable features (i.e. links, pins, etc.) which need to be assembled to form the chain. Still further, the structures of known cable carrying chains are typically significantly restrictive in terms of the rotation structurally allowable between two chain links. Moreover, typical one-way bending chain systems do not utilize chains for precision movement of laboratory test specimens, such as liquid chromatography samples and sample holding trays. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one exemplary embodiment, a chain includes a plurality of links pivotally connected to each other such that the chain is configured to bend in one direction without back-bending, each of the plurality of links including a link body having: an inner side facing a bending direction of the chain; an outer side facing opposite the bending direction of the chain; a back-bending prevention portion proximate the outer side of the link body including a first surface and a second surface, the first surface configured to prevent back bending when engaged with the second surface of a first other of the pivotally connected plurality of links, and the second surface configured to prevent back bending when engaged with the first surface of a second body of the pivotally connected plurality of links; a post feature extending laterally across the link body, the post feature including a portion exposed from the inner side of the chain; and a connection feature configured to engage with the post feature of the first other of the pivotally connected plurality of links to create one direction pivotal attachment without back-bending between the links. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the back-bending prevention portion includes a first flange having the first surface and a second flange having the second surface and a web between the first flange and the second flange. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the web extends from the first and second flanges toward the inner side, and wherein the post feature is connected to the web at the inner side. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the post feature includes a first post portion extending from the web in a first direction, and wherein the post feature includes a second post portion extending from the web in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the post feature is integrally connected to the web. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the post feature is a pin and wherein the web includes an opening such that the post feature is insertable through the opening. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the connection feature includes a first u-shaped body defining a first channel and a second u-shaped body having a second channel, wherein the post feature of the first other of the pivotally connected plurality of links is receivable in the first channel and the second channel. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the web of the first other of the pivotally connected plurality of links is configured to extend between the first u-shaped body and the second u-shaped body. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the entirety of each of the plurality of links is made of a single integral piece of a plastic material. 
     Additionally or alternatively, each of the plurality of links are configured to bend 90 degrees relative to an adjacent of the plurality of links. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a chain system includes a chain including: a plurality of links pivotally connected to each other such that the chain is configured to bend in one direction without back-bending, each of the plurality of links including a link body having: a back-bending prevention portion proximate the outer side of the link body; a post feature extending laterally across the link body; and a connection feature configured to engage with the post feature of the first other of the pivotally connected plurality of links to create one direction pivotal attachment without back-bending between the links. The chain system further includes a magnet attached to a front link of the plurality of links of the chain configured to removably connect the chain to a magnetic feature of a device whereby the chain is configured to push and pull the device along an axis when driven by a drive system. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the chain system further includes a drive system including a rotating gear drive in operable communication with a motor, the rotating gear drive integrating with the post features of each of the plurality of links of the chain. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the motor is a stepper motor configured to move a belt to create rotation of the rotating gear drive. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the drive system further includes a drive system body, the drive system body defining an inner track configured to guide the chain during movement of the chain by the drive system from a retracted position to an extended position, wherein the rotating gear drive includes teeth that extend into the inner track. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the chain system further includes a device track configured to receive the device and guide the device as the chain moves the device along the axis driven by the drive system. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the chain system further includes a liquid chromatography system attached to the device track, wherein the device is a transfer tray configured to hold a sample vial carrier, and wherein the chain is configured to push and pull the transfer tray along the device track into and out of the liquid chromatography system when driven by the drive system. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the chain system further includes an access door located between the device track and the liquid chromatography system, wherein the access door is in operable communication with the drive system. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the access door is configured to open when the chain is extended by the drive system, such that extending the chain from a retracted state is configured to push a transfer tray through an opening of the access door into the liquid chromatography system, and such that retracting the chain from an extended state is configured to pull a transfer tray through the opening of the access door out of the liquid chromatography system. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the device track includes guides that are keyed to the dimensions of the transfer tray. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a method includes providing a chain including a plurality of links pivotally connected to each other such that the chain is configured to bend in one direction without back-bending, wherein the chain includes a magnet attached to a front link of the plurality of links; connecting the magnet to a magnetic feature of a device; pushing the device with the chain in a first direction by driving the chain with a drive system that includes a rotating gear drive in operable communication with a motor; and disconnecting the magnet from the magnetic feature of the device. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and further advantages of this invention may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like elements and features in the various figures. Letters may be appended to reference numbers to distinguish from reference numbers for similar features and to indicate a correspondence to other features in the drawings. For clarity, not every element may be labeled in every figure. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. 
         FIG.  1    is a block diagram of an example of a liquid chromatography system and shows an interface module and solvent delivery system in fluidic communication with a conventional sample manager. 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of the liquid chromatography system of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  3    is a top view of an implementation of a sample tray in the sample manager of  FIGS.  1  and  2   . 
         FIG.  4    is a top view of an example of a transfer drawer. 
         FIG.  5 A  is a perspective view of the sample tray and transfer drawer disconnected from each other. 
         FIG.  5 B  is a perspective view of the sample tray occupied by two transfer drawers in their fully inserted positions. 
         FIG.  6    is a top down view of an alternative example of a sample tray. 
         FIG.  7 A  is a perspective view of the sample manager and the interface module. 
         FIG.  7 B  is the view of the sample manager and the interface module of  FIG.  6 A  with a portion of a housing of the interface module removed. 
         FIG.  8 A  is a perspective view of a window mechanism with the window in the closed state. 
         FIG.  8 B  is the window mechanism of  FIG.  7 A  with the window in the open state. 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of a transfer drawer receiving apparatus. 
         FIG.  10 A  a perspective view of the chain system and the device track of the transfer drawer shown in  FIG.  8    with a portion of the drive system body removed. 
         FIG.  10 B  is a perspective view of the chain system and the device track of  FIG.  8    with the chain in an extended position. 
         FIG.  11    depicts a perspective view of a link of the chain in the chain system shown in  FIGS.  8 A to  9 B . 
         FIG.  12    depicts a perspective view of a first link of the chain coupled to a second link of the chain in an extended, straightened and/or non-bended position. 
         FIG.  13    depicts a perspective view of the chain in a bent position. 
