| abstract |
The Benchtop Laboratory Apparatus Automation System, hereafter referred to as BLAAS, is designed for automation of common laboratory benchtop devices such as pipette tip boxes, waste containers, sample tubes and trays, and reagent or solvent containers. The BLAAS consists of a microprocessor, sensor and physical actuator attached to the benchtop device. A user's hand approaching the device will be detected and the system will respond by opening the device, allowing hands-free access to the contents. After a short delay, the top closes again after the hand clears the device. A light will illuminate to indicate when the device is actively opening, and parameters like the speed of the movement, the stop positions of the servo and the time the device remains open can be adjusted. |