Automated precision object holder and method of using same

摘要

This invention provides an object holder for precisely positioning an object such as a microtiter plate on a support fixture. The object holders can also include a retaining device on a support fixture for receiving an object. In use, the object is generally positioned on the fixture relative to alignment surfaces of the object. Pushers then precisely position the object in a desired location. The invention also provides integrated systems that coordinate the actions of different components of the object holders. For example, once an object is in a desired position, a controller can activate a retaining device to retain the object in the object holder in the desired orientation.