Automated Sample Tube Handling

AI BASED SAMPLE TUBE RECEPTION FOR LABS

Addressing the Industry’s Biggest Challenges

87%

of german laboratories don’t have enough employees to handle the daily workload of testing samples

32%

of specialists in labs will retire in the next 5 years, at the same time there is a great lack of young talents

Facing labor shortage with intelligent automation.

To force the increasing shortage of skilled workers automation is the answer to be prepared for the future. Therefore, robominds has developed an AI based solution to automate the handling of incoming sample tubes. Core of the solution is robobrain®, the smart control platform for robots providing the needed intelligence. Combined with suitable robotic components, labs are able to support laboratory staff by automating the sample tube reception process for various substances. Employees can now focus on value-added tasks.

Benefits

Reduced labor shortage

By automating the sample sorting process, labs reduce their need for manual labor, allowing employees to focus on value-added tasks

Increased Throughput

AI-based sorting handles a high volume of incoming sample tubes fast and accurate which leads to a reduced turnaround time

Flexible use

Thanks to artificial intelligence, different types and sizes of sample tubes can be handled simultaneously

Reduced error rate

AI robotics provides consistent performance, regardless of factors like employee fatigue or variability in manual handling techniques

Simply scalable

Easily customize your application depending on the volume or types of samples to be handled at any time

Seamless integration

Thanks to the open interfaces, communication with the LIS, navify® sample tracking and other systems is possible

Bring more effiency into your lab workflows

Save time, costs and staff resources with automated sample tube handling! AI robotics delivers all the components you need.

Process Intelligence
robobrain® in combination with AI-based vision skill delivers the needed process intelligence, enabling process monitoring and remote support
Vision
2D/3D camera robobrain.eye gives the robot perception for image capture of samples
Robot arm
Lightweight robotarm for automated handling of the samples
Gripper
Parallel gripper to reliably pick sample tubes
Sensor
Scan technology to read and further process information from the barcodes

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With our expertise in lab automation, we’ll find a suitable solution for your laboratory.

Case Stories

ASR 600

The robot cell for flexible sample handling

Technische Daten
Funktionsweise
KI Skills
Download Factsheet

ASR

The robot cell for flexible sample handling

Handling of up to 600 samples/h
Connectivity to the LIS
User-friendly – no robotics
know-how needed
Download Case

uMobileLAB

The mobile assistant for labs

Taking over various handling tasks
Equipping and operating diagnostic equipment
Open interfaces to many lab devices
Download Case

Industry Voices

"The biggest challenge in ‘automated lab sample reception’ is the high variability of sample types or containers approaching the lab, requiring a more intelligent approach than typical traditional ‘teach-in’ robotics can achieve. We believe in the AI empowered robominds solution to deal with the complexity at lab reception."

Dr. Oliver Gutmann
Business Product Manager
Roche Diagnostics

Technology

The robobrain® AI technology is based on the deep learning approach enabling robots to act quickly and make their own decisions. Complex AI algorithms are simply packaged in easy-to-use AI skills that can be downloaded on the robobrain® - just like an app on the smartphone. Especially for laboratories, the Sample Tube Detection Skill was developed to enable robots to detect and sort sample tubes autonomously.

Functions of the Sample Tube Detection Skill

Color Detection

Detection and sorting of tubes based on different cap colors

Collision Detection

The integrated collision analysis with the corresponding tubes ensures that no damage occurs to other tubes when samples are picked up

Simultaneous Sorting

Sorting of different types of sample tubes at the same time, regardless of the sample content (blood, urine, feces, tissue) and shape

Tube Cap Measuring

Measuring the diameter of the caps enables the gripper to be pre-positioned accordingly

Lab Automation News

Christian Fenk
Business Development
Lab Automation

Contact

Ready to automate your lab?

Laboratories offer a high potential for automation. Let us find out how you can optimize your lab and let's talk about your needs!

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FAQ

What is AI based sample reception?

AI-based sample reception in labs refers to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology to automate the process of receiving and handling sample tubes when they arrive at a laboratory. This involves utilizing AI algorithms to recognize, sort, and prioritize incoming sample tubes based on predefined criteria such as sample type, urgency, and destination.

What are common application areas for Sample Tube Handling?

Common application areas for AI-based sample tube handling include clinical diagnostics, biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, environmental testing, forensic analysis, and food and beverage testing.

What types of sample tubes and lab environments are compatible with AI based handling systems?

AI-based sample tube handling systems are compatible with a diverse range of sample tubes, including blood collection, urine collection, centrifuge, PCR, and cryogenic tubes, among others. They can operate effectively in various lab environments, such as clinical labs, research facilities, pharmaceutical development, environmental testing, forensic analysis, and food and beverage testing labs, offering adaptability and customization to meet specific needs and requirements.

How does AI-based sample tube handling improve laboratory workflow and efficiency?

AI-based sample tube handling improves laboratory workflow and efficiency by automating tasks such as sorting, labeling, and tracking, reducing manual intervention and human error. It increases speed and throughput, leading to shorter turnaround times for test results, while ensuring accuracy and consistency in sample processing. Additionally, these systems optimize resource utilization and integrate with existing laboratory equipment and information management systems, creating a seamless workflow and enhancing overall efficiency.

What are common application areas for Sample Tube Handling?

Our AI-based sample tube handling solution was designed to adapt to changes in sample types, volumes, and lab configurations. Machine learning algorithms and flexible programming capabilities allow the system to learn and adjust to new sample types and volumes over time.