QCX/AutoPrep is one of two alternative laboratory automation concepts available from FLSmidth; the other is QCX/RoboLab. These two automation solutions are exponents from each of the following two main categories of automation concepts for sample preparation and analysis :
• Automated equipment systems : Laboratories in which the sample preparation units and the analysis equipment are automated and then linked together by conventional transport belts or alike. The automation is provided by dedicated highly specialised equipment units.
• Robotics systems : Laboratories in which automation is achieved by robotics. The equipment units serviced by the robot(s) may be fully automated, semi-automatic or manual versions. In the dedicated robot automation concept the robot is a specialized automation component and integrated in the detailed handling of the other equipment components to an extent making it very difficult to re-program the robot for modified procedures. In the flexible robot automation the operator is automated rather than the equipment. The main automation element provided by the robot is the transport of samples between the different stations in the robot cell. The concept implies that the robot can easily be re-programmed or set up to service new equipment units.
The choice of automation concept depends on the complexity of a particular analysis method, the volume of the sample throughput and the overall automation concept desired. Typical key decision criteria to consider are :
• Capacity and complexity of methods
• Sample types and material properties
• Analytical requirements
• Equipment location, building lay-out
• Current and future labour costs
• Daily operation and maintenance implications
• Data processing requirements
• Flexibility towards future needs
In general the dedicated automated equipment solution (as QCX/AutoPrep) is - as graphically outlined in the diagrams below - favorable with high sample throughput and/or low complexity. For a 'powder preparation only' configuration, which is regarded as a low complexity operation, this means in most cases that a linear type arrangement is the most cost effective of the two alternatives. Another factor in favour of a linear configuration could be space, since a linear configuration at least in one dimension only requires say 3-4 meter room width.
Robotics solutions are normally preferable with increased complexity of the procedures, because the robotics approach means less adaptation of equipment units and 'simpler' less expensive automation of a wider range of laboratory components.
