Method of handling laboratory sample containers and apparatus for handling laboratory sample containers

A method of determining an incorrect placement of a laboratory sample container, the method comprising:

• gripping the laboratory sample container with gripping fingers of a gripping device;
• moving, with an electric motor that is configured to operate in a torque mode that provides an adjustable torque and in a velocity mode that provides an adjustable velocity, the laboratory sample container using the velocity mode to a position intended to be in alignment with an orifice that is defined in a laboratory sample container rack;
• releasing, using the electric motor in the torque mode, the laboratory sample container in a vertical direction (z) for a duration between 10 ms and 200 ms while maintaining a grip on the laboratory sample container with the gripping fingers;
• detecting for the presence of a free fall movement of the laboratory sample container in the vertical direction (z);
• and
• generating an error upon determination that the laboratory sample container moved in the vertical direction (z) during the duration, the determination corresponding to indicia that the laboratory sample container rack is not placed at a target position (TP) that is defined as coinciding with a placement of the laboratory sample container within the orifice such that movement of the laboratory sample container in the vertical direction (z) is avoided.