uLab Uno: one arm for sample handling in the laboratory

* Guide value for autonomous operation. Actual throughput depends on the test profile and the sample volume. Clinical chemistry, immunology, haematology and coagulation run in parallel; centrifugation requirements, priority samples and the way samples reach the system all affect the result. We determine the throughput to expect in your laboratory together with you beforehand.

One arm for the movements that repeat all day

Every laboratory has work nobody studied for: take the tube out of the rack, read the barcode, put it in the centrifuge, take it out again, pass it on. These movements are not difficult. They simply have to be done endlessly often — and they tie up exactly the people who are missing elsewhere.

uLab Uno is a compact single-arm system that takes over this chain. It is part of the uLab technology platform, the proven standard behind our laboratory robotics.

What uLab Uno does

• High-precision handling: gripping and handling systems developed for demanding laboratory processes, not adapted from industrial use.
• AI-supported object recognition: sample vessels are identified reliably, even with changing types and labels.
• Barcode handling: barcodes of up to 16 digits are read reliably.
• Device connectivity: centrifugation, decapping, pneumatic tube systems, scales, haematology, coagulation, urine — connected rather than bypassed.
• Modular architecture: a scalable design that fits into different laboratory environments.

Integration without turning it into a project

• Plug and play: installed without structural changes, minimal footprint.
• LIS connectivity: standardised connection to CLSI LIS1-A (formerly ASTM E1381), plus a REST API that is already implemented; SiLA is in preparation, OPC UA is used on a project-specific basis.
• Safety: ISO conformity and certified safety zones for working alongside people.
• Orchestration through uGo+: sample tracking, prioritisation of STAT and critical samples, plausibility checks, reordering, archiving and complete traceability.

Your robot. Your data.

A system working in your laboratory sees samples, orders and workflows. That data is nobody's business outside your organisation. Processing therefore runs on the device, a permanent cloud connection is not required for operation, and uGo+ shows who started which task — the basis for a data protection impact assessment, for the works council and for the authorities.

Buy or rent: Robot-as-a-Service

You can buy uLab Uno or rent it as Robot-as-a-Service. With rental you pay a recurring monthly rate covering hardware, software maintenance and service together — from the operating budget instead of the capital budget. This is the usual route for a pilot and for a step-by-step rollout across several sites.

Try it first

Before a robot moves in your facility, your workflow has already run at ours: at our training centres in Stuhr (laboratory and diagnostics) and Gelsenkirchen (hospital and care) we rehearse your workflow on a real set-up. Book a training-centre visit.

Frequently asked questions

What is uLab Uno?

uLab Uno is a compact single-arm robotic system for handling samples in clinical and pharmaceutical laboratories. It picks up sample vessels, identifies them through AI-supported object recognition, reads barcodes and operates connected laboratory devices such as centrifuges.

Does my laboratory need to be rebuilt?

No. uLab Uno is designed for a minimal footprint and is installed without structural changes. The system works in the existing environment, not in a purpose-built one.

How is uLab Uno connected to our laboratory system?

Through a standardised LIS connection to CLSI LIS1-A, formerly ASTM E1381. A REST API is also available; SiLA is in preparation and OPC UA is used on a project-specific basis.

Is operation alongside people permitted?

Yes. uLab Uno meets the applicable ISO requirements and works within certified safety zones for human-machine collaboration.

Can uLab Uno be rented?

Yes. Alongside outright purchase there are rental and RaaS models with a monthly rate covering hardware, software maintenance and service together.

Technical data

For anyone who has to do the maths before deciding. Whatever is missing here, we send as a full document on request.

Performance

• Throughput: up to 90 tubes per hour of operation
• Sample singulation: up to 450 samples per hour
• Autonomy: up to 16 hours of full autonomy without supervision; continuous operation is technically possible
• Availability: over 98 per cent in autonomous operation
• Recognition: cap colour over 95 per cent, barcodes from 8 to 20 digits
• Switchover: from autonomous to manual within 10 minutes

Robot arm

• Dimensions: 160 × 58 × 60.5 cm (H × W × D)
• Weight: 100 kg, payload: 5 kg, reach: 800 mm
• Protection: IP54, cleanroom: ISO 14644-1 class 6
• Power draw: around 200 W in a typical programme
• Safety: 17 configurable safety functions including elbow monitoring

Daily archive

• 200 × 60 × 89.1 cm, 95 kg
• 5 racks of 50 positions, one rack per laboratory discipline
• Reject lane with manual drawer

Connection and integration

• Power: 10 × 230 V / 16 A, network: 7 ports
• LIS: connection to CLSI LIS1-A (formerly ASTM E1381) plus REST API. Operation without LIS and without middleware is possible: uGo+ then works from barcode suffix, cap colour or material identifier.
• Sample vessels: to EN 14820 and ISO 6710

Conformity

• CE declaration under the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
• Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU, EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
• EN ISO 13849-1, EN ISO 10218-1, pose repeatability to ISO 9283
• Performance Level PLd, category 3