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ECL`

ExperimentImageSample

ExperimentImageSample[Objects]Protocol

creates a Protocol to photograph the provided sample or container Objects.

    
Imaging of samples in their containers allows experimenters to visually verify that their samples' appearance matches expectations. In cases where an experimental outcome does not match expectations, sample images can be useful in identifying precipitate formation, color change, and other visual cues that provide insight into sample integrity. Samples in multi-well plates can be imaged from above, with the option for added illumination from the top and/or bottom. Samples in single-well vessels such as tubes and bottles can be imaged from either the top or the side, with the option for added illumination from the top, bottom, or side. Unless otherwise specified, all user-owned samples are imaged automatically at the end of each protocol in which they are used.
    

Experimental Principles

    Figure 1.1: Procedural overview of an ImageSample experiment with a vessel. Step 1: Specified lighting is activated. Step 2: Vessels containing the samples are placed on the imaging device and positioned for imaging. Step 3: Camera positioning and focal length are adjusted (if necessary). Step 4: Sample images are captured. Step 5: Analyze captured images.
    Figure 1.2: Procedural overview of an ImageSample experiment with a plate. Step 1: Specified lighting is activated. Step 2: Plates containing the samples are placed on the imaging device and positioned for imaging. Step 3: Camera positioning and focal length are adjusted (if necessary). Step 4: Sample images are captured. Step 5: Analyze captured images.

Instrumentation

    Emerald DSLR Camera Imaging Station

    Figure 2.1.1: The ECL sample imager is a custom apparatus for documentation of the appearance of samples stored in single-well containers (e.g. tubes, bottles, etc). It is equipped with two cameras: a 24 MP digital single-lens reflex side imaging camera with focal length automatically set between 18 and 55 mm to achieve optimal framing depending on the size of the container being imaged, and a 12 MP overhead camera with a fixed focal length of 12 mm. Samples can be illuminated with any combination of Ambient light (always on), top LED light, and bottom or side LED light during imaging.

    Vision M3 Sample Imager

    Figure 2.2.1: The Vision M3 is an automated-stage imaging apparatus for close-up inspection of very small features, ideal for imaging of individual wells in a multi-well plate. It is equipped with a single top-mounted 5 MP digital microscope camera capable of imaging each individual well in a plate in an automated fashion. Samples can be illuminated with any combination of Ambient light (always on), top LED light, and bottom LED light during imaging.

Experiment Options

    Protocol

    Instrument

    The instrument used to perform the imaging operation.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves based on the Type and/or specific model parameters of the sample's container.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, PlateImager], Model[Instrument, SampleImager], Object[Instrument, PlateImager], or Object[Instrument, SampleImager]
    Programmatic Pattern: ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, PlateImager], Model[Instrument, SampleImager], Object[Instrument, PlateImager], Object[Instrument, SampleImager]}] | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    AlternateInstruments

    The other devices that satisfy the input specification. When Null, no devices beyond the Instrument will be considered for use.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: If the Instrument option is specified as an instrument model, automatically set to all other instrument models that support all parameters of the sample's container.
    Pattern Description: List of one or more an object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, PlateImager] or Model[Instrument, SampleImager] entries or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ({ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, PlateImager], Model[Instrument, SampleImager]}]..} | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    ImageContainer

    Indicates whether images will be taken of the whole container as opposed to the samples contained within.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves based on the Type and/or specific model parameters of the sample's container.
    Pattern Description: True or False.
    Programmatic Pattern: BooleanP | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    ImagingDirection

    The orientation of the camera with respect to the container being imaged, where All implies both top and side images will be captured.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves based on the Type and/or specific model parameters of the sample's container.
    Pattern Description: List of one or more Side or Top entries or {Side, Top} or All.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ImagingDirectionP | All) | {ImagingDirectionP..}) | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    IlluminationDirection