         FIG.  14    is a flowchart representation of an example of a method for loading one or more samples into a sample manager of a liquid chromatography system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference in the specification to “one example” or “an example” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one example of the teaching. References to a particular example within the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same example. 
     The present teaching will now be described in more detail with reference to examples shown in the accompanying drawings. While the present teaching is described in conjunction with various examples, it is not intended that the present teaching be limited to such examples. On the contrary, the present teaching encompasses various alternatives, modifications and equivalents, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art. Those of ordinary skill having access to the teaching herein will recognize additional implementations, modifications and examples, as well as other fields of use, which are within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG.  1    shows an embodiment of a liquid chromatography system  10  for separating a mixture into its constituents. The liquid chromatography system  10  includes a solvent delivery system  12  in fluidic communication with a sample manager  14  (also called an injector or an autosampler) through tubing  16 . The sample manager  14  is in fluidic communication with a chromatographic column  18  and in mechanical and electrical communication with an interface module  19 . A detector  21 , for example, a mass spectrometer, is in fluidic communication with the column  18  to receive the elution. The interface module  19  may be configured to receive a sample-vial carrier from a robotic system  23  and load it into the sample manager  14 , and to retrieve the sample-vial carrier from the sample manager  14  and provide it to the robotic system  23 . The sample-vial carrier may include a plurality of sample-vials each containing a sample to be separated by the liquid chromatography system. “Sample-vial carrier” herein means any device configured to carry one or more samples such as a device that holds vials containing sample or as a well plate with individual wells each configured to hold a sample. The robotic system  23  may be configured to obtain the sample-vial carrier from a remote storage unit and to return the sample-vial carrier to the remote storage unit or a different remote storage unit or location. 
     The solvent delivery system  12  includes a pumping system  20  in fluidic communication with solvent reservoirs  22  from which the pumping system  20  draws solvents (liquid) through tubing  24 . In one embodiment, the pumping system  20  includes a low-pressure mixing gradient pumping system having two pumps fluidically connected in series. In the low-pressure gradient pumping system, the mixing of solvents occurs upstream of the pump, and the solvent delivery system  12  has a mixer  26  in fluidic communication with the solvent reservoirs  22  to receive various solvents in metered proportions. This mixture of solvents (i.e., mobile phase) may be based on a variation in the rate at which each solvent contributes to the mixture. Thus, the mobile phase composition can vary over time according to a predetermined composition gradient. 
     The pumping system  20  is in fluidic communication with the mixer  26  to draw a continuous flow of the mobile phase therefrom for delivery to the sample manager  14 . Examples of solvent delivery systems that can be used to implement the solvent delivery system  12  include, but are not limited to, the ACQUITY® Binary Solvent Manager and the ACQUITY® Quaternary Solvent Manager, manufactured by Waters Corp. of Milford, Mass. 
     The sample manager  14  may include an injector valve  28  having a sample loop  30 . The sample manager  14  operates in one of two states: a load state and an injection state. In the load state, the configuration of the injector valve  28  is such that the sample manager  14  loads a sample  32  into the sample loop  30 . The sample  32  is drawn from a vial held in a sample-vial carrier  100 . In the injection state, the configuration of the injector valve  28  changes so that the sample manager  14  introduces the sample in the sample loop  30  into the continuously flowing mobile phase from the solvent delivery system  12 . The mobile phase thus carries the injected sample to the column  18 . In other embodiments, a flow through needle (FTN) may be utilized instead of a fixed-loop sample manager. Using an FTN approach, the sample may be drawn into the needle and then the needle may be moved into a seal. A valve is then switched to configure the needle to be in-line with the solvent delivery system  12 . 
     The liquid chromatography system  10  further includes a data system  34  that is in signal communication with the solvent delivery system  12  and the sample manager  14 . The data system  34  has a processor  36  and a switch  38  (e.g. an Ethernet switch) for handling signal communication between the solvent delivery system  12 , sample manager  14 , interface module  19  and (optionally) robotic system  23 , as described herein. Signal communication among the various modules and systems can be, for example, electrical or optical and may be based on wireless or wired transmission. A host computing system  40  is in communication with the data system  34  and includes a user interface by which a user can download various parameters and profiles (e.g., mobile phase composition gradient) to the data system  34 . 
       FIG.  2    shows a perspective view of the liquid chromatography system  10  including the solvent delivery system  12 , the sample manager  14 , a column manager  17  that includes the chromatographic column  18 , the solvents  22 , the interface module  19  and a detector module  27  that includes the detector  21 . Each of the solvent delivery system  12 , the sample manager  14 , the chromatographic column  18 , the detector  21  and the interface module  19  may include a housing or body within which the various features, such as the data system  34 , the sample loop  30  and injector valve  28 , the pumping system  20 , the mixer  26  and the tubing  24 , may be enclosed. The various components may be interconnected with fluidic tubes and be in signal communication with the processor  36  and/or other elements of the data system  34 . The liquid chromatography system  10  is shown with the solvent delivery system  12 , sample manager  14 , column manager, detector module and a tray for holding the solvents  22  in a vertical stack. The interface module  19  and the sample manager  14  may be coupled to each other through openings (i.e., apertures) in their respective housings, as described below. 
     The interface module  19  includes a transfer drawer receiving apparatus and a window apparatus. The transfer drawer receiving apparatus includes a device track and a drawer drive system. The device track receives a sample-vial carrier on a transfer drawer. The drawer drive system transports the transfer drawer having the sample-vial carrier disposed thereon into and out from a sample tray of the sample manager. As used herein, a sample tray is an internal component of the sample manager. The sample tray can accept and hold one or more sample-vial carriers or sample well plates. For example, the sample tray may be a rotary tray having one or more compartments to receive a sample-vial carrier or sample well plate. The window apparatus includes a window controllable to be in an open state and a closed state. When in the open state, the window enables transport of the transfer drawer into the sample manager for loading of the sample-vial carrier into the sample tray and enables transport of the transfer drawer out from the sample manager for unloading of the sample-vial carrier from the sample tray. When in the closed state, the window substantially seals an internal environment of the sample manager from the ambient environment. 
