A mobile robot bridging manual and automated bioscientific workflows by applying the Swiss army knife principle

Abstract

Abstract The complexity and diversity of bioscientific research laboratories, creates significant challenges for automation. Their varying workflows, personnel, and instruments, often hinder smaller research laboratories to benefit from automated processes, as existing systems seem unsuitable due to low flexibility. Therefore, we developed a versatile robotic system designed to automate a broad range of bioscience laboratory processes. Central to our system and novel, compared to all other kinds of laboratory automation concepts, is a multifunctional end effector, inspired by the Swiss-army-knife, capable of executing multiple tasks, including an operating finger, a camera system, a gripper, and a pipette. This end effector is mounted on a 6-axis robotic arm, supported by a mobile base, enabling easy transport across different bioanalytical laboratory environments. Utilizing windows manipulating scripting routines, allows the automation of diverse software programs including software-based laboratory devices. We demonstrate the capabilities of the Laboratory Automation Robotic System (LARS) by automating the pH buffer adjustments, showcasing its potential to improve efficiency and reproducibility in bioscience research. The resulting prototype allows the integration of any laboratory instrument into a desired automation routine without limitations concerning device interfaces, while using a highly flexible multifunctional end-effector as a replacement of the human hand and eye.