    The source(s) of illumination that will be used for imaging, where All implies all available light sources will be active simultaneously.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves based on the Type and/or specific model parameters of the sample's container.
    Pattern Description: List of one or more Top, Bottom, Side, or Ambient entries or {Top, Bottom, Side, Ambient} or All.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((IlluminationDirectionP | All) | {IlluminationDirectionP..}) | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    General

    Preparation

    Indicates if this unit operation is carried out primarily robotically or manually. Manual unit operations are executed by a laboratory operator and robotic unit operations are executed by a liquid handling work cell.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: Manual or Robotic.
    Programmatic Pattern: PreparationMethodP | Automatic

    Model Input

    PreparedModelContainer

    Indicates the container in which a Model[Sample] specified as input to the experiment function will be prepared.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: If PreparedModelAmount is set to All and when the input model has a product associated with both Amount and DefaultContainerModel populated, automatically set to the DefaultContainerModel value in the product. Otherwise set to Model[Container, Vessel, "2mL Tube"].
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container] or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[Model[Container]] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    PreparedModelAmount

    Indicates the amount of a Model[Sample] specified as input to the experiment function that will be prepared in the PreparedModelContainer. When set to All and the input model sample is not preparable, the entire amount of the input model sample that comes from one of the Products is prepared. The selected product must have both Amount and DefaultContainerModel populated, and it must not be a KitProduct. When set to All and the input model is preparable such as water, 1 Milliliter of the input model sample is prepared.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set to 1 Milliliter.
    Pattern Description: All or Count or Count or Mass or Volume or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((RangeP[1*Microliter, 20*Liter] | RangeP[1*Milligram, 20*Kilogram] | GreaterP[0*Unit, 1*Unit] | GreaterP[0., 1.] | All) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    Post Experiment

    SamplesInStorageCondition

    The non-default conditions under which the SamplesIn of this experiment should be stored after the protocol is completed. If left unset, SamplesIn will be stored according to their current StorageCondition.
    Default Value: Null
    Pattern Description: {AmbientStorage, EnclosedAmbientStorage, Refrigerator, Freezer, DeepFreezer, CryogenicStorage, YeastIncubation, YeastShakingIncubation, BacterialIncubation, BacterialShakingIncubation, MammalianIncubation, ViralIncubation, CrystalIncubation, AcceleratedTesting, IntermediateTesting, LongTermTesting, UVVisLightTesting} or Disposal or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (Alternatives[SampleStorageTypeP | Disposal]) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

Sample Prep Options

    Sample Preparation

    PreparatoryUnitOperations

    Specifies a sequence of transferring, aliquoting, consolidating, or mixing of new or existing samples before the main experiment. These prepared samples can be used in the main experiment by referencing their defined name. For more information, please reference the documentation for ExperimentSamplePreparation.
    Default Value: Null
    Pattern Description: List of one or more unit Operation ManualSamplePreparation or RoboticSamplePreparation or unit Operation must match SamplePreparationP entries or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: {((ManualSamplePreparationMethodP | RoboticSamplePreparationMethodP) | SamplePreparationP)..} | Null

    Preparatory Incubation

    Incubate

    Indicates if the SamplesIn should be incubated at a fixed temperature prior to starting the experiment or any aliquoting. Sample Preparation occurs in the order of Incubation, Centrifugation, Filtration, and then Aliquoting (if specified).
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolves to True if any of the corresponding Incubation options are set. Otherwise, resolves to False.
    Pattern Description: True or False.
    Programmatic Pattern: BooleanP | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    IncubationTemperature

    Temperature at which the SamplesIn should be incubated for the duration of the IncubationTime prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: Ambient or greater than or equal to -20 degrees Celsius and less than or equal to 500 degrees Celsius or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((Ambient | RangeP[$MinIncubationTemperature, $MaxIncubationTemperature]) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    IncubationTime

    Duration for which SamplesIn should be incubated at the IncubationTemperature, prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 1 minute and less than or equal to 72 hours or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (RangeP[1*Minute, $MaxExperimentTime] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    Mix

    Indicates if this sample should be mixed while incubated, prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to True if any Mix related options are set. Otherwise, resolves to False.
    Pattern Description: True or False or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (BooleanP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    MixType