       FIG.  3    shows a top view of an implementation of a sample tray  101  of the sample manager  14 . The sample tray  101  includes two tray locations, a first location  102  and a second location  104 . The two tray locations  102 ,  104  may be symmetrically inserted, like the two halves of a playing card. Each compartment may hold a transfer drawer  150  (see  FIG.  4   ). In one example, the first and second locations  102 ,  104  are each also about 3.5″ wide by 5″ deep to accommodate the transfer drawers  150 . The locations  102 ,  104  and the transfer drawers  150  may be designed to support sample-vial carriers or sample-vial plates of different dimensions. The locations  102 ,  104  may be compartments, slots, carriages, chambers, cells, or the like. 
     The sample tray  101  includes a base  112 . The base  112  includes a first side wall  114 , a second side wall  116  opposing the first side wall  114 , and a cross wall  118  bisecting each of the opposing side walls  114 ,  116 . The side walls  114 ,  116  and the cross wall  118  may be of a uniform height and, when viewed from above, together form the capital letter H, with the cross wall  118  dividing the sample tray  101  into the two tray locations  102 ,  104 . 
     Midway in the cross wall  118  is a circular opening  110  for receiving a bolt or a post by which to secure the sample tray  101  to a rotary drive mechanism disposed below the sample chamber. On each of the opposite sides of the cross wall  108  is a semicircular platform  120   a ,  120   b . The semicircular platforms  120   a ,  120   b  rise above sunken surfaces  122   a ,  122   b  of the base  112 . The two semicircular platforms  120   a ,  120   b  are opposite halves of a circular platform bisected by the cross wall. This circular platform and the circular opening  110  in the cross wall  118  are concentric. 
     Along each side wall  114 ,  116  on both sides of the cross wall  118  is a side platform  124  raised above the plane of the depressed or sunken surfaces  122   a ,  122   b . Each side wall  114 ,  116  has a groove  126 . Each side wall  114 ,  116  further includes a leaf spring assembly  128   a ,  128   b , respectively, diagonally opposed from each other across the sample tray  101 . Each leaf spring assembly  128  is used to bias a transfer drawer  150  against an opposing side wall  116 ,  114 . 
     The sample tray  101  includes one calibration hole  130 , which is in one of the side platforms  124 . The calibration hole  130  is an exception to the inverted symmetry between the tray locations  102 ,  104 , there being only one such hole for the sample tray  101 . In this example, the calibration hole  130  is in the first location  102  of the sample tray  101  and penetrates entirely through the side platform  124  with a hole in the datum plate. A metallic or plastic pin is insertable through the calibration hole and datum plate hole. During calibration, an encoder detects this pin and uses it to establish a home (i.e. reference) position from which all other tray positions are known. The pin may be removed after calibration. 
     A first tray magnet  132   a  and a second tray magnet  132   b  may be affixed within the cross wall  118  of the sample tray  101 . More than two magnets are contemplated as shown. In other examples, a single magnet with an opening aligned to the circular opening  110  may extend across the entirety of the cross wall  118 . While the magnets  132   a ,  132   b  are shown on a top or upper surface of the sample tray  101 , in other examples, the magnets  132   a ,  132   b  may be located on an underside or bottom surface of the sample tray  101  such that the magnetic fields of the magnets  132   a ,  132   b  may extend through the body of the sample tray  101 , as described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,194,847, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Whatever the implementation, the magnets  132   a ,  132   b  located on the sample tray  101  may be configured to magnetically attract to corresponding magnets on the transfer drawers  150  and to retain the transfer drawer  150  in a removably coupled position with respect to the transfer tray  101  as described below. 
       FIG.  4    depicts a top view of a transfer drawer  150  in accordance with one example. The transfer drawer  150  may be a rectangular sample-vial carrier that is 3.5″ wide by 5″ deep. The transfer drawer  150  has a planar surface  152  with opposing side edges  154   a ,  154   b , a handle  156  at a front edge  158 , and an arcuate rear edge  160  that forms prongs  162   a ,  162   b . Extending from each of the prongs  162   a ,  162   b  is a post  164   a ,  164   b , respectively. The posts  164   a ,  164   b  may serve as positional guides or locators for directing a sample-vial carrier onto the planar surface  152  of the transfer drawer  150 . Each side edge  154   a ,  154   b  may further include a side tongue  166   a ,  166   b  extending along a length of the edge. The side tongues  166   a ,  166   b  enter the grooves  126  of the sample tray  101 . As the transfer drawer  150  slides into one of the first or second locations  102 ,  104 , the side tongues  142  slide through the grooves  126  in the side platforms  124 . 
     The transfer drawer  150  includes a first plurality of drawer magnet holders  168   a  located in the first prong  162   a  holding a first drawer magnet  169   a . The transfer drawer  150  includes a second plurality of drawer magnet holders  168   b  located in the second prong  162   b  holding a second drawer magnet  169   b . The drawer magnet holders  168   a ,  168   b  may be configured to hold, retain, or secure the first and second drawer magnets  169   a ,  169   b  to the transfer drawer  150 . In other examples, the first and second rear magnets  169   a ,  169   b  may be affixed or otherwise attached, fashioned, stuck or glued to the prongs  162   a ,  162   b . When the transfer drawer  150  is inserted into one of the locations  102 ,  104  of the sample tray  101 , the first and second drawer magnets  169   a ,  169   b  may be aligned with, and magnetically attracted to, the first and second tray magnets  132   a ,  132   b , respectively, as described in more detail below. The first and second drawer magnets  169   a ,  169   b  may each be a single magnet, or may each include a plurality of magnets in other examples. The first and second drawer magnets  169   a ,  169   b  may be any number of magnets configured to provide the desired level of magnetic attraction to the first and second tray magnets  132   a ,  132   b . While the first and second drawer magnets  169   a ,  169   b  are shown located on the upper surface or top of the transfer drawer  150 , in other examples, the first and second drawer magnets  169   a ,  169   b  may be affixed to the underside or bottom surface of the transfer drawer  150 . 
     The transfer drawer  150  further includes a transfer magnet  170  disposed on the handle  156 . The transfer magnet  170  is used to engage a drive magnet of a drawer drive system used to push or pull the transfer drawer  150  into or out from the sample tray  101  of the sample manager  14 . 
