Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
1. SAFETY
Voltage
Safety Interlocks
Tip Waste Container
Tray
Liquids
Replacement Parts
2. Introduction
Unpacking
Standard Equipment
Accessories
Technical Specifications
Customer Service
Repair and Return Policies
Before calling us
Warranty Repair
Non-warranty Repair
Return procedure
Unit End-of-Life
3. SETUP / OPERATION
Placement
On Lab Bench or Lab Chart
In Hood
Removable Tray
Options
Installations
Connections
Rear Panel Diagrams
Input / Output
Contact Inputs
Contact Outputs
DC Power Output
Making Power output
Making connections
USB Host
Ethernet Port
RE-232
HDMI
USB Device
Power Cord Connection
Drain Connection (Optional)
Log IN
View History
4. Messages
Replacement
Consumables
Accessories
1. SAFETY
Read this section installing and operating the RoboLQTM. This instrument is used is intended to be used in
laboratory environment by trained technical personnel.
For safe and proper use of this instrument, it is required that both operating and service personnel follow the
instructions contained in this guide when installing, cleaning, and maintaining the instruments.
The following safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operations, services, and repair of the
instruments. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this user’s guide
violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of this instrument. TCG assumes no liability
for the customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
The RoboLQTM has been certified to safety standards required in Canada, Europe, and the United States. Refer
to the instruments rear panel and the declaration of conformity document for the current standards to which
the instruments has been found compliant.
SAFETY INTERLOCKS
The instruments is configured with one of two safety interlocks. One interlocks is used when the rotating cover
is installed on the instruments, and the other interlock is an external sensor and is used when the instrument is
located in a hood.
The safety interlocks prevent the instruments from operating when the rotating cover or hood door is open.
When the instrument is called in the hood, the external sensor must face the door of the hood and be located
within 15 cm (6in) of the door.
The instrument is capable of generating significant forces that could potential injury to the user. For an
instrument with the rotating cover installed, safety interlock in the cover will disable the instrument
movement if the cover on the instrument is open. For an instrument installed in a hood, the extremely safety
interlock sensor mounted on the instrument will disable the instrument movement if the hood door is open.
The tip waste container residues of flammable or infectious liquids in ejected tips.
If you use flammable liquids (e.g., ethanol 98%), treat the waste before disposing of it in accordance with your
laboratory guidelines.
Dispose of infectious material, waste, or tips in accordance with national and local safety regulations.
TRAY
The moving tray is capable of causing injury by pinching. For an instrument with the rotating cover installed,
the safety interlock in the cover will disable the instrument moment if the cover on the instrument is open. For
an instrument moment if the hood door is open.
LIQUIDS
Observe safe laboratory practices when handling liquids. If working with biological samples or chemicals
substances, ensure that there is proper ventilation, and wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as
safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing at all times.
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets for solvents before use.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Be sure to use only replacements parts specified in the RoboLQ TM. Do not repair or change parts that are not
listed in this user’s guide. If it is necessary to change parts not listed, please contact your local TCG
representative.
1. INTRODUCTION
Unpacking
Technical Specification
Customer Service
Repair and Return Policies
Warranty
UNPACKING
RoboLQTM is delivered with most major components already assembled. Keep the original packaging in case
RoboLQTM must be returned to the factory.
CAUTION: It is recommended that two people lift RoboLQTM out of the box, it weighs approximately 24.9 Kg
(55 lbs.)
NOTICE: Do not attempt to lift RoboLQTM from the cover or from the X-ram (the horizontal arm). Always lift the
instruments from its base.
NOTICE: Do not store screws in rears panel without bracket as that will damage RoboLQ TM during
operation.
10. Remove the shipping brace from the rear panel by loosening the thumbscrews securing the shipping
brace to RoboLQTM. After removing the shipping brace, tighten the thumb screws.
11. Remove the foam block preventing the tray from moving and securing the alignment cable cord.
After RoboLQTM and its accessories are unpacked, you should have the following:
RoboLQTM with alignment head, dual eight-channel tip ejector foot, and rotating cover or
extremely safety interlock sensor installed.
USB Cable
Tip Reload Block.
Tip Disposal Bin.
USB Drive.
Plug for outlet on the Rear panel.
Power Supply.
Power Cords.