    Indicates the style of motion used to mix the sample, prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves based on the container of the sample and the Mix option.
    Pattern Description: Roll, Vortex, Sonicate, Pipette, Invert, Stir, Shake, Homogenize, Swirl, Disrupt, or Nutate or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (MixTypeP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    MixUntilDissolved

    Indicates if the mix should be continued up to the MaxIncubationTime or MaxNumberOfMixes (chosen according to the mix Type), in an attempt dissolve any solute. Any mixing/incubation will occur prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to True if MaxIncubationTime or MaxNumberOfMixes is set.
    Pattern Description: True or False or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (BooleanP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    MaxIncubationTime

    Maximum duration of time for which the samples will be mixed while incubated in an attempt to dissolve any solute, if the MixUntilDissolved option is chosen. This occurs prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves based on MixType, MixUntilDissolved, and the container of the given sample.
    Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 1 minute and less than or equal to 72 hours or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (RangeP[1*Minute, $MaxExperimentTime] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    IncubationInstrument

    The instrument used to perform the Mix and/or Incubation, prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves based on the options Mix, Temperature, MixType and container of the sample.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, Roller], Model[Instrument, OverheadStirrer], Model[Instrument, Vortex], Model[Instrument, Shaker], Model[Instrument, BottleRoller], Model[Instrument, Roller], Model[Instrument, Sonicator], Model[Instrument, HeatBlock], Model[Instrument, Homogenizer], Model[Instrument, Disruptor], Model[Instrument, Nutator], Model[Instrument, Thermocycler], Model[Instrument, EnvironmentalChamber], Model[Instrument, Pipette], Object[Instrument, Roller], Object[Instrument, OverheadStirrer], Object[Instrument, Vortex], Object[Instrument, Shaker], Object[Instrument, BottleRoller], Object[Instrument, Roller], Object[Instrument, Sonicator], Object[Instrument, HeatBlock], Object[Instrument, Homogenizer], Object[Instrument, Disruptor], Object[Instrument, Nutator], Object[Instrument, Thermocycler], Object[Instrument, EnvironmentalChamber], or Object[Instrument, Pipette] or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[Join[MixInstrumentModels, MixInstrumentObjects]] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    AnnealingTime

    Minimum duration for which the SamplesIn should remain in the incubator allowing the system to settle to room temperature after the IncubationTime has passed but prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 minutes and less than or equal to 72 hours or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (RangeP[0*Minute, $MaxExperimentTime] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    IncubateAliquotContainer

    The desired type of container that should be used to prepare and house the incubation samples which should be used in lieu of the SamplesIn for the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container] or {Index, Container} or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ObjectP[Model[Container]] | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1] | (Automatic | Null), (ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | Automatic}) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    IncubateAliquotDestinationWell

    The desired position in the corresponding IncubateAliquotContainer in which the aliquot samples will be placed.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to A1 in containers with only one position. For plates, fills wells in the order provided by the function AllWells.
    Pattern Description: Any well from A1 to H12 or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (WellPositionP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    IncubateAliquot

    The amount of each sample that should be transferred from the SamplesIn into the IncubateAliquotContainer when performing an aliquot before incubation.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set as the smaller between the current sample volume and the maximum volume of the destination container.
    Pattern Description: All or greater than or equal to 1 microliter and less than or equal to 20 liters or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((RangeP[1*Microliter, 20*Liter] | All) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    Preparatory Centrifugation

    Centrifuge

    Indicates if the SamplesIn should be centrifuged prior to starting the experiment or any aliquoting. Sample Preparation occurs in the order of Incubation, Centrifugation, Filtration, and then Aliquoting (if specified).
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolves to True if any of the corresponding Centrifuge options are set. Otherwise, resolves to False.
    Pattern Description: True or False.
    Programmatic Pattern: BooleanP | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    CentrifugeInstrument

