Team:Sherbrooke/Practices
Human Practices
Feasability
Platform
State of the art
Figure 1 - «RapidHit» platform from Hudson Robotics
As of now, there are similar options out on the market for computerized robotic platforms performing
laboratory based operations. Some manufacturers offer mainstream platforms such as the «RapidHit» from Hudson Robotics, which is shown in figure 1. This
platform is also modular, gives the opportunity to have a visual reference of the process via video camera and
has an automated restocking of micro plates feature. However, the robot is not equipped with a multiple tool
holding support that allows execution of different manipulations within the same routine. A platform of this
kind is detailed at around 50000$, which makes it less likely affordable by smaller laboratories.
Figure 2 - «epMotion 5075v» from Eppendorf
Also available is the «EpMotion 5075v», depicted in figure 2, distributed by
Eppendorf [3]. This platform allows for tool interchangeability to be used within a sequence with a tool
identifying chip system designed to secure the right choice of tools. It is also equipped with a gripper to
move around the different apparatus along the work area. Despite those assets, the platform is dependant
regarding the supplying of micro plates or pipette tips, thus needing the presence of human interaction.
Additionally, this platform is sold at a considerable 81000$, making it even less affordable for smaller
stature laboratories.
Figure 3 - OpenTrons OT.One platform
The platform presented in this article is developed in collaboration with the project OpenTrons [4],
originating from Genspace [5], a community biolab located in Brooklyn. The latter provided their beta platform
to work with and customize it to be modular, while the OpenTrons folks work on their other release, the OT.One, shown in figure 3. The beta platform is now customized
with a gripper capable of maneuvering in two planes of movement, able of carrying around micro plates and
assures the restocking of the micro plates, as well as a centrifuge completely autonomous with built-in safety
devices. The startup platform from OpenTrons is detailed at 2000$. With the modularity developed on this
platform, is it significantly cheaper and affordable to a wider potential public.