       FIG.  5 A  is a perspective view of the sample tray  101  and transfer drawer  150  disconnected from each other and  FIG.  5 B  is a perspective view of the sample tray  101  occupied by two transfer drawers  150  in their fully inserted positions. Although absent from  FIG.  5 B  to better show the posts  164  relative to open regions in the cross wall  118 , the drawer magnets  169  on the transfer drawer  150  are in engagement with the tray magnets  132 . Thus, the magnets  132 ,  169  ensure an accurate positioning of each transfer drawer  150  along the direction of drawer travel and the leaf spring assemblies  128  ensure an accurate position of each transfer drawer  150  in the direction perpendicular to the direction of drawer travel. The sample tray  101  may be rotated about the vertical axis  140  to accommodate either manual or robotic loading. For example, the sample tray  101  may be oriented in a first position such that one of the transfer drawers  150  can be accessed from the front of the sample manager  14  through the access door  16  ( FIG.  2   ) for manual loading and unloading. The other transfer drawer  150  can be accessed through the access door  16  by rotating the sample tray  101  by 180°. Alternatively, the sample tray  101  may be oriented at a second position that is at 90° degrees to the first position such that one of the transfer drawers  150  can be accessed through a side access in the sample manager, as described below, for robotic loading and unloading. Rotating by 180° from the second position allows the other transfer drawer  150  to be loaded or unloaded by the robotic system  23 . 
       FIG.  6    is a top down view of an alternative example of a sample tray  172  which includes four compartments  178  each for holding a transfer drawer  150 . The compartments  178  are disposed with an angular separation of 90° from each neighboring compartments. Two of the compartments  178  are occupied by sample-vial carriers  174  in the corresponding transfer drawers  150 , a third compartment  178  at the top of the figure has a partially retracted transfer drawer  150  and the fourth compartment  178  is shown with its transfer drawer  150  fully removed. The base  112  is sized to encircle the remainder of the sample tray  172  when all four transfer drawers  150  are fully inserted into their compartments  178 . The sample tray  172  may be substantially larger than the sample tray  101  shown in  FIG.  3    to accommodate the additional compartments  178  and sample-vial carriers  174 . In this configuration, the sample tray  172  can be moved in 90° increments to allow access to any one of the compartments  178 . In still other alternative examples, the sample tray may include three compartments and transfer drawers or five or more compartments and transfer drawers. The dimensions of the compartments and transfer drawers may vary according to the number of compartment and drawers, and according to the size of the sample-vial carriers. 
       FIG.  7 A  is a perspective view of the sample manager  14  and the interface module  19 . A portion of the housing surrounding the internal components of the sample manager  14  is removed to permit viewing of the internal environment defined by the housing.  FIG.  7 B  is a view similar to that shown in  FIG.  7 A ; however, a portion of a housing  301  that encloses components of the interface module  19  is removed to permit viewing of internal components. The transfer drawer  150  is shown in a position awaiting transfer of a sample-vial carrier  310  into the sample manger  14  or awaiting removal of the sample-vial carrier  310  from the transfer drawer  150  such as part of an unloading process. 
     The sample manager  14  includes a front access door  16  which may be manually opened by grasping a handle  304  and pulling to permit a user to access the internal components such as the sample tray  101 . This means of access may be used for manual loading and unloading of sample-vial carriers  310 . The sample manager  14  further includes a side enclosure panel  306  having an aperture that provides a second means of access to its internal environment, for example, to provide a means for loading and unloading by the robotic system  23 . 
     The interface module  19  includes a transfer drawer receiving apparatus  400  (see  FIG.  8   ) used for loading the sample-vial carrier  310  into the sample manager  14  and for unloading the sample-vial carrier  310  from the sample manager  14 . The loading and unloading processes may be performed using a robotic system  23  such as a system having a robotic arm to provide the sample-vial carrier  310  to the transfer drawer  150  and to remove the sample-vial carrier  310  from the transfer drawer  150 . Alternatively, a user can manually load and unload sample-vial carriers  310  using the interface module  19  or using the access door  16  at the front of the sample manager  14  for direct access to the sample tray  101 . 
     The interface module  19  includes a plate  312  that may be secured or otherwise mounted to the side enclosure panel  306  of the sample manager  14  using bolts, screws or the like. The plate  312  may have a thermally-insulating material, such as a conformable foam, attached to the side of the plate  312  nearest the side enclosure panel  306 . The plate  312  includes a plate aperture  314  that is nominally aligned with the aperture (not visible) in the side enclosure panel  306  of the sample manager  14 . In addition, the transfer drawer receiving apparatus  400  includes a device track  410  along which the transfer drawer  150  moves into and out from the sample manager  14 . The device track  410  may be attached near or at one end to one or more internal structures inside the sample manager  14 . 
     The interface module  19  further includes a window mechanism having a window that can be controlled to be in an open state and a closed state. As used herein, “window” means a blockable aperture, or blockable opening, in a structure (e.g., the plate  312 ). The sample-vial carrier  310  can pass through the window when the window is in an open state. The window prevents passage of the sample-vial carrier  310  and environmentally seals the sample manager  14  when the window is in a closed state. 
     Referring back to  FIG.  5 B , the sample tray  101  may include a built-in leak management system which may be configured to account for spillage and waste management of samples or fluids within the sample manager  14 . Thus, the sample tray  101  may be designed in a manner such that any fluidic leaks will travel along the bottom of the tray to one or more waste port(s). The leak paths may be solvent resistant in order to prevent damage within the sample manager  14 . Additionally, spillage may occur outside the sample manager  14  at the interface module  19 . The interface module  19  may include a leak management system that leverages the leak management waste port within the sample manager  14  in the sample tray  101 . Particularly, the interface module  19  include a channel, crevasse, indentation, or fluidic path along a solvent resistant surface that transfers a leak or spill from the interface module  19  to the sample tray  101  within the sample manager  14 . The leak or spill may then be transferred from the interface module  19  to the one or more waste portals of the sample tray  101 . This may obviate the need for the interface module  19  from requiring its own leak management port (and associated tubing) therein. However, it is also contemplated that the interface module  19  could be configured with its own secondary leak management portal that is additional to the one or more waste port(s) within the sample tray  101  and/or sample manager  14 . Further, such a leak management system within the interface module  19  may protect any electronics within the interface module  19 . 