    The centrifuge that will be used to spin the provided samples prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, Centrifuge] or Object[Instrument, Centrifuge] or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, Centrifuge], Object[Instrument, Centrifuge]}] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    CentrifugeIntensity

    The rotational speed or the force that will be applied to the samples by centrifugation prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: Greater than 0 revolutions per minute or greater than 0 standard accelerations due to gravity on the surface of the earth or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((GreaterP[0*RPM] | GreaterP[0*GravitationalAcceleration]) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    CentrifugeTime

    The amount of time for which the SamplesIn should be centrifuged prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: Greater than 0 minutes or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (GreaterP[0*Minute] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    CentrifugeTemperature

    The temperature at which the centrifuge chamber should be held while the samples are being centrifuged prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: Ambient or greater than or equal to -10 degrees Celsius and less than or equal to 40 degrees Celsius or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((Ambient | RangeP[-10*Celsius, 40*Celsius]) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    CentrifugeAliquotContainer

    The desired type of container that should be used to prepare and house the centrifuge samples which should be used in lieu of the SamplesIn for the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container] or {Index, Container} or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ObjectP[Model[Container]] | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1] | (Automatic | Null), (ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | Automatic}) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    CentrifugeAliquotDestinationWell

    The desired position in the corresponding AliquotContainer in which the aliquot samples will be placed.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to A1 in containers with only one position. For plates, fills wells in the order provided by the function AllWells.
    Pattern Description: Any well from A1 to H12 or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (WellPositionP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    CentrifugeAliquot

    The amount of each sample that should be transferred from the SamplesIn into the CentrifugeAliquotContainer when performing an aliquot before centrifugation.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set as the smaller between the current sample volume and the maximum volume of the destination container.
    Pattern Description: All or greater than or equal to 1 microliter and less than or equal to 20 liters or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((RangeP[1*Microliter, 20*Liter] | All) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    Preparatory Filtering

    Filtration

    Indicates if the SamplesIn should be filter prior to starting the experiment or any aliquoting. Sample Preparation occurs in the order of Incubation, Centrifugation, Filtration, and then Aliquoting (if specified).
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolves to True if any of the corresponding Filter options are set. Otherwise, resolves to False.
    Pattern Description: True or False.
    Programmatic Pattern: BooleanP | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FiltrationType

    The type of filtration method that should be used to perform the filtration.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Will automatically resolve to a filtration type appropriate for the volume of sample being filtered.
    Pattern Description: PeristalticPump, Centrifuge, Vacuum, Syringe, or AirPressure or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (FiltrationTypeP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterInstrument

    The instrument that should be used to perform the filtration.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Will automatically resolved to an instrument appropriate for the filtration type.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, FilterBlock], Object[Instrument, FilterBlock], Model[Instrument, PeristalticPump], Object[Instrument, PeristalticPump], Model[Instrument, VacuumPump], Object[Instrument, VacuumPump], Model[Instrument, Centrifuge], Object[Instrument, Centrifuge], Model[Instrument, SyringePump], or Object[Instrument, SyringePump] or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, FilterBlock], Object[Instrument, FilterBlock], Model[Instrument, PeristalticPump], Object[Instrument, PeristalticPump], Model[Instrument, VacuumPump], Object[Instrument, VacuumPump], Model[Instrument, Centrifuge], Object[Instrument, Centrifuge], Model[Instrument, SyringePump], Object[Instrument, SyringePump]}] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    Filter

    The filter that should be used to remove impurities from the SamplesIn prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Will automatically resolve to a filter appropriate for the filtration type and instrument.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container, Plate, Filter], Model[Container, Vessel, Filter], or Model[Item, Filter] or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[{Model[Container, Plate, Filter], Model[Container, Vessel, Filter], Model[Item, Filter]}] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterMaterial

    The membrane material of the filter that should be used to remove impurities from the SamplesIn prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolves to an appropriate filter material for the given sample is Filtration is set to True.
    Pattern Description: Cellulose, Cotton, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PTFE, Nylon, PES, PLUS, PVDF, GlassFiber, GHP, UHMWPE, EPDM, DuraporePVDF, GxF, ZebaDesaltingResin, NickelResin, AgaroseResin, CobaltResin, Silica, HLB, or AnoporeAlumina or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (FilterMembraneMaterialP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    PrefilterMaterial