REQUIRED ACCESSORIES
Tablet with RoboLQTM formulations pre-loaded or RoboLQTM Formulations on a USB drive for
installation on a PC.
Pipette Head(s).
Removeable Tray.
Blister packs of Tips.
Racks For part numbers, refer to Appendixm Replacement Parts.
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
Tablet Stand.
Riser Kit for Off-bed Tip Disposal.
Orbital Shaker.
Microscan 2D Barcode Reader For part numbers, refer to Appendix, Replacement Parts.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
NOTICE: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by TCG could void the warranty.
The instruments complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operations is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This instruments may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this instrument must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Shielded cables must be used with the instrument to ensure compliance with the FCC Class A limits.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
SPECIFICATION
Communication USB
Connections The USB host and one USB port
Two inputs (contact closure, TTL), two relay outputs and one switched + 12DC 1A
NOTICE: Switching voltages higher than 30V or greater than 1A of current may damage the
instruments.
Control Touchscreen table or PC control via USB and TRILUTION® micro software
Environmental Indoor use
Conditions Altitude: up to 2000 m
Temperature range: 5° C- 40°C
Humidity: Maximum relative humidity 80% for temperature up to 31°C, decreasing linearly
to 50% relative at 40° C
Front Panel The USB host part and STOP button
Liquid Contract Description Material
Materials Tips 100% Virgin polypropylene
Tip Disposal Bin Pro-fax 6523 (polypropylene with colorant)
To Disposal Bin (Off-bed) Polypropylene
Tip Chute Pro-fax 6523 (Polypropylene with colorant)
Aluminum 5052 with Polane G Plus point
Positioning Machine Accuracy (without lips) in XYZ = + / - 0.2 mm (0.008”)
Performance System Accuracy (with current lips) in XYZ = + / - 0.9 mm (0.032”)
Power External Power Supply
Requirement Voltage Input
Frequency: 50 to 60 Hz
Voltage: 100-240V AC
Voltage Output
Voltage: 24V DC
Current Rating: 6.25A, 150W
Removable Tray 9-position removable tray (microplate Footprints, but not fr 384-well microplates)
Capacity 9-Position removable tray for 384- well microplates
Safety and The RoboLQTM has been certified to safety standards specified for Canada, Europe and the
Compliance United States. Refer to the instruments rear panel label and the Declaration of Conformity
documents for current standards to which the instruments has been found compliant.
Volumnetric Maximum Permissible Errors
Specification for
Transfers Volume of
Pipette Systematic Random Systematic Random
Distilled
Head Error (μL) Error (μL) Error (%) Error (%)
Water
1μL ±0.08 ≤0.05 8 5
MAX8x20 10μL ±0.15 ≤0.10 1.5 1
20μL ±0.25 ≤0.12 1.25 0.6
20μL ±0.50 ≤0.16 2.5 08
MAX8x200 100μL ±1.00 ≤0.30 1 03
200μL ±2.00 ≤0.50 1 0.25
Weight 24.9 kg (55 lbs)
XYZ Motion X Min Max Default
Parameters Power 1% 100% 50%
Speed 1mm /sec 550 mm / sec 350 mm / sec
Acceleration Speed Value 4000 mm /sec2 2200 mm / sec2
Y Min Max Default
Power 1% 100% 50%
Speed 1mm /sec 550 mm / sec 350 mm / sec
Acceleration Speed Value 4000 mm /sec2 900 mm / sec2
Z Min Max Default
Power 1% 100% 50%
Speed 1mm /sec 550 mm / sec 120 mm / sec
Acceleration Speed Value 4000 mm /sec2 650 mm / sec2
CUSTOMOER SERVICE
TCG and its worldwide network of authorized representative provide customers with the following types of
assistance: sales, technical support, application, and instrument repair.
If you need assistance, please contact your local TCG representative. Specific contact information can be found
at www.thecapsulegroup.com. To help us serve you quickly and efficient, please refer to the Before Calling Us
section below.
BEFORE CALLING US
Your local TCG representative will be able to serve you more efficiently if you have the following information:
WARRANTY REPAIR
Units covered under warranty will be repaired and returned to you at no charge. If you have any question
about applicability, contact your local TCG representative.
NON-WARRENTY
For out-of-warranty repairs, contact your local TCG representative who will discuss service options with you
and can assist in making arrangements to return the equipment, if necessary.
