Brooks PreciseFlex 400: the compact collaborative robot for sample handling automation
The Brooks PreciseFlex 400 is a collaborative sample handler specifically designed to meet the automation needs of modern laboratories. Its compact design and ability to fit into tight spaces make it an ideal solution for benchtop applications where precision, flexibility and safety are essential. It has been adopted by many major companies in the life sciences automation field and is integrated into a wide range of OEM systems for sample handling.
This robot stands out for its ability to handle a wide variety of sample formats, such as SBS plates, tubes and vials. Thanks to its integrated servo gripper, it can pick up and move these samples with high precision and without risk of damage. SBS plates can be picked up in both landscape and portrait orientation, providing significant flexibility for different types of workflows. Its vertical working envelope, combined with a Z-axis reach of up to 1,160 mm, allows the PreciseFlex 400 to easily access racks, sample hotels and stacked instruments, optimising the use of workspace.
The PreciseFlex 400 offers an intuitive control interface that simplifies robot programming and control. Thanks to the web interface and TCP command server (TCS), it can be easily integrated into laboratory information management systems (LIMS). This connectivity enables smooth automation of complex processes, reducing human error and improving the reproducibility of results. In addition, the integrated manual guidance function allows operators to quickly teach the robot trajectories and tasks without requiring advanced programming skills.
Safety is a priority in the design of the PreciseFlex 400. The robot uses a collaborative architecture that reduces collision forces, enabling safe interaction with laboratory personnel. This feature is essential in environments where humans and machines work side by side. Low power consumption and an integrated controller in the robot base contribute to a small footprint and increased energy efficiency, which is particularly useful in mobile installations or laboratories with limited space.
With exceptional reliability demonstrated by an MTBF (mean time between failures) of 125,000 hours and a design life of 40,000 hours, the PreciseFlex 400 is designed for continuous and demanding use. Its ability to automate repetitive and complex tasks frees up laboratory technicians, allowing them to focus on higher value-added activities.
The PreciseFlex 400 is not limited to its compact design. It can be supplemented with accessories such as collaborative linear rails to extend its reach and integrated vision systems for more advanced object recognition. These options make it a scalable solution that can adapt to the changing needs of modern laboratories, whether in drug discovery, genomics, agriculture, biobanking or veterinary laboratories.
This collaborative manipulator is a reliable and efficient solution for increasing throughput, improving the quality of results and optimising the workspace, while ensuring maximum safety for operators.