       FIG.  8 A  show a perspective view of the window mechanism  300  with the window in the closed state and  FIG.  8 B  shows a view of the window mechanism with the window in the open state. A bracket  302  and a window panel  318  visible in  FIG.  8 A  are not shown in  FIG.  8 B  to permit viewing of components that would otherwise be obscured. An aperture  314  in the plate  312  is aligned to the aperture in the side panel  306  of the housing of the sample manager  14 . When the window is in a closed state, foam or another conformable sealing material engages an outer surface of the side enclosure panel  306 , at least around the aperture in the side panel  306  and the device track  410  (described below, to seal the sample manager  14  and facilitate thermal control of the internal environment of the sample manager  14 . Although a bottom portion of the aperture  314  in the plate  312  is shown as unobstructed in the closed state according to  FIG.  8 A , other components of the interface module  19 , such as the device track  410  in the transfer drawer receiving apparatus, are not shown in the drawing but occupy the lower portion of the aperture  314  so that the aperture  314  is fully obstructed. The window is put into the open state to enable transport of the transfer drawer  150  into and out from the sample manager  14  through the aperture in the side enclosure panel  306  during loading of the sample-vial carrier  310  into the sample tray  101  and during unloading of the sample-vial carrier  310  from the sample tray  101 . The window is preferably maintained in the closed state at other times to reduce or minimize the exposure of the internal environment of the sample manager  14  to the ambient environment. 
     In the illustrated implementation, the bracket  302  can be moved upward to open the window and to move downward to close the window. A window panel  318 , e.g., a thin sheet metal plate, is attached to the bracket  302  and is the element that blocks and seals the aperture in the sample manager side enclosure panel  306 . Referring to  FIG.  8 B , the window panel  318  is not shown; however, the attachment points  320  (e.g., bolt holes) where the window panel  318  attaches to the bracket  302  are visible. The side of the window panel  318  that faces the sample manager  14  is preferably covered with a foam or other thermally-insulating material. In addition, the perimeter of the window panel  318  that comes into contact with the side enclosure panel  306  preferably includes a thermally-insulating conformable material to seal around the perimeter of the aperture in the panel  306 . In some implementations, the thermally-insulating materials are the same material. 
     The bracket  302  is attached on one side via bushings  322  to a first vertical post  324 . At the other side of the bracket  302 , a pair of guides  326  engage a second vertical guide post  328  to maintain the bracket  302  parallel to the back plate  312 . The bracket  302  is driven vertically upward or downward through rotation of a lead screw  330  that is driven by a rotary motor (e.g., stepper motor)  332  and belt  336 . Two optical sensors  334   a  and  334   b  are attached to the plate  312 . The first optical sensor  334   a  is blocked by an “optical flag”  338  when the bracket  302  moves upward to a position at which the window is unobscured, i.e., in the open state to permit loading and unloading operations. The second optical sensor  334   b  is blocked by the optical flag  338  when the bracket  302  moves downward to a position at which the window is in the closed state. In an alternative example, the optical sensors  334  are omitted and an indexer tracks the rotation of a stepper motor to determine when the window is in the open state or the closed state. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  9   , a perspective view is shown of the transfer drawer receiving apparatus  400  including a chain system  402  having a chain  404 , a drive magnet  406 , and a chain drive system  408  configured to move the chain  404  in a direction parallel to the device track  410 . The chain system  402  is housed within the housing  310  of the interface module  19 , which has been removed in the view shown in  FIG.  9   . The chain system  402  is configured to push and/or pull transfer drawers  150  along the device track  410 . 
     While the description of the chain system  402  hereinafter will focus on one specific implementation of a chain and accompanying drive and attachment systems or mechanisms, some or all of the various features of the chain system  402 , the chain  404 , the drive magnet  406 , and/or the chain drive system  408  may be incorporated into various embodiments and various implementations. For example, rather than a liquid chromatography system, the chain  404 , with or without the drive magnet  406  and/or drive system  408 , may be utilized in various other laboratory systems, testing systems, assembly systems, pick and place systems, dispensing systems, or various other automated, robotic or manual machines, devices or systems. 
     Thus, embodiments of the present invention include a one-way bending chain that is precluded from back bending, incorporating the link structure described herein. Other embodiments of the present invention include a magnet attached to a push-pull drive chain incorporating the described link and chain structure. Still other embodiments include a chain having links with a post that is exposed from an inner side of a chain configured to receive teeth of a drive gear. Still further, embodiments of the invention may include a one-way bending chain that is precluded from back bending, incorporating links having an integral plastic body structure, without requiring separable pins and link bodies. Embodiments of the invention may include a one-way bending chain that is precluded from back bending but allows for 90-degree bending between two adjacent links by, for example, utilizing the link structure described herein. 
     Other embodiments of the invention include using a chain system, including some or all of the structure described herein, for an interface module, such as the interface module  19 , that is configured to load and unload sample trays or samples, for a sample managing system used for chromatography, liquid chromatography, or any other sample analysis system. For example, embodiments of the invention may include utilizing a one-way bending chain that is precluded from back bending, in combination with a chain drive system, to push and pull transfer drawers having samples into and out of an analytical chamber, such as the liquid chromatography sample manager  14 . 
     Referring still to  FIG.  9   , the chain  404  includes a plurality of links  450  that are attached, coupled, or otherwise connected such that the chain  404  is configured to bend in a first direction without back bending in an opposite direction from the first direction. Each of the links  450  of the chain  404  may include the same structure, as shown in  FIG.  11    and described herein below. 
     The chain  404  is shown driven by the chain drive system  408  that comprises a stepper motor  412  that turns a drive belt  414  to rotate a drive gear  416 . The drive gear  416  is shown having a larger radius than the stepper motor  412 , which may be desirable to increase precision of movement translated from the stepper motor  412  by the drive gear  416  to the chain  404 . However, other embodiments are contemplated in which the radius of the drive belt  414  at the stepper motor  412  is the same or larger than the radius of the drive belt  414  at the drive gear  416 . 