    The material from which the prefilter filtration membrane should be made of to remove impurities from the SamplesIn prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: By default, no prefiltration is performed on samples, even when Filter->True.
    Pattern Description: Cellulose, Cotton, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PTFE, Nylon, PES, PLUS, PVDF, GlassFiber, GHP, UHMWPE, EPDM, DuraporePVDF, GxF, ZebaDesaltingResin, NickelResin, AgaroseResin, CobaltResin, Silica, HLB, or AnoporeAlumina or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (FilterMembraneMaterialP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterPoreSize

    The pore size of the filter that should be used when removing impurities from the SamplesIn prior to starting the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolves to an appropriate filter pore size for the given sample is Filtration is set to True.
    Pattern Description: 0.008 micrometers, 0.02 micrometers, 0.1 micrometers, 0.2 micrometers, 0.22 micrometers, 0.45 micrometers, 1. micrometer, 1.1 micrometers, 2.5 micrometers, 6. micrometers, 20. micrometers, 30. micrometers, or 100. micrometers or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (FilterSizeP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    PrefilterPoreSize

    The pore size of the filter; all particles larger than this should be removed during the filtration.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: By default, no prefiltration is performed on samples, even when Filter->True.
    Pattern Description: 0.008 micrometers, 0.02 micrometers, 0.1 micrometers, 0.2 micrometers, 0.22 micrometers, 0.45 micrometers, 1. micrometer, 1.1 micrometers, 2.5 micrometers, 6. micrometers, 20. micrometers, 30. micrometers, or 100. micrometers or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (FilterSizeP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterSyringe

    The syringe used to force that sample through a filter.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolves to an syringe appropriate to the volume of sample being filtered, if Filtration is set to True.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container, Syringe] or Object[Container, Syringe] or a prepared sample or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ObjectP[{Model[Container, Syringe], Object[Container, Syringe]}] | _String) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterHousing

    The filter housing that should be used to hold the filter membrane when filtration is performed using a standalone filter membrane.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolve to an housing capable of holding the size of the membrane being used, if filter with Membrane FilterType is being used and Filtration is set to True.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, FilterHousing], Object[Instrument, FilterHousing], Model[Instrument, FilterBlock], or Object[Instrument, FilterBlock] or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, FilterHousing], Object[Instrument, FilterHousing], Model[Instrument, FilterBlock], Object[Instrument, FilterBlock]}] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterIntensity

    The rotational speed or force at which the samples will be centrifuged during filtration.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Will automatically resolve to 2000 GravitationalAcceleration if FiltrationType is Centrifuge and Filtration is True.
    Pattern Description: Greater than 0 revolutions per minute or greater than 0 standard accelerations due to gravity on the surface of the earth or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((GreaterP[0*RPM] | GreaterP[0*GravitationalAcceleration]) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterTime

    The amount of time for which the samples will be centrifuged during filtration.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Will automatically resolve to 5 Minute if FiltrationType is Centrifuge and Filtration is True.
    Pattern Description: Greater than 0 minutes or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (GreaterP[0*Minute] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterTemperature

    The temperature at which the centrifuge chamber will be held while the samples are being centrifuged during filtration.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Will automatically resolve to 22 Celsius if FiltrationType is Centrifuge and Filtration is True.
    Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 4 degrees Celsius or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((Alternatives[GreaterEqualP[4*Celsius]]) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterContainerOut

    The desired container filtered samples should be produced in or transferred into by the end of filtration, with indices indicating grouping of samples in the same plates, if desired.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set as the PreferredContainer for the Volume of the sample. For plates, attempts to fill all wells of a single plate with the same model before using another one.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container] or Object[Container] or a prepared sample or {Index, Container} or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (((ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1] | Automatic, (ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | Automatic}) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterAliquotDestinationWell

