| Laboratory robotics had its origins in devices constructed to perform specific and invariant mechanical operations in the chemical laboratory. Examples of this type of automation equipment include: automatic titrators, fraction collectors, and autoanalyzers. With the advancements in the electronics and computer industries, it has been possible to build more flexible automated devices, which we now call robots. Programmable robots can be taught to do a variety of routine procedures and are a valuable asset in the chemical laboratory.;However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to be able to initially set up or modify an existing automation without the assistance of a vendor expert. Automation manufacturers often impose restrictions on how a device may be used and reconfiguration of the device by the user is usually too complex for the average technician. Also, it is not uncommon to find automated systems that only support the use of one manufacturer's balance, diluter, or other device. This approach simplifies the work needed in the development and manufacturing processes of the robotic system. But, by neglecting to design systems that can accept a wide range of third party equipment, the manufacturer restricts the user's ability to independently design unique applications.;To address these issues, an example robotic system was constructed at the University of Cincinnati (UC). In this work, the feasibility of creating a simple and flexible automation using ordinary laboratory devices controlled via RS-232 was investigated. The system devised can control any device that is RS-232 compatible and can be reconfigured to accept new devices easily. The basis for this system is ASCII text definition files used by the control software. The software uses the configuration information, including ASCII command sets, to implement control of the RS-232 devices.;A common pharmacuetical analysis (The Acid Neutralizing Capacity of OTC Antacids) was selected and implemented using The UC Robotic Titrator. Validation of the precision and accuracy of all devices involved in the automation was performed and the system performance tested. In standard mode, throughput of a single sample was approximately 30 minutes. With the addition of the multitasking kernel, sample throughput of the system increased by 50%, while maintaining similar precision and accuracy for the analysis. This automation, although a demonstration system, proves the applicability of such a generic system design concept. The U.C. Robotic Titrator is a remarkably easy to configure, yet flexible automated system. |
