Fraunhofer: Prototype lab robot in development

Development opportunity

Researchers  from the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation (IFF )in Magdeburg, Germany, are developing a robot that will carry out repetitive laboratory tasks in the company of human researchers. LISA – short for life science assistant – will have the capability to load incubators and handle measuring equipment and sample trays in concert with human colleagues and accurately navigate from one lab instrument to the next.

LISA is equipped with a sensitive gripper arm that is designed to hold plastic dishes but not injure human beings. Its “artificial skin” consists of conductive foam and textiles, coupled with intelligent signal processing. This skin senses and cushions, avoiding  contact with human colleagues. A thermographic camera additionally registers body heat and indicates, for instance, if a human colleague’s hand is in the way. It has a laser-aided navigation system with which it orients itself and can go through doorways on its own.

The developers at the IFF and their seven project partners from industry and research say LISA will be capable of carrying out everyday routine laboratory tasks, and will be able to work around the clock at that.

LISA uses language to communicate and is able to understand entire sentences such as, “Get me dish A4 from incubator 8.” If something is unclear, it asks. In addition, simple work commands can be entered through a touch screen.

LISA is designed to be able to learn new actions easily. This is important in life science laboratories where new types of measuring stations are frequently installed or varied work steps are executed. “LISA is tailored precisely to its niche,” says project coordinator Norbert Elkmann from the IFF.