Automated sample diagnostic analyzer and method for its operation

A method of operating an automated analyzer of biological samples comprising:

• placing a shuttle rack carrying sample containers for analysis at a location adjacent to an analyzer housing;
• moving a robotic arm comprising an end effector such that the end effector translates to a position adjacent the analyzer while the other portions of the robot remain in the analyzer wherein the end effector comprises a body with first and second fingers extending therefrom, each finger having an engagement feature thereon wherein the first and second fingers are disposed in a channel in the body and can be translated closer together or further apart by the robot;
• advancing the first and second fingers toward the rack shuttle such that the engagement features of the first and second fingers enter corresponding slots in the rack shuttle wherein a distance between the slots in the rack corresponds to a distance between the fingers extending from the body when the fingers are inserted in the slots;
• once the engagement features are advanced into the slots, translating the fingers of the robotic arm closer together to grasp the shuttle rack located within a pre-analytical system;
• and
• moving the shuttle rack from the position adjacent the analyzer into the analyzer using the robotic arm.