    The desired position in the corresponding AliquotContainer in which the aliquot samples will be placed.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to A1 in containers with only one position. For plates, fills wells in the order provided by the function AllWells.
    Pattern Description: Any well from A1 to H12 or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (WellPositionP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterAliquotContainer

    The desired type of container that should be used to prepare and house the filter samples which should be used in lieu of the SamplesIn for the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container] or {Index, Container} or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ObjectP[Model[Container]] | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1] | (Automatic | Null), (ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | Automatic}) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterAliquot

    The amount of each sample that should be transferred from the SamplesIn into the FilterAliquotContainer when performing an aliquot before filtration.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set as the smaller between the current sample volume and the maximum volume of the destination container.
    Pattern Description: All or greater than or equal to 1 microliter and less than or equal to 20 liters or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((RangeP[1*Microliter, 20*Liter] | All) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    FilterSterile

    Indicates if the filtration of the samples should be done in a sterile environment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Resolve to False if Filtration is indicated. If sterile filtration is desired, this option must manually be set to True.
    Pattern Description: True or False or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (BooleanP | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    Aliquoting

    Aliquot

    Indicates if aliquots should be taken from the SamplesIn and transferred into new AliquotSamples used in lieu of the SamplesIn for the experiment. Note that if NumberOfReplicates is specified this indicates that the input samples will also be aliquoted that number of times. Note that Aliquoting (if specified) occurs after any Sample Preparation (if specified).
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: True or False.
    Programmatic Pattern: BooleanP | Automatic
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    AliquotAmount

    The amount of a sample that should be transferred from the input samples into aliquots.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set as the smaller between the current sample volume and the maximum volume of the destination container if a liquid, or the current Mass or Count if a solid or counted item, respectively.
    Pattern Description: All or Count or Count or Mass or Volume or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((RangeP[1*Microliter, 20*Liter] | RangeP[1*Milligram, 20*Kilogram] | GreaterP[0*Unit, 1*Unit] | GreaterP[0., 1.] | All) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    TargetConcentration

    The desired final concentration of analyte in the AliquotSamples after dilution of aliquots of SamplesIn with the ConcentratedBuffer and BufferDiluent which should be used in lieu of the SamplesIn for the experiment.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically calculated based on aliquot and buffer volumes.
    Pattern Description: Greater than 0 molar or greater than 0 grams per liter or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((GreaterP[0*Molar] | GreaterP[0*(Gram/Liter)]) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    TargetConcentrationAnalyte

    The substance whose final concentration is attained with the TargetConcentration option.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set to the first value in the Analytes field of the input sample, or, if not populated, to the first analyte in the Composition field of the input sample, or if none exist, the first identity model of any kind in the Composition field.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Molecule], Model[Molecule, cDNA], Model[Molecule, Oligomer], Model[Molecule, Transcript], Model[Molecule, Protein], Model[Molecule, Protein, Antibody], Model[Molecule, Carbohydrate], Model[Molecule, Polymer], Model[Resin], Model[Resin, SolidPhaseSupport], Model[Lysate], Model[ProprietaryFormulation], Model[Virus], Model[Cell], Model[Cell, Mammalian], Model[Cell, Bacteria], Model[Cell, Yeast], Model[Tissue], Model[Material], or Model[Species] or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[IdentityModelTypes] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    AssayVolume

    The desired total volume of the aliquoted sample plus dilution buffer.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically determined based on Volume and TargetConcentration option values.
    Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 1 microliter and less than or equal to 20 liters or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (RangeP[1*Microliter, 20*Liter] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    ConcentratedBuffer

    The concentrated buffer which should be diluted by the BufferDilutionFactor in the final solution (i.e., the combination of the sample, ConcentratedBuffer, and BufferDiluent). The ConcentratedBuffer and BufferDiluent will be combined and then mixed with the sample, where the combined volume of these buffers is the difference between the AliquotAmount and the total AssayVolume.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Sample] or Object[Sample] or a prepared sample or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ObjectP[{Model[Sample], Object[Sample]}] | _String) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    BufferDilutionFactor

