| A flexible automation system for use in the analytical laboratory was developed and evaluated. The automation system supports a Microbot MiniMover-5 robot as well as equipment for chemical and physical conditioning of samples, and is hosted by an 8086/87 microcomputer system. The software system is written entirely in Pascal.;The automation system consists of a programming environment and a control language to enable chemists to rapidly develop flexible laboratory automation for a variety of analyses. Features of the system include conversions between Cartesian and joint coordinates, obstacle avoidance, experimental independence, interfaces to common laboratory equipment, and user friendliness.;The automation system and the robot were evaluated by using the system in analytical applications. The software system was found to be reliable, easy-to-use by non-specialists, and flexible to a range of analytical methodologies. The mechanical arm was useful, but found to be lacking in lifting capability and positioning accuracy.;Considerations for the successful implementation of robotics in the analytical laboratory are presented. |