     In other embodiments (not shown), the chain  404  may be driven by a direct drive system, rather than the drive system shown, which requires the drive belt  414  to rotate the drive gear  416 . In such a direct drive system, the drive belt  414  and gear  416  may not be necessary. Instead, the motor may turn an output shaft that is directly interfaces with the chain  404  for movement thereof. Thus, the invention is not limited to the specific drive mechanism shown, and other mechanisms for moving the chain  404  are contemplated. 
     The stepper motor  412  may provide for precise movement of the chain  404 . The stepper motor  412  may be one of various forms of stepper motors, such as a unipolar motor, a bipolar motor, or the like. The stepper motor  412  may be configured to rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise in order to create rotation on the gear drive  416  and extend or retract the chain  404 . The stepper motor  412  may include an indexer or other microprocessor for controlling movement, along with a driver for converting indexer signals to power. While the stepper motor  412  may provide for movement of the chain  404  in a manner that does not require additional position sensors or feedback in order to verify the accuracy or position of the chain  404  and/or drive magnet  406  that is attached thereto, position or movements sensors may be provided to monitor the chain drive system  408 . While the stepper motor  412  may be one embodiment contemplated for driving the chain  404 , other types of motors, systems, or the like are contemplated, such as servo motors, brushless DC motors, or the like. 
     The chain system  400  is further shown having a drive system body  420  including a first plate  422  and a second plate  424 . A plurality of male-female spacers  426  are shown connecting and spacing apart the first plate  422  and the second plate  424 . The male-female spacers  426  are shown comprising an externally threaded male head threaded into an internally threaded female hexagonal spacer post. The drive system body  420  may be configured to house and protect the chain  404  and guide the movement of the chain  404  created through the stepper motor  412 . It should be understood that the drive system body  420  is one example of a housing for accomplishing this functionality and that other housings are contemplated. For example, the chain  404  may be fully enclosed by the drive system body  420  rather than being spaced apart by the plurality of male-female spacers  426 . 
       FIG.  10 A  depicts a perspective view of the chain system  400  and the device track  410  of  FIG.  9   , with a portion of the drive system body  420  removed in accordance with one embodiment. The second plate  424  of the drive system body  420  is removed in  FIG.  10 A , in order to reveal the stepper motor  412 , the drive belt  414  and the drive gear  416  of the chain drive system  408 , along with the male-female spacers  426 . As shown in  FIG.  10 A , the first plate  422  of the drive system body  420  includes an inner track  430  configured to guide the chain  404  during movement by the chain drive system  408  from a retracted position shown, to an extended position (not shown) where the chain  404  extends along the device track  410 . The inner track  430  accommodates the entire length of the chain  404  in its retracted position, as shown. The left and right sides of the chain  404 , and the posts extending therefrom may be housed within the inner track  430 . While the inner track  430  of the first plate  422  is shown, it should be understood that the second plate  424  includes a corresponding inner track for receiving the side of the chain  404  (and the posts thereof) that is exposed in  FIG.  10   . 
     As shown, the inner track  430  may be curved in one direction to accommodate the chain  404  that is configured to bend in one direction without back-bending. The inner track  430  is shown curving around the drive gear  416 . The inner track  430  may be dimensioned to be slightly larger than the chain  404  itself so that the chain  404  slides easily within the inner track  430  with only the sliding friction between the material of each. The inner track  430  and/or chain  404  may include lubrication or other friction reducing mechanism to provide for ease of extension and retraction of the chain  404  therein. 
     The gear drive  416  may be configured to rotate when the belt  414  is moved by the rotating stepper motor  412 . The gear drive  416  may be configured to integrate with a post feature (described more specifically herein below and shown in  FIG.  11   ) of each of the links  450  of the chain  404 . The gear drive  416  may include a gear having teeth which extend into the inner track  430  of the drive system body  420  to provide for meshing or otherwise coupling between the gear drive  416  and the chain  404 . The teeth of the gear drive  416  may extend into the inner track  430  at a curved portion that curves around the circular profile of the gear drive  416  to allow an increased length of the chain  404  to be enmeshed with the gear drive  416  relative to another embodiment having a gear drive that extends into a straight portion of the track. 
     The device track  410  includes a track base  440  having a base channel  441 , a left wall  442  having a left channel  443 , and a right wall  444  having a right channel  445 . The left wall  442  and the right wall  444  each include a spacing, opening, or removed section  446  configured to receive the access door  16  described hereinabove. The channels  441 ,  443 ,  445  and dimensions of the device track  410  may be keyed to the particular dimensions and corresponding protrusions of the transfer drawers  150  described hereinabove. However, in other embodiments, the device track  410  may include any dimensions and/or channels or extending protrusions appropriate to move whatever device requires pushing and pulling with the chain system  400 . 
       FIG.  10 B  depicts a perspective view of the chain system  400  and the device track  410  of  FIG.  9   , having the chain  404  in an extended position, in accordance with one embodiment. When in the retracted position shown in  FIG.  10 A , the stepper motor  412  may be rotated, causing the belt  414  to exact rotation on the gear drive  416  which is meshed with one or more exposed post features of the links of the chain to drive the chain forward along the inner track  430  and out of the drive system body  420 . When a transfer drawer  150  is magnetically attached to the drive magnet  406 , this extraction or extension of the chain  404  by the chain drive system  408 , is configured to move the transfer drawer  150  along the device track  410 . Thus, the chain drive system  408  may be configured to apply enough force on the chain  404  to overcome the static and/or sliding friction between the transfer drawer  150  and the device track  410 . As shown, the chain  404  may be long enough such that at least a portion of the back end of the chain  404  may remain in the inner track  430  of the drive system body  420  when the chain  404  is in the extended state. This may facilitate retraction of the chain  404  back into the drive system body  420 . 
     In one embodiment, the chain  404  may remain in the retracted state (shown in  FIG.  10 A ) by default. This may allow for the transfer drawer  150  to be placed onto the device track  410  manually, or by a robotic or automated system. Once the transfer drawer  150  is placed in position on the device track  410 , extension of the chain  404  may be initiated by the chain drive system  408 . This movement may place the drive magnet  406  in magnetic attachment with a magnet of the transfer drawer  150  for subsequent movement of the transfer drawer  150  through the access door  16 . 
