Efficiency and accuracy have always been at the forefront in laboratories, but with the advancement of technology, these areas can now be managed much faster and more effectively. So, how are collaborative robots (cobots) transforming laboratory processes? Let’s examine this question in more detail.
What is a Cobot and Why is it Used in Laboratories?
A cobot, or “collaborative robot,” is a type of robot that can work safely alongside humans. Its biggest difference from traditional industrial robots is its ability to collaborate between humans and machines, meaning both parties can work together efficiently. In laboratories, cobots are particularly useful for repetitive and precise tasks. Thanks to their flexible structure and ease of programming, they automate many laboratory processes, supporting the workforce. Let’s take a look at the main reasons why cobots are used in laboratory environments.
How Do Cobots Support the Workforce?
Laboratories are mostly filled with repetitive, time-consuming, and high-precision tasks. Cobots take over tasks such as pipetting, sample preparation, and analysis, allowing human employees to focus on more strategic and creative work. This not only increases efficiency but also enables the workforce to be directed towards more valuable tasks. As a result, employees waste less time, the possibility of making mistakes decreases, and work progresses faster.
How Does Cobot Use Reduce Error Rates?
Manual processes in laboratories are inevitably prone to human errors. However, cobots significantly reduce error rates thanks to their high precision. For tasks like pipetting, where the correct amount of liquid needs to be transferred, cobots can be the best solution. The consistency offered by cobots increases the reliability of experimental processes and ensures the accuracy of the data obtained. Thus, laboratory studies yield more robust results.
How Do Cobots Speed Up Workflows?
One of the most important advantages of cobots is their ability to work continuously. They do not need to rest like humans, which makes them excellent assistants that can work day and night. Cobots provide incredible gains in speed in sample preparation, liquid transfer, and testing processes. This speed significantly optimizes the laboratory’s workflow. Thanks to the accelerated processes, research can be completed in a shorter time, and the obtained data can be analyzed quickly.
What is the Flexibility and Adaptability of Cobots?
While traditional automation systems are usually fixed and specifically designed for a particular task, cobots are quite flexible. Cobots used in laboratories can quickly adapt to changing conditions, perform different types of tasks, and be used in different areas. Their portability allows them to be used in many different environments. For example, they can be easily moved from one laboratory to another. This flexibility significantly increases efficiency in laboratories.
How is Safety Ensured with Cobots?
Cobot is optimized in terms of design to work side by side with humans. For this purpose, it has features such as advanced safety sensors, force feedback, and pre-collision warning systems. In this way, all kinds of precautions are taken to prevent a possible accident. Unlike traditional robot systems, cobots can work safely with humans. Without security vulnerabilities, work is done in a safer environment.
How Does Cobot Use Affect Laboratory Costs?
Investing in automation systems initially may seem like an expensive option for some laboratories. However, cobots allow you to optimize your budget in the long run by reducing labor costs. Fewer errors and faster processing times reduce both time and resource waste. Thus, the return on investment period is quite short. In addition, the operational expenses of the laboratory decrease as a result of less need for personnel and fewer errors.
Are Cobots Indispensable for the Future of Laboratories?
The use of cobots in laboratories undoubtedly plays an important role in increasing efficiency, accuracy, speed, and safety. With the continuous advancement of technology, these robots are expected to become more widespread in laboratory processes. Sora Robotic Cobots seem poised to maximize not only automation but also workforce efficiency in the future.