Key features
DispensingThe system has twelve powder dispensers, with interchangeable hoppers capable of handling a broad range of powders. Additionally, it has five bulk liquid dispensers for formulations up to 1L and five syringe pumps for finer liquid handling
MixingTwo variable speed mixers allow parallel processing of formulations and help to ensure powder dissolution and solvent miscibility
Imaging enclosureThe imaging station is capable of taking high resolution pictures of formulations and is equipped with adjustable lighting panels and a rotary table, allowing users to check turbidity and dissolution.
ExtractionExtraction monitoring and flow control prevents the buildup of an explosive atmosphere in the system and shuts it down in the event of a failure. This allows it to safely handle solvents
pH stationThe pH station allows formulations to be adjusted towards a target pH through the variable addition of acids and bases
Interting stationAn inerting enclosure equipped with a Nitrogen Bubbler, allows users to effectively displace oxygen from formulations and enables the system to work with sensitive solvents
Capping/decapping stationsMultiple bottle cappers ensure the bottles are always sealed to a set torque level when transported, helping to prevent solvent spills and reducing evaporation. Each station subsequently de-caps and recaps the bottles as necessary
LED status lightingSeveral lighting circuits have been designed to enhance the user experience. This includes LED lighting showing the overall system state, the fill level of various consumable material containers, and the individual completion status of
each bottle
Bulk liquid storageAll the bulk liquids are stored on a trolley which can be pulled out and are connected with quick disconnect fittings.
Overview
This system prepares formulations based on user-defined recipes and manages multiple operations including liquid and powder dispensing, mixing, pH measurement and adjustment, imaging, and inerting.
The input station is accessible to both human operators and a mobile robot, allowing for flexible loading and unloading of consumables, while a SCARA robot arm manages the transfer of materials between stations, enabling parallel processing of formulations.
The system is controlled by custom Labman software, which is split into two applications: one for physical
operation and system management, and another for recipe creation which allows researchers to remotely create and send formulations directly to the system.