    The dilution factor by which the concentrated buffer should be diluted in the final solution (i.e., the combination of the sample, ConcentratedBuffer, and BufferDiluent). The ConcentratedBuffer and BufferDiluent will be combined and then mixed with the sample, where the combined volume of these buffers is the difference between the AliquotAmount and the total AssayVolume.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: If ConcentratedBuffer is specified, automatically set to the ConcentratedBufferDilutionFactor of that sample; otherwise, set to Null.
    Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 1 or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (GreaterEqualP[1] | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    BufferDiluent

    The buffer used to dilute the aliquot sample such that ConcentratedBuffer is diluted by BufferDilutionFactor in the final solution. The ConcentratedBuffer and BufferDiluent will be combined and then mixed with the sample, where the combined volume of these buffers is the difference between the AliquotAmount and the total AssayVolume.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to Model[Sample, "Milli-Q water"] if ConcentratedBuffer is specified; otherwise, resolves to Null.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Sample] or Object[Sample] or a prepared sample or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ObjectP[{Model[Sample], Object[Sample]}] | _String) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    AssayBuffer

    The buffer that should be added to any aliquots requiring dilution, where the volume of this buffer added is the difference between the AliquotAmount and the total AssayVolume.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to Model[Sample, "Milli-Q water"] if ConcentratedBuffer is not specified; otherwise, resolves to Null.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Sample] or Object[Sample] or a prepared sample or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((ObjectP[{Model[Sample], Object[Sample]}] | _String) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    AliquotSampleStorageCondition

    The non-default conditions under which any aliquot samples generated by this experiment should be stored after the protocol is completed.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: {AmbientStorage, EnclosedAmbientStorage, Refrigerator, Freezer, DeepFreezer, CryogenicStorage, YeastIncubation, YeastShakingIncubation, BacterialIncubation, BacterialShakingIncubation, MammalianIncubation, ViralIncubation, CrystalIncubation, AcceleratedTesting, IntermediateTesting, LongTermTesting, UVVisLightTesting} or Disposal or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((SampleStorageTypeP | Disposal) | Automatic) | Null
    Index Matches to: experiment samples

    DestinationWell

    The desired position in the corresponding AliquotContainer in which the aliquot samples will be placed.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically resolves to A1 in containers with only one position. For plates, fills wells in the order provided by the function AllWells.
    Pattern Description: Any well from A1 to H12 or list of one or more any well from A1 to H12 or any well from A1 to H12 entries or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: ((WellPositionP | {((Automatic | Null) | WellPositionP)..}) | Automatic) | Null

    AliquotContainer

    The desired type of container that should be used to prepare and house the aliquot samples, with indices indicating grouping of samples in the same plates, if desired. This option will resolve to be the length of the SamplesIn * NumberOfReplicates.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatically set as the PreferredContainer for the AssayVolume of the sample. For plates, attempts to fill all wells of a single plate with the same model before aliquoting into the next.
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container] or Object[Container] or a prepared sample or Automatic or Null or {Index, Container} or list of one or more an object of type or subtype Model[Container] or Object[Container] or a prepared sample or Automatic or Null entries or list of one or more Automatic or Null or {Index, Container} entries.
    Programmatic Pattern: (((ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | (Automatic | Null) | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1] | (Automatic | Null), (ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | (Automatic | Null)} | {((ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | (Automatic | Null))..} | {({GreaterEqualP[1, 1] | (Automatic | Null), (ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String) | (Automatic | Null)} | (Automatic | Null))..}) | Automatic) | Null

    AliquotPreparation

    Indicates the desired scale at which liquid handling used to generate aliquots will occur.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Default Calculation: Automatic resolution will occur based on manipulation volumes and container types.
    Pattern Description: Manual or Robotic or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (PreparationMethodP | Automatic) | Null

    ConsolidateAliquots

    Indicates if identical aliquots should be prepared in the same container/position.
    Default Value: Automatic
    Pattern Description: True or False or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (BooleanP | Automatic) | Null

