Challenges in intelligent robotic manipulation in self-driving laboratories
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17979/ja-cea.2025.46.12244Keywords:
Automation, Robotic manipulator, Self-driving labAbstract
Self-driving labs (SDLs) represent an innovative approach that combines artificial intelligence, process automation, robotics, and materials science. These environments are designed to perform experiments without direct human intervention, significantly accelerating the discovery and optimization of new materials. This article presents the general components of an SDL, describing their functionality, dependencies, and interactions with each other to perform chemical experiments. Within these components, one of the fundamental blocks is robotic manipulation, which allows experimental tasks to be executed in a precise, repeatable, and efficient manner. Programmable robotic arms perform operations such as liquid dispensing, compound mixing, sample transfer, and instrument cleaning, replacing tasks traditionally performed by human technicians. Therefore, this article also identifies the main challenges in intelligent robotic manipulation required for the optimal functioning of SDLs.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Edwin Daniel Oña, Lisbeth Mena, Dorin Sabin Copaci
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