Odyssey™: High-throughput plate storage and retrieval system

The Odyssey is a high-throughput plate storage and retrieval system designed specifically for protein crystallization. The system is equipped with an identification system and barcode tracking, enabling programmed access to each microwell plate, and can process over 400,000 plates a year. The systems are fully automatic and include comprehensive safety features assuring reliable and safe operation. Ultra-precise robotics and closed loop servo systems provide for a vibration minimizing environment. The tracking data, crystal images, and scoring data are all accessed using a customized database, designed to be compatible with a variety of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). GUI access points are located both internally and externally to cold/warm room. Personal work in comfort rather than the in the extreme environments that the Odyssey and experiment plates are subject too. The Odyssey is available in three configurations:

• Odyssey 2.5K: 2,500 plate storage and retrieval system
• Odyssey 5K: 5,000 plate storage and retrieval system
• Odyssey 10K: 10,000 plate storage and retrieval system 

Storage and management of plates is just the first step in the process of protein crystallization. The Odyssey is integrated with the Minstrel™ IV, a high resolution imaging and analysis system. The Minstrel IV's innovative dual imaging head design makes it the perfect solution for high-throughput applications. Its imaging system was derived from the highly successful Desktop Minstrel and Minstrel HT line of protein crystal imaging and analysis systems. With its dual imaging heads, the Minstrel IV can process at rates of up to one image per second. A second Minstrel IV can be integrated with each Odyssey for increased imaging throughput.

Of course, speed does not come at the expense of image quality. A 2.5X to 10X zoom coupled to a high-resolution CCD imager provides sub-micron resolution. A programmable light source optimizes conditions for each drop and plate type. This illumination source provides sufficient contrast to enable the viewer to clearly discriminate between images of clear drops, light precipitates, micro-crystals, and crystals. Lighting can be optimized per plate or drop type, providing flexibility and ensuring the best possible imaging conditions. By controlling the lighting pattern and intensity, effects such as dark field, bright field, and image flattening are possible. Other features include auto-focus, auto-zoom, and polarization. Images are saved to a database for later recall and subsequent automated analysis as desired. Barcode readers provide sample integrity and tracking. Experiments are tracked and hits can be identified for harvesting or follow up by our featured crystallization database software, CrystalTrak™

A sophisticated suite of software tools can also be added to extend the functionality of the Odyssey.

• CrystalTrak™: Oracle 9i^® based database application that allows users to intuitively add proteins, set up screens and design follow-up crystallization experiments
• CPXO: Intelligent protein crystal scoring software

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