RETURN PROCEDURE
Contact your local TCG representative to obtain authorization before retuning any TCG equipment. To
return a piece of equipment:
Carefully pack the unit to prevent damage in transit. Check with your local TCG representative
regarding proper method of shipment. No responsibility is assumed by TCG or your local TCG
representative for damage caused by improperly packaged instruments. Indicate the authorized on
the carton and on the packing slip.
Always insure of replacements value of unit.
Include a description of symptoms, your name, address, phone number, and purchase order to cover
repair costs return and shipping charges, if your institution requires it.
UNIT END-OF-LIFE
When a unit reaches the end of its useful life, refers to www.thecapsulegroup.com for directions and
information on the end-of-life policy. This is in accordance with the European Union Directive 2002/96/EC on
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE).
1 Placement
2 Removable
3. Connections
4 Power On and Start Up
5 Log In
6 Run Alignment Protocol
7 Run Application and protocols
8 Settings
9 History
10 Ordering from the TCG Store
11 Existing RoboLQTM Formulations.
PLACEMENT
RoboLQTM is configured with one of two safety interlocks. One interlocks is internal to the rotating cover
installed on the instruments, and the interlock is external sensor used when the instruments is located in a
hood.
The safety interlocks prevent the instrument from operating when the rotating cover or hood door is open.
IN HOOD.
When the instrument is installed in the hood, the external sensor must face the door of the hood and be
located within 15cm (6in) of the door.
REMOVABLE TRAY
OPTIONS
Tip racks can be placed in the back left position ONLY (Custom models may select a custom configuration
based on customer’s needs). These Positions have installed clips to hold the tips racks in place. It is
recommended to use full tip packs because an error may be encountered if using two partial tip packs
containing the same type of tip.
The tip waste chute can be placed in the back row, left position ONLY. It is recommended to place the tips
disposal bin in this position. It cannot be placed in positions with installed clips.
INSTALLATION
While holding the handles on the slides of the tray, lower the try onto the metal carrier. It is keyed and will
only mount one way. Observe that the tray is level and fully seated on the metal carrirer.
CONNECTIONS
Refer to the diagram when making the connections described in this section.
1. Input/Output
2. USB host (Not Supported)
3. USB host
4. Ethernet (Not Supported)
5. USB Device
6. RS-232 (Not Supported)
7. HDMI (Not Supported)
8. Power receptacle
9. Power switch
INPUT/OUTPUT
The input/output contacts on the rear panel are used for communication between the alignment head and
RoboLQTM Formulations and for communication between the external safety interlocks sensor and RoboLQTM
Formulations. The contacts can also be used to control peripheral devices. Refer to the diagram on Page 2 – 4
for the location of the input/output parts.
CONTACT INPUTS
The bottom terminals block on RoboLQTM has two paired input contacts that are labeled 4 to 5. Never connect
voltages higher than 5VDC to an input. When usin TTL signals, be sure to match GROUND connections.
CONTACT OUTPUTS
The bottom terminals block on RoboLQTM has two paired, isolated- relay contact closure that are labeled 1 and
2.
DC POWER OUTPUT
The top terminal block has one +12DC output, which is labeled.
MAKING CONNECTIONS
USB HOST
RoboLQTM has one functional USB host port (the middle part) on the rear panel. The top on the rear panel is
not supported.
The USB ports can be used to connect USB drives (which can also be seen by the tablet when plugged into
RoboLQTM), keyboard, mouse, or any other compatible device (heater/chiller, barcode scanner, or shaker, for
example).
ETHERNET PORT
Not Supported
RS-232
Not Supported
HDMI
Not Supported
USB DEVICE
The USB device is used for communication between RoboLQTM and the tablet or PC. A USB cable is provided as
a standard accessory.
Use the power cord on the external supply to make the connection between the power receptacles on
RoboLQTM
The connection from the external power supply RoboLQTM uses a connector with a locking collar. Check the
alignment of the pins and then push it in until it clicks and locks in place. To disconnect, pull back on the
locking collar and then disconnect the cable from the rear panel of RoboLQTM.
Locate the appropriate power cord for your line voltage and then make the connection between the external
power supply and the AC power source.
The RoboLQTM bed includes a drain. Optionally, connect a 1/8” NTP fitting and drain tubing. Ensure that the
waste container is lower than the bed of RoboLQTM.
