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Published on: January 24, 2018
A simple automated solution for removing and applying sealing microplate lids.
G A Clarke1, M N Feiglin, G W King
1Department of Research Operations, Merck Research Laboratories, Rahway, NJ 07065, USA. glenn_clarke@merck.com
Journal of Biomolecular Screening
|November 2, 2001
Summary
Automated workstations can now apply and remove tight-fitting microplate lids, improving sample management for high-throughput screening. This innovation enhances automation compatibility for extended sample storage.
Area of Science:
- Automation and Robotics
- Laboratory Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Increased automation in screening systems necessitates improved sample management.
- Storing samples online requires automation-compatible microplate sealing and unsealing.
- Existing solutions are inadequate for tight-fitting lids like RoboLid.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design an automated workstation for applying and removing tight-fitting microplate lids.
- To address the limitations of current commercial solutions for microplate lid handling.
Main Methods:
- Design and development of a specialized automated workstation.
- Integration of a mechanism for secure lid application and removal.
- Testing the workstation's compatibility with tight-fitting lids.
Main Results:
- Successful design of an automated workstation capable of handling tight-fitting microplate lids.
- Demonstrated efficiency in both application and removal processes.
- The workstation is compatible with automation for extended sample storage.
Conclusions:
- The developed automated workstation effectively solves the challenge of handling tight-fitting microplate lids.
- This advancement facilitates seamless integration of sample management with automated screening.
- Enables reliable, long-term online sample storage in automated laboratory environments.
