Apparatus and methods for processing and cataloging of samples

A device for processing and cataloging of a sample, in a container having a label with originating identifying data, wherein the sample is to be transferred to a processing cassette, the processing cassette having second identifying data thereon, the device comprising:

• a framework defining a work area, wherein the work area includes first and second locations for receiving the container and the cassette respectively;
• a set of cameras mounted in the framework;
• a controller system coupled to the cameras, the controller system including a controller and a non-transitory memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the controller, cause carrying out of computer processes comprising:
• causing members of the set of cameras to capture at a moment in time:
• an image of the sample in the work area;
• an image of the originating identifying data;
• an image of the second identifying data;
• and
• a set of images documenting a transfer of the sample from the container to the processing cassette;
• transforming the originating identifying data and the second identifying data into first and second digitally encoded texts respectively;
• comparing the first and second digitally encoded texts to assure consistency between the originating identifying data of the container label and the second identifying data of the processing cassette;
• processing the image of the sample so as to produce a data output characterizing attributes of the sample;
• integrating the data output into a catalog record output characterizing the sample, such record also including the originating identifying data;
• and
• analyzing the captured set of images documenting the transfer to identify a transfer error in which at least a portion of the sample has failed to have been transferred to the processing cassette.