1. US host
2. STOP
USB HOST
RoboLQTM has two functional USB host ports on the front panel.
The USB ports can be used to connect USB drives (which can also be seen by the tablet when plugged into
RoboLQTM), Keyboard, mouse, or any other compatible device (heater/chiller, barcode, scanner, or shaker, for
example).
STOP
In a situation where an emergency stop is required, pressing the STOP button stops RoboLQTM immediately.
The protocol stops and results are displayed (after touching OK on the notification).
POWER ON AND START UP
To start RoboLQTM:
1. Make sure RoboLQTM is connected the external power supply and that the external power supply is
connected to a power source.
2. Turn Power on at the external power supply.
3. Turn RoboLQTM power on using the MAIN power switched on the rear panel. The indicator light on the
front panel will illuminate.
4. Connect the tablet or PC to a power source and power it on.
5. Start RoboLQTM Formulations (PC users only). RoboLQTM will not operate with the cover or hood on
the tablet.
6. Close the rotating cover or hood door. RoboLQ TM will not operate with the cover or hood door open.
LOGIN
Run the Alignment Protocol to ensure proper alignment. It is only necessary to run this protocol when
setting up the instrument for the first time, or if instructed do so by your local TCG representative.
1. Pass the end of the Alignment cable cord with pre-wired connector through the outlet at the back of
RoboLQTM.
2. The connector is labeled BOTTOM because it connects to the bottom set of input/output ports on the
rear panel of RoboLQTM. Make the connection.
3. The clips to secure the tip racks on the tray can interfere with the alignment. Ensure that the clips ( )
are positioned as shown in the diagram below, and that the thumbscrews have been tightened.
4. Close the rotating cover or the fume hood door.
5. Start RoboLQTM Formulation.
1. Tap the settings icon in the bottom right corner of the screen.
2. Tap Calibrate RoboLQTM.
3. Wait approximately 3 minutes while the Alignment Protocol runs.
4. A notification appears when the Alignment Protocol is complete. Select Continue.
Remove the alignment head by disconnecting the terminal block connector from the rear panel, and then
removing the thumb nuts securing it to the upper pipette head assembly. Cover the hole on the rear panel
from the exterior using the black plug supplied in the accessory package.
If your RoboLQTM does not have a rotating cover, connect the terminal block connectors for the external
safety interlock sensor to the input/output on the rear panel. They labeled TOP and BOTTOM to help
ensure proper connection.
1. Using the supplied 3/32”hex wrench, remove the shoulder screw in the installed tip ejector foot.
2. Remove the tip ejector foot.
3. Slide the tip ejector for eight and one channel onto the ejector leg.
4. Use the supplied 3/32”hex wrench to start threading the shoulder screw, but do not fully tighten.
Install the pipette head(s) on the upper pipette head assembly using the thumbscrew. Ensure proper
alignment of the pipette head against the upper pipette head assembly before tightening the
thumbscrew.
If using only one pipette head, install a blank head on the other side. Refer to the following instructions for
how to convert the alignment head into a blank head. The instructions described how to convert it and
remove. It: however it can be converted while installed.
If a pipette head is already installed and needs to be removed, remove the pipette head by removing the
thumbscrew securing it to the upper pipette head assembly.
Manually move the tip ejector foot down to the bottom, and while holding it down, tighten the shoulder
screw.
Tip racks only be placed in positions with installed clips. To install the tip rack:
While the run is in progress, DO NOT open the hood: however, if the hood has been opened and you
choose to continue the run, observe that the run resumes as expected.
PAUSE
While running a protocol, open the hood to pause the run. The run will stop immediately. The protocol
run will stop immediately. The protocol run timer keeps advancing during the pause. When prompted,
close the hood to resume the run.
STOP
To stop RoboLQTM immediately, Press the red STOP button on the front of RoboLQ TM. This is a hard stop
and can potentially damage your machine. Use only in extreme cases or as directed by your TCG
representative.
Simple mode will help formulate a capsule and will indicate to the user the proper ratio of active to
inactive ingredients necessary to achieve the desired dosage of active fill material per capsule.
Entering these input we’ll give the operator an output on the validation screen of the proper
concentrations of both active and inactive fill materials to procedure.
6. Tap initiate job to transmit the details of trhe formula to the RoboLQ TM
7. Insert prepared capsule tray into The RoboLQTM.
8. Tap start job to initiate the protocol.
Advanced mode will dispense a programmed amount of liquid per capsule, as per the setting inputted into
The RoboLQTM Formulation Software.