       FIG.  11    depicts a perspective view of a link  450  of the chain  430  of the chain system  400  of  FIGS.  9  and  10    in accordance with one embodiment. The link  450  represents one of the links of the chain  404 . However, the chain  404  may comprise as many of the links  450  in order to provide for a sufficient length for a given application. Each of the links  450  of the chain  404  may have the same structure, shown in  FIG.  10    as the link  450   a.    
     As shown, the link  450  includes a link body  452  having an inner side  454  facing a bending direction B of the chain  404 . The link body  452  further includes an outer side  456  facing opposite the bending direction B of the chain  404 . The link body  452  still further includes a back-bending prevention portion  458  proximate the outer side  456  of the link body  452 . The back-bending prevention portion  458  includes a first surface  460  and a second surface  462 . The first surface  460  is configured to prevent back bending when engaged with the second surface of a first other of the pivotally connected links  450  (as shown in  FIG.  12    and described in more detail herein below). The second surface  462  is configured to prevent back-bending when engaged with the first surface of a second other of the pivotally connected links  460 . The link body  452  still further includes a post feature  464  extending laterally across the link body  452 . The post feature  464  includes a portion  466  exposed from the inner side  454  of the chain  404  when the link  450  is connected or otherwise coupled to adjacent links to form the chain  404 . The link body  452  still further includes a connection feature  468  that is configured to engage with the post feature  464  of the first other of the pivotally connected links  450   b  to create one direction pivotal attachment without back-bending between the links  450 . 
     Referring more specifically to the back-bending prevention portion  458 , this portion includes a first flange  470  having the first surface  460  and a second flange  472  having the second surface  462  and a web  474  extending between the first flange  470  and the second flange  472 . The first flange  470 , the second flange  472  and the web  474  may create an I shaped cross section when viewing the outer side  456  from above. The first surface  460  extends in a plane that is parallel to the axis of the post feature  464  and also parallel to the vertically extending axis defined by the bending direction B. The web  474  creates the middle of the I shape and extends between the first flange  470  and the second flange  472 . The web  474  also extends in the vertical bending direction B below the first and second flanges  470 ,  472  toward the inner side  454  of the chain  404 . 
     The post feature  464  is connected to the web  474  at the inner side  454  of the chain  404 . The post feature  464  is shown including a first post portion  476  extending from the web  474  in a first direction, and a second post portion  478  extending from the web  474  in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. The post feature  464  extends between the link body  452  in a direction that is parallel to the plane of the first and second surfaces  460 ,  462  of the first and second flanges  470 ,  472 . The post feature  464  extends across the link body  452  in direction that is perpendicular to the direction the length of the chain  404  extends. 
     As shown, the post feature  464  is integrally connected to the web  474 . For example, the entirety of the link body  452  may be made of a single material mold. In one embodiment, the link body  452  may be made of molded plastic. In other embodiments, the link body  452  may be made of molded metal. Still other embodiments, the link body  452  may be three dimensionally printed. In still other embodiments, some or all of the features of the link body  452  may be created by attaching, connecting, or otherwise coupling more than one component together. For example, in one contemplated embodiment, the post feature  464  is instead a separate pin component and the web  474  includes at least one opening such that the post feature  464  is insertable through the opening and held in place by interference fit, or with any other attachment means, such as a crimp ring retainer or the like. Various other structural embodiments are contemplated. 
     Extending from the second flange  472  in the bending direction B below the second flange  472  is the connection feature  468 . The connection feature  468  includes a first u-shaped body  480  defining a first channel  482  and a second u-shaped body  484  having a second channel (not shown). The first and second u-shaped bodies  480 ,  484 , and respective channels  482  each comprise the same structural dimension. The post feature  464  of adjacent pivotally connected links are receivable in the first channel and the second channel, as shown more specifically in  FIG.  12   . Similarly, the web  474  of adjacent pivotally connected links are configured to extend between the first u-shaped body  480  and the second u-shaped body  484 . The connection feature  468  still further includes a shelf  486  upon which a lower surface of the first flange  470  of the back-bending prevention portion  458  may rest when two adjacent links are in an extended, straight and/or non-bended position. 
       FIG.  12    depicts a perspective view of a first link  450   a  of the chain  430  coupled to a second link  450   b  of the chain  404  in an extended, straightened and/or non-bended position accordance with one embodiment. The first and second links  450   a ,  450   b  are each shown as including the same structure and dimensions as the link  450  of  FIG.  11   . As shown, the post feature  464   b  of the second link  450   b  is coupled to the connection feature  468   a  of the first link  450   a . In particular, each of the channels  482   a  of the u-shaped bodies  480   a  of the first link  450   a  are shown having received the post feature  464   b  of the second link  450   b . While hidden by the body of the first link  450   a , the web  474   b  of the second link  450   b  extends through the opening between the two connection features  468   a  of the first link  450   a . In the extended position shown, the first flange  470   b  of the second link  450   b  is almost resting on the shelf  486   a  of the first link  450   a . Still further, the first surface  460   b  of the second link  450   b  is shown adjacent and proximate the second surface  462   a  of the first link  450   a . Because a narrow gap exists between the surfaces  462   a ,  460   b  of the first and second links  450   a ,  450   b , the chain  404  is not fully extended and is very slightly bent. When the narrow gap closes completely, the first and second links  450   a ,  450   b  become fully extended and are stopped or otherwise prevented from back-bending by the contact between the surfaces  462   a ,  460   b  and/or the contact with the first flange  470   b  of the second link  450   b  with the shelf  486   a  of the first link  450   a.    
       FIG.  13    depicts a perspective view of the chain  430  in a bent position, in accordance with one embodiment. As shown, the chain  430  includes a 90-degree bend between two adjacent links  450   a ,  450   b .  FIG.  13    shows that the structure of the links  450   a ,  450   b  provide a coupling that allows for 90-degree bending without separation or decoupling. This 90-degree maximum bent state provided for by the structure of the two adjacent links  450   a ,  450   b  allows for the chain  404  to have a maximum amount of inward flexibility in the bending direction B. In some embodiments, the maximum bending may be less than 90 degrees while maintaining attachment of adjacent links  450   a ,  450   b.    
