Motoman's RobotWorld ideal for laboratory automation/drug discovery

Citation

(1999), "Motoman's RobotWorld ideal for laboratory automation/drug discovery", Industrial Robot, Vol. 26 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.1999.04926fad.001

Motoman's RobotWorld ideal for laboratory automation/drug discovery

Motoman's RobotWorld ideal for laboratory automation/drug discovery

Keywords: Motoman, Robotics, Automation

RobotWorld combines the flexibility of traditional robotics with the speed of hard automation into a modular automation solution that features open architecture client/server computing for high throughput in laboratory automation applications such as drug discovery, DNA sequencing, clinical analysis, and quality control testing.

RobotWorld is a multi-function, precision processing work cell with support for up to six robotic modules (2- to 4-axis manipulation for test tube and microplate grippers, dispensing guns, and other end-of-arm tools), complete I/O subsystems, and CCD cameras for image processing, if applicable. Custom-designed modules are available, including integrated vision options for detecting reactions within individual microplate wells.

Ideal for filling microplate wells, RobotWorld can pick and place up to 10,000 parts per hour, or position more than 50,000 points per hour. Repeatability is 12 microns and accuracy is 50 microns.

With the addition of GridTracTM optical position feedback, RobotWorld can provide micron-level precision with accuracy up to 25 microns, 20 millisecond settling time, and rotation of the motor on the platen for extremely precise alignment (see Plate 1).

Plate 1GridTracTM, a new solid-state sensor introduced by Yaskawa RobotWorld, ensures with micro-level precision the position of up to six four-axis platen robot heads that can perform a wide variety of applications simultaneously

The robotic modules in RobotWorld are powered by true direct drive, two-axis linear stepping motors with rare earth magnets which attract the steel drive surface. By forcing compressed air through the motors, an air bearing is created to eliminate wear and achieve long-term accuracy and minimal maintenance.

RobotWorld offers advanced features that lead to fast application development and high throughput. Its controller is a true multi-tasking system with multiple Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) for fast processing times. This controller motion server supports Ethernet so it can be used with PCs and workstations.

RobotWorld is ideal for a wide range of other applications, including electronic and mechanical assembly, inspection, food and pharmaceutical handling, discrete processing, gauging, and packaging.

For more information on the RobotWorld solution, or other Motoman products, call 937/847 3300, write to Motoman, Inc., 805 Liberty Lane, West Carrollton, Ohio, USA 45449, or visit www.motoman.com