Explore how FAULHABER drive solutions for laboratory automation.
Modern medicine is dependent on fast and precise diagnoses. Whether for routine tests or acute emergencies – analysis processes supply the data that are decisive for proper treatment. These diagnoses are based on the examination of blood, urine or other bodily fluids which are analyzed either in central, large-scale laboratories or directly on-site with point-of-care systems (PoC). In both scenarios, efficiency, speed and reliability are of central importance. To be able to perform the ever growing number of analyses with high precision, laboratory operators increasingly rely on automation. Whether for the stirring, tempering, dosing or transport of samples – automated systems minimize the amount of human intervention and thereby increase the productivity, repeatability and process reliability.
FAULHABER drive systems play a decisive role in many of these applications. They can be found in various areas of laboratory automation: the handling of liquids, decapping and recapping, the picking and placing of test tubes, sample transport as well as highly precise dosing through pipettors. With their wide product range comprising compact, lightweight and low-inertia drive solutions, FAULHABER offers both standard as well as customer-specific systems that meet the high requirements of modern laboratory automation.
Automated sample processing
A classic process in laboratory diagnostics begins with the preparation and sorting of samples. Modern laboratory automation systems identify the samples based on barcodes and transport them fully automatically to the appropriate analysis areas. Highly dynamic linear systems and rotating drives are necessary here for ensuring the speed and precision of these processes. Brushless DC-motors of the BX4 series from FAULHABER are ideally suited for these tasks. Thanks to their compact design, high power density and long service life, they are the ideal choice for applications in which constant movement and precise positioning are required.
Precise handling and highly dynamic analysis
In many laboratory technology applications, minute quantities of liquids must be pipetted or dosed with high accuracy. Whether in microfluidic systems, in drug development or with analysis devices – the precision of the movement is decisive for the quality of the result. Linear motors from FAULHABER come into play here: The LM series offers high dynamics and ensures precise, smooth movements. In combination with high-resolution encoders, such as the IE3, the motors can dose even extremely small volumes with high repeatability.
In many analysis processes, it is necessary to transport samples quickly or position sensors accurately. In PCR analysis, for example, where temperatures or reagent exchange must be precisely timed, extremely dynamic motors are needed. Ironless DC-micromotors from FAULHABER are perfect for this task. They deliver high torques with low weight and minimal inertia. This makes them ideal for pick-and-place systems, sample changers or automated pipetting modules.
Reliability and durability in laboratory automation
Laboratory automation systems are subjected to high loads in continuous operation. The installed components need to operate not only precisely but must also function reliably over long periods of time. FAULHABER relies on high-quality materials and precision production to ensure maximum operation reliability. Thanks to maintenance-free, brushless technology and robust ball bearings, FAULHABER drives offer a long service life – a decisive advantage for manufacturers of medical devices, who must satisfy strict regulatory requirements.
Reliable technology is essential in laboratory automation. With its modular system, FAULHABER offers versatile solutions for a wide range of laboratory applications. DC-micromotors, linear motors, high-resolution encoders and powerful gearheads can be combined individually and optimally integrated into existing systems.