     Methods of pushing and/or pulling a device with a chain are also contemplated. For example, a method may include providing a chain, such as the chain  404 , including a plurality of links, such as the links  450 , pivotally connected to each other such that the chain is configured to bend in one direction without back-bending. The chain includes a magnet, such as the drive magnet  406 , attached to a front link of the plurality of links. The method may include connecting the magnet to a magnetic feature of a device, such as the transfer drawer  150 . The method further may include pushing the device with the chain in a first direction by driving the chain with a drive system, such as the drive system  408 , that includes a rotating gear drive, such as the gear drive  416  in operable communication with a motor, such as the stepper motor  412 . The method may still further include disconnecting the magnet from the magnetic feature of the device. 
     Methods may further include fashioning a non-back-bending, one way chain that comprises duplicated integral links made of, for example, a molded plastic. Methods may include maintaining attachment between links of a one-way bending chain that is precluded from back bending, when one link is bent up to 90 degrees about another link. Methods may further include utilizing a one-way bending chain that is precluded from back bending chain for automating the loading and unloading of a device into a testing machine. Specifically, methods may include utilizing a one-way bending chain that is precluded from back bending having a magnetic drive feature for loading and unloading transfer drawers configured to hold sample vial carriers into and out of a liquid chromatography system such as a sample manager. 
     The interface module  19  further includes a processor in communication with the transfer drawer receiving apparatus  400 , window apparatus  300  and/or the chain system  402 . The processor may be implemented as an electronics control board such as a printed circuit board with electronics components, and/or may be implemented with one or more discrete processing elements such as a microprocessor. The processor controls the functions of the transfer drawer receiving apparatus  400 , including controlling the transport of the transfer drawer  150  into and out from the sample tray  101 . This may include controlling the stepper motor  412 , drive belt  414  and drive gear  416 , for example. Similarly, the processor controls the functions of the window apparatus  300 , including opening and closing the window. For example, the processor can issue control commands, such as commands to the motors  412  and  332  of the transfer drawer receiving apparatus  400  and window apparatus  300 , respectively, in response to signals received from one or more optical sensors, magnetic sensors and the like. Thus, the processor may be in operable communication with one or more various sensor devices disposed as needed within the interface module  19  to assure precision of movement, the timing of opening and closing the window apparatus  300 . The processor may be configured to reduce the amount of “open” time to a minimum (i.e. only when the transfer tray is being inserted or removed from the system through the window apparatus  300 ) to ensure minimal fluctuation in the internal atmospheric conditions within the liquid chromatography system, and the like. In an alternative example, the processor may be implemented as part of a liquid chromatography system processor (e.g., processor  34  in  FIG.  1   ) used to control operation of additional components of a liquid chromatography system, such as operations of valves and pumps. In another alternative example, the processor is in further communication with the robotic system used to provide sample-vial carriers to and/or remove sample-vial carriers from the transfer drawer. In still other embodiments, multiple processors may be utilized—one controlling the chain system  402  and the drive system thereof, and the other controlling the window apparatus  300 . 
       FIG.  14    is a flowchart representation of an example of a method  500  for loading one or more samples into a sample manager of a liquid chromatography system. The method  500  includes opening ( 510 ) the window of the window apparatus to enable access to the sample tray of the sample manager. Subsequently, the transfer drawer is pulled ( 520 ) from the sample tray through the window so that the transfer drawer is externally accessible. The window is then closed (step  530 ) to maintain an acceptable internal environment for the sample manager. Preferably, the duration when the window is open is no more than a few seconds (e.g., less than three seconds). An acceptable duration may be determined according to the frequency of load and unload operations and according to the time required to move the transfer drawer between its fully inserted position and its fully withdrawn position. For example, the transfer drawer may be made accessible to a programmable arm or other robotic manipulator mechanism. Any previously loaded sample-vial carrier is grasped or otherwise acquired by the robotic arm, removed (step  540 ) from the transfer drawer and placed in a remote storage location or other location within range of the robotic arm. 
     The robotic arm moves to a location remote to the liquid chromatography system where one or more sample-vial carriers are stored. For example, the sample-vial carriers may be stored in a sample organizer within reach of the robotic arm and may have multiple shelves each configured to hold a sample-vial carrier. The sample organizer may include a thermally-controlled storage environment. The robotic arm acquires a sample-vial carrier containing one or more sample-vials and moves the sample-vial carrier along a path toward the interface module. The sample-vial carrier is placed (step  550 ) on the transfer drawer. The window of the transfer window apparatus is opened (step  560 ) and the transfer drawer receiving apparatus pushes (step  570 ) the transfer drawer through the open window until the transfer drawer is in the properly loaded position with the sample-vial carrier on the sample tray. 
     The transfer drawer receiving apparatus is then disengaged (decoupled) (step  580 ) from the transfer drawer. This is accomplished by decoupling the drive magnet on the chain of the transfer drawer receiving apparatus from the transfer magnet on the transfer drawer. Decoupling is accomplished by rotating the sample tray about its rotation axis so that the resulting shear force between the coupled magnets is enough to overcome the magnetic attraction force between the magnets. For example, the sample tray may be commanded to rotate 90° about the vertical axis  140  shown in  FIG.  5 B . After the magnets are decoupled, the transfer chain and drive magnet are retracted ( 590 ) through the open window to an external position outside the sample manager before the window is closed (step  600 ). Operation of the sample manager may resume at this time or there may be a delay imposed to allow for the temperature of the internal environment to settle to an acceptable value. 
     It will be recognized that the certain steps of the method  500  may occur in a different order or may be omitted. For example, the window may remain open for the full duration of the time required to remove a sample-vial carrier from the sample manager and to load the next sample-vial carrier into the sample manager. Moreover, some aspects of the method  500  may be performed simultaneously. For example, two robotic arms may be used: one robotic arm for removing a sample-vial carrier and a second robotic arm to load another sample-vial carrier without the delay otherwise incurred in waiting for a single robotic arm to be available for loading after an unload operation. 
     While the invention has been shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as recited in the accompanying claims.