Collection Tube Handling System
Challenges of Handling Collection Tubes
Automating collection tube workflows in high-mix, low-volume settings requires handling diverse tube types and multiple processing steps without slowing throughput. The Dorna Collection Tube Handling System uses a suction gripper for precise picking and placing, seamlessly swaps to a decapping toolhead, scans tubes with AI-powered vision, then recaps and returns them. Its modular, tool-changing design streamlines complex multi-step operations in a compact footprint. This flexible platform ensures speed, accuracy, and adaptability for varied lab automation needs.
Compact and Scalable
Designed to fit on a standard lab bench, the system combines a high-speed Dorna TA robot, two vision modules, and a decapping station in a minimal footprint. At 50 cm by 50 cm initially, the system allows for reconfiguration and expandability, depending on the process. Ideal for tight spaces, small labs, or scalable production setups.
AI Powered Picking
Equipped with two advanced AI-powered cameras, the first one is able to identify and locate tubes randomly laid out for the robot arm to pick.
Intelligent Inspection
The second camera is used to inspect the tube and scan the barcode and use AI and custom algorithms to visually inspect the tube, allowing labs to automatically collect information from collection tubes.
Robust Decapping
The system is able to properly decap and recap the collection tubes with our Decapping Station. Equipped with our modular tube gripping mechanism, it's able to hold on to the Falcon tube while the robot arm unscrews or screws on the cap. The system was designed to be applied to tubes in a variety of sizes.
Seemless Toolhead Change
Our toolhead changing system allows the robot arm to automatically change its toolhead to interact with the collection tube in different ways. This can be expanded to three or more tool heads for more complex applications.
Flexible Design
The system supports interchangeable, application-specific grippers—including mechanical fingers, suction, or soft touch grippers—designed to securely handle not only collection tubes, but other tube types, plates, pipettes, and more.
Adaptable to New Tasks
Modular hardware and a flexible software interface make it easy to reconfigure the system for different products or sorting criteria. Whether you're inspecting collection tubes today or Falcon Tubes tomorrow, the setup can evolve with your needs.
Save costs, boost productivity, and reduce errors
Contact us to learn how our automation solutions can support your high-mix, low-volume lab applications.