New Benchtop Robot Introduced for Flexible Automated Workflows

A new, adaptable benchtop robot increases productivity by providing flexible, high-capacity microplate storage and movement for a broad range of laboratory applications.

Thermo Fisher Scientific (Waltham, MA, USA) has now launched the Thermo Scientific VALet, a benchtop robot enabling simple, configurable laboratory automation. Adaptable to various user needs, VALet has been designed to allow multiple hotel positioning for customizable, high density microplate movement and storage, which can increase productivity in a limited work space. With four-axis plus servo-gripper, and the capacity to access both single and multiple arrayed nests, VALet is designed to be a robot highly suitable for instrument loading functions.

Built for the dynamic laboratory environment, the Thermo Scientific VALet caters to a broad range of applications, from simple instrument loading to more complex, integrated workflows. With its flexible design and on-board re-grip station, the high capacity microplate storage can be placed on the left, right, or at the front to optimize its fit in the laboratory. User-defined choices also include random or sequential storage access, giving a capacity of up to 45 or 120 microplates, respectively. VALet has been designed to enable the quick addition of connecting carousels, which can be mixed and matched to provide enhanced storage and workflow capacity tailored to specific requirements. This ability to accept multiple storage expansion options makes VALet an adaptable robot in the microplate mover sector, with considerable upgrade capability.

Integration of “Thermotor” technology allows the VALet to be controlled directly from a computer without the need for additional controllers. This feature is designed to save valuable laboratory space, to permit a quieter working environment, and to negate the need for dedicated automation engineers. In combination with the Thermo Scientific “Momentum” scheduling software, including the newly launched Momentum 3.2, the VALet bench-top robot provides users with a platform for creating, operating, and fulfilling automated workflow needs, accurately and efficiently.

Related Links:
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.
Thermo Scientific VALet