Automated workcell for walkaway operation of the Bio-Tek ELx405™ Washer and MicroFill™ Dispenser
A common requirement for assay labs involves washing microplates and dispensing liquid. The ELx405 and MicroFill from Bio-Tek offer this capability. However, when a batch of plates (30 or more) requires this operation it can pull a lot of productive time away from lab personnel. This workcell automates the sequence of washing a plate and then dispensing liquid. The entire workcell is installed in a hood for operation protection.
Using the Biosero KiNEDx laboratory robot and OVERLORD™ from PAA , the following 4 processes have been set up. The user can select any one of these tasks for walkaway automation of a batch of plate.
- Sequentially transport plates from the stacker to the washer, run a user-specified washer program for each and return the plates to the stackers.
- Sequentially transport plates from the stacker to the dispenser, run a user-specified dispenser program for each and return the plates to the stackers.
- Sequentially transport plates from the stacker to the washer. Run a user-specified washer program and then immediately move the washed plate to the dispenser and run a user-specified dispense program. Return the plate to the stackers when done.
- Transport plates from the stackers to the dispenser and run a dispense program. Return the plates to the stackers when done. Restack the plates and then run the plates through the washer. There should be a constant, user-specified (20-60) minute interval between dispense and wash steps.
Biosero provides an automated solution for the Elx-405 and Microfill that includes:
- KiNEDx arm with multiple stack storage for microplates
- Mounting hardware for the workcell to ensure reliable operation
- OVERLORD automation software
- Integration and method development according to individual requirements
Options
- Varying numbers of stacks for different capacity requirements
- Random access stacks
- Workcell can be expanded with other instruments such as Apricot liquid handlers
- Automation benches from SteelSentry™
- Automation enclosures from Bigneat for protection of contents, operator, or both
The workcell is controlled by Overlord software and can be configured with any automation-compatible microplate instruments. including liquid handlers, readers, washers, dispensers, sealers, labelers, etc.