5 Examples of Lab Automation

Lab Automation
1. Nov 2023
5 Examples of Lab Automation

Due to the steady distribution of lab automation technologies, laboratory work has evolved drastically over the past few years. By optimizing traditional manual processes, lab automation ensures efficiency and precision.

In this post, we will look at 5 examples of how lab automation solutions can be used and how these solutions increase efficiency and quality of results.

The exemplary processes in a laboratory that we are looking at are:

  • Pipetting
  • Mixing & Dispensing
  • Solid Dosing
  • Measuring
  • Data management

1. Automated Pipetting

Traditional pipetting relied heavily on the skill of the lab technician. Repetitive pipetting not only risked inconsistencies due to human fatigue but also posed ergonomic challenges to technicians.

Automated pipetting systems have since changed this landscape. They can seamlessly handle microliter to milliliter volumes with consistent accuracy. Besides improving precision, these systems can manage repetitive and high-throughput tasks. It mitigates the risk of repetitive strain injuries and ensures that sample transfers remain consistent, regardless of the volume or frequency.

2. Automated Mixing & Dispensing

Automated Mixing & Dispensing play pivotal roles in modern laboratory operations. Automated Mixing eliminates the inconsistencies that manual methods can introduce, ensuring the uniformity of mixed samples critical for reliable results.

Utilizing devices like magnetic stirrers, shakers, and vortex mixers, labs can fine-tune mixing conditions to suit various sample types and volumes.

Automated Dispensing addresses the need for precision in lab protocols, offering calibrated robotic systems capable of delivering precise volumes, from nanoliters to liters. By automating tasks like filling multi-well plates and dispensing reagents, these systems guarantee accuracy and significantly expedite the dispensing process.

3. Solid Dosing

Automated solid dosing addresses the challenges posed by manual methods and ensuring the accuracy and consistency required for reliable results.

By employing advanced equipment such as automated dispensers, robotic powder handlers, and gravimetric feeders, laboratories can precisely and efficiently handle a wide range of solid materials, from powders and crystalline substances to chemicals.

These automated systems eliminate the inaccuracies and variations associated with manual dosing. They provide calibrated and programmable options for dispensing solid materials in quantities as small as nanograms to larger volumes, all while improving the efficiency of the dosing process.

laboratory automation solution from ESSERT Robotics

4. Automated Measuring

From determining pH levels to assessing absorbance spectra, measurements in labs dictate the direction and validity of experiments. Traditional methods often involved manual readings, which could vary based on the technician’s experience and perception.

Modern automated measurement tools leave little room for ambiguity. Incorporating precision sensors and illustrating complex data on digital displays, these devices provide clear, consistent readings. Many even come with integrated software for real-time data analysis, making it simpler to track and interpret results.

5. Data management with lab automation software

Managing data, previously done with physical logs or basic digital spreadsheets, was a significant task. Collecting, analyzing, and storing this data demanded attention and posed challenges in terms of data retrieval and consistency.

Modern lab automation software has transformed this facet of lab work. Such platforms offer centralized data management, real-time equipment monitoring, and sophisticated data analytics tools. With user-friendly interfaces and secure data backup options, they ensure that labs can effortlessly manage vast datasets while maintaining data integrity.

Automation Solutions for manual laboratory processes

We at ESSERT Robotics emphasize precision-driven sample handling. Our innovative modular automation systems are designed for flexibility, ensuring that labs can adapt to evolving requirements without compromise.

With the ADVANCED Robotic Workstation Lab Solution or Pipetting workstation, processes like the exemplary ones in this blog post can be automated for enhanced efficiency and quality in your laboratory setting.

Our pipetting solution seamlessly integrates with a class II microbiological safety cabinet, ensuring product and personal protection in line with DIN EN 12469 standards. Moreover, the inclusion of an ultra-low temperature freezer enables the storage of frozen lab samples.

Our Lab Solution fully automates the measuring and dispensing process. By minimizing manual intervention, it promises consistent results and streamlined lab operations. Finally, our software solution ESSERT OS is built for intuitive use. With its user-friendly interface, the ESSERT OS epitomizes the efficiency and accessibility of modern lab automation.

Read more about automation and laboratories:

What is lab automation?
Laboratory robotics simply explained
Lab automation software
Process automation simply explained
Pharmaceutical automation: Innovations driving an industry