﹤Biotech & Biomed Innovation、Artificial Intelligence、Mechatronics and Automation﹥Collaborative Robot-Based Automated System for Cell Culture Medium Dispensing

National Pingtung University of Science and Technology /  Chen,Yi-Ling Lecturer

 Pain Points Solved 

  1. Transition from manual visual estimation to image-guided automated dispensing decision-making.

  2. Integrate multiple cell culture media processing procedures into a single platform.

  3. Reduce the risk of contamination caused by direct human contact with samples.

  4. Enhance sampling representativeness, dispensing consistency, and experimental reproducibility.

  5. Can be rapidly adjusted according to different experimental workflows, possessing potential for technology transfer and commercialization.

 Technology Introduction 

This technology develops a collaborative robot-based automated system for cell culture medium dispensing. It integrates machine vision, volume detection, quick-change gripper and micropipette modules, and a dual-axis rotary shaker to automate liquid volume assessment, bottle opening, liquid aspiration, dispensing, and homogenization. The system reduces the risk of contamination and operational errors while improving process consistency, stability, and reproducibility. Its modular design also offers potential for further expansion, technology transfer, and commercialization.

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 Application Examples 

 

  • Image recognition technology calculates the volume of cell culture medium for packaging decisions 

Using image processing technologies such as ROI (Region of Interest) box selection, color filtering, and image binarization, the liquid level is identified and the remaining liquid volume inside the bottle is calculated. This serves as the basis for automatic liquid picking and dispensing, reducing human judgment errors.

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  • Quick-release replacement module design for arm flange surfaces

The quick-release gripper module and micropipette module designed in this product can be quickly replaced and configured according to different experimental workflows and operational requirements. Through the quick-release mechanism design, the arm can switch end-end tools without recalibration or major adjustments to program parameters, enhancing system operational flexibility and efficiency

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  • Homogenization of cell culture medium

Through dual-axis rotation control, homogenization of the cell culture medium is achieved. Compared to traditional manual shaking methods, this platform provides stable and repeatable mixing results, effectively preventing uneven cell settling and ensuring consistency between sampling and dispensing results

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 Related Links 

None

 Patent Name and Number 

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 Industry-Academia / Tech Transfer Partner 

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 Honors and Awards  

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 Technical Contact  

Joan Li, Project Manager

National Pingtung University of Science and Technology
Tel: +886 8-7703202 ext. 6571
Email: joanli@mail.npust.edu.tw