Note: Formulating based off of total batch volume will output how many capsules can be produced given
that amount of starting liquid.
Note: Formulating Based off of Desired capsule batch size will inform the operator how much total fill
material will be required achieve to achieve this protocol.
1. Saving a Formula
All Formulas can be found in the load formula tab to the left of the screen.
Return RoboLQTM Home - This button returns X, Y, and Z axis’ to their starting home location.
Release RoboLQTM Heads - This buttons releases the locks of the piston Cassettes; this is used to
replace the Piston Cassette with the Alignment Cassette and vice versa.
Reset Tip Start Position – This resets the system-tracked counter for the disposable tips being
used. Click this button if you have manually replaced your tip rack with a new one.
Reset Reservoir Level – This button resets the tracked volume remaining 292ml or 2000ml
setting. Click this button if you are running a completely different formulation and would like the
system to reflect new fully filled reservoir
Calibrate RoboLQTM – This initializes the calibration protocol. Calibration is only necessary after
transport and initial installation.
QC Product – This button initiates the built-in formula verification protocol, Use this tool to
calculate and save the volumetric settings for each specific formula.
Validation Bar – A red indicates that the inputted formula breaks one or more of the safety
protocol parameters. A green bar indicates that the formula conforms to the safety protocol
parameters, as set forth for each capsule size.
During and after a protocol run, information is available about volumes (initial volume, volume added, volume
removed and current volume).
After a protocol run, results for that run are automatically stored in the History Tab. To view results:
Tap the Shopping Cart Button on the right Corner of the Screen to open the TCG Store. Additional
consumables, accessories, capsules and replacement items are all available for purchase in-app from the TCG
Store. Simply tap the item you’d like to purchase and check out via the on-Screen instructions.
To exist the RoboLQTM Formulations software, tap the X in the top right corner of the Screen.
4. MESSAGES
RoboLQTM Formulations will display a message if a known error is encountered. This chapter describes some of
the more common errors and how to prevent them.
INVALID FORMUALTION
A) Entering formula that exceeds the fill capacity of the capsule size.
B) Formulating to a capsule batch size not divisible by a multiple of 16
Redesign formula according to the RoboLQTM Formulation safety protocols to proceed with formula
executions.
HOOD OPEN
If a Hood open error appears, close the rotating cover or hood door. RoboLQ TM will not operate with cover or
hood door open.
While the run in progress, DO NOT open the hood; however, if the hood has been opened, you will see the
following message. If you choose to continue the run, close the rotating cover or hood door and then observe
that the run resumes as expected.
If there is not enough volume in a well or tube to complete an aspirate, RoboLQ TM formulations will display a
prompt to refill the reservoir levels.
If the during a simulation the software calculates that you do not have enough tips to run your protocol or
if while running the protocol you run out of tips, the message at right appears. Open the rotating cover or
hood door, replace or refill the tip rack, close the rotating cover or hood door, and then touch Continue.
Note: Use two hands and lift carefully when removing the empty tip pack from the tip reload block, jarring
movements could cause spillage of liquids from other racks.
CRITICAL ERROR
If the RoboLQTM encounters a critical error, the robotic arm will stop in whichever position it is in. The built
in safety protocols will read this automatically initiate the emergency home protocol, releasing the z-axis
and returning x & y to their home position. Pressing the Stop button on the Front of the machine while the
z-axis is either aspirating of dispensing liquid typically cause this error.
5. MAINTENANCE
RoboLQTM is designed to require a minimum level of maintenance. This chapter includes information
about:
Cleaning
Replace pipette
CLEANING
Keep RoboLQTM clean for peak performance. Always turn the power off to RoboLQ TM before cleaning.
Wipe RoboLQTM with a soft cloth dampened with a mild detergent and disinfect as needed. For
information about cleaning the touchscreen on the tablet, refer to the documentation supplied with it.
To replace a pipette, open the settings screen in RoboLQ TM Formulations. Tap the relaease RoboLQTM
Heads buttons. This will disengage the locks on the pipette cassette. When the pistons are fully retracted,
unscrew the thumbscrews and remove old pipette cassette. Replace with new cassette and retighten
thumbscrews.
REPLACEABLES