Protocol Options

    Organizational Information

    Template

    A template protocol whose methodology should be reproduced in running this experiment. Option values will be inherited from the template protocol, but can be individually overridden by directly specifying values for those options to this Experiment function.
    Default Value: Null
    Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Object[Protocol] or an object of type or subtype of Object[Protocol] with UnresolvedOptions, ResolvedOptions specified or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[Object[Protocol]] | FieldReferenceP[Object[Protocol], {UnresolvedOptions, ResolvedOptions}]) | Null

    Name

    A object name which should be used to refer to the output object in lieu of an automatically generated ID number.
    Default Value: Null
    Pattern Description: A string or Null.
    Programmatic Pattern: _String | Null

    Post Experiment

    MeasureWeight

    Indicates if any solid samples that are modified in the course of the experiment should have their weights measured and updated after running the experiment.
    Default Value: False
    Pattern Description: True or False.
    Programmatic Pattern: BooleanP

    MeasureVolume

    Indicates if any liquid samples that are modified in the course of the experiment should have their volumes measured and updated after running the experiment.
    Default Value: False
    Pattern Description: True or False.
    Programmatic Pattern: BooleanP

Example Calls

    Basics

    Image all samples in a plate:
    Image samples in several bottles:

    Imaging Direction

    Select the direction from which all samples should be imaged:
    Select a set of simultaneous imaging directions from which all samples should be imaged:
    Select different imaging directions for multiple input samples, including simultaneous imaging from multiple directions:
    Plate rackable tubes (e.g. 2 mL tubes) are placed in a rack and imaged from above on a plate imager by default, but can be imaged from the side on a sample imager if desired:

    Illumination Direction

    Select the direction from which all samples should be illuminated:
    Select a set of simultaneous illumination directions from which all samples should be illuminated:
    Select different illumination directions for multiple input samples, including simultaneous illumination from multiple directions for one of the input samples:
    Select the illumination direction that should be used for all samples in a plate:

Warnings and Errors

    Messages  (18)

    AliquotRequired  (2)

    Any samples requiring aliquoting are excluded without additional error if in Engine and ParentProtocol is non-Null:

    If plate imager is specified for imaging of tubes that are not plate imager compatible, samples are aliquoted into compatible tubes if possible and an appropriate warning is displayed:

    DiscardedSamples  (1)

    If samples are discarded, an error is displayed:

    DuplicateName  (1)

    If the specified Name already exists in the ECL database, an error is displayed:

    HazardousSamples  (3)

    If all samples are hazardous and it's on Engine, return an empty list without error message:

    If some samples are hazardous to be imaged, an error message is displayed:

    Inputs containing mixed-up safe and hazardous samples and ImagingDirection can be successfully resolved:

    IlluminationOptionMismatch  (1)

    If Instrument and IlluminationDirection are incompatible, an error is displayed:

    ImageSampleInvalidAlternateInstruments  (1)

    Instrument model already specified as Instrument option cannot be included in AlternateInstruments option:

    ImagingIncompatibleContainer  (1)

    Aliquoting is requested for samples in containers whose models are marked Unimageable->True:

    ObjectDoesNotExist  (6)

    Do NOT throw a message if we have a simulated container but a simulation is specified that indicates that it is simulated:

    Do NOT throw a message if we have a simulated sample but a simulation is specified that indicates that it is simulated:

    Throw a message if we have a container that does not exist (ID form):

    Throw a message if we have a container that does not exist (name form):

    Throw a message if we have a sample that does not exist (ID form):

    Throw a message if we have a sample that does not exist (name form):

    OptionMismatch  (1)

    If Instrument and ImagingDirection are incompatible, an error is displayed:

    PreferredIlluminationIncompatible  (1)

    If a sample container's PreferredIllumination field cannot be satisfied given other experimental constraints, a warning message is displayed:

Possible Issues

    Open Containers

    Top imaging requires removal of container lids.
Last modified on Fri 15 Aug 2025 15:49:54