Implementing a digital infrastructure for the lab using a central laboratory server and the SiLA2 communication...

Area of Science:

• Laboratory Automation
• Digital Transformation
• Scientific Workflow Management

Background:

• Traditional laboratory workflows often lack integration, leading to inefficiencies.
• Digitizing lab processes is crucial for enhancing productivity and data accuracy.
• Integrating diverse lab equipment, including legacy systems, presents a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a fully integrated solution for laboratory digitization.
• To enable a digitally assisted workflow with direct worker interaction.
• To demonstrate a flexible and complete integration method for digital lab transformation.

Main Methods:

• Standardized integration of new, smart, and legacy lab devices via a hardware gateway.
• Utilizing the open-source Standardization in Lab Automation 2 standard for device communication.
• Implementing a central lab server for channeling device communication and managing a comprehensive database.

Main Results:

• A digitized infrastructure that guides laboratory workers through procedures.
• A central server acting as a gateway for process management and data recording.
• Enabled automated documentation and provided real-time assistance, such as calculations and safety information.

Conclusions:

• The presented approach offers a flexible and complete integration method for digitally assisted laboratory workflows.
• This digitization strategy has the potential to significantly increase productivity in both industrial and research settings.
• The solution is particularly beneficial for biotechnological laboratories but applicable across various scientific domains.