The Connected Laboratory for LC and LC-MS Workflow Automation

Importance of the topic

Automation of sample preparation is essential to achieve high reproducibility, accuracy, and throughput in modern chromatographic and mass spectrometric analysis. By replacing manual pipetting with robot-assisted workflows, laboratories can reduce human error, standardize protocols, and accelerate decision-making.

Study objectives and overview

This document presents a connected laboratory solution for LC and LC-MS workflows based on the Andrew+ liquid handling robot and the OneLab cloud software. It aims to demonstrate how integrated hardware and software can simplify method design, enhance traceability, and improve operational efficiency.

Methodology and instrumentation

• Software: OneLab provides a drag-and-drop interface for protocol design, a cloud protocol library, and remote workflow deployment.
• Robotics: Andrew+ automates pipetting, serial dilutions, normalization, and other sample preparation steps without requiring programming skills.
• Connected devices: Smart electronic pipettes (Pipette+), vacuum extraction modules, heating and cooling blocks (0 °C to 99 °C), mixers, shakers, and magnetic bead separators.
• Compliance: Technical controls support electronic records regulation (EU Annex 11 and 21 CFR Part 11) and capture reagent metadata and calibration logs.

Main results and discussion

The integrated solution delivers:

• Effortless transition from manual to fully automated workflows, reducing setup time and training needs.
• Enhanced reproducibility and accuracy through guided pipetting and centralized protocol management.
• Modular flexibility to perform manual, guided, or fully automated steps as required by the application.
• Real-time connectivity and traceability, ensuring detailed electronic documentation of every action.
• Improved safety by minimizing repetitive strain injuries and allowing operation within fume hoods and biosafety cabinets.

Benefits and practical applications

• Consistent sample preparation for high-throughput LC and LC-MS analysis in pharmaceutical, environmental, and biopharmaceutical laboratories.
• Reduced variability and greater confidence in analytical results.
• Streamlined compliance with regulatory requirements for electronic record keeping.
• Ergonomic advantages and safer working environments by minimizing manual handling.

Future trends and opportunities

Ongoing developments in laboratory automation may include:

• Integration of artificial intelligence for adaptive workflow optimization and error prediction.
• Expanded device interoperability through standardized communication protocols.
• Advanced data analytics for real-time process monitoring and predictive maintenance.
• Broader adoption in quality control and regulated environments driven by digital transformation initiatives.

Conclusion

The combination of OneLab software and Andrew+ robotics delivers a scalable, user-friendly, and traceable automation platform for LC and LC-MS workflows. By improving reproducibility, accuracy, and safety, this connected laboratory approach empowers scientists to focus on data interpretation and innovation.

Reference

No references were provided in the source document.