User Manual

@Robot Pro-6 User Manual

1. Product Overview

@Robot Pro-6 is a 6-position liquid handling robot designed for automated pipetting, dispensing, mixing, serial dilution, plate replication, sample normalization, and small-batch reagent distribution on a standard laboratory bench, in a biosafety cabinet, or on a clean bench.

The product uses the VECVERSE @Pette Pro smart pipette as its pipetting core. Combined with AI vision positioning, cross calibration, XY-axis automatic homing, and offset compensation, it provides a compact, high-precision, interactive liquid handling automation platform.

1.1 Key Features

Item	Description
Model	@Robot Pro-6
Deck positions	6 positions
Part number	0170-0002
Typical use cases	Multi-position workflows, long unattended runs, complex procedures, and broad labware combinations
Pipetting range	0.5–1250 µL when mounted on the workstation
Positioning capability	Vision monitoring + cross positioning; nominal positioning accuracy ±0.05 mm
Traceability	Automatically records time, volume, mode, and other run information for experiment review
Control method	Tablet or computer control; supports workstation connection, experiment creation, run monitoring, settings, and maintenance
Labware strategy	VECVERSE-custom labware is not mandatory; multi-brand tips, plates, and containers are supported when matching bases and software labware definitions are used

1.2 Intended Use

• Basic operations: pipetting, dispensing, mixing, reverse pipetting.

• Typical workflows: serial dilution, plate replication, reagent addition, plate filling, sample normalization.

• Complex workflows: custom multi-step aspiration/dispense, labware exchange, pause and wait, scan-based transfer.

• Application notes: specific application scenarios, labware combinations, and methodological boundaries for different experiment protocols are documented separately. This manual describes general workstation operation and safety requirements.

2. Safety Information

This manual uses a four-tier DANGER / WARNING / CAUTION / NOTICE signal-word system to flag hazard severity: DANGER indicates a hazard that will cause death or serious injury if not avoided; WARNING indicates a hazard that could cause death or serious injury; CAUTION indicates a hazard that could cause minor injury; NOTICE indicates a risk of equipment damage or invalid results with no personal-injury risk. The labels below are reference-level classifications; final risk grading should be confirmed by your organization's safety and regulatory review.

2.1 Safety Requirements Before Use

1. The workstation is intended for laboratory and research use only.

2. Do not use the workstation outside the specified operating environment.

3. Before running, confirm that the workstation is placed on a stable surface and that the bench does not wobble.

4. Before running, confirm that the pipette is installed correctly and that tips, plates, reservoirs, waste containers, used-tip containers, and other labware are placed correctly. Remove the tip rack lid before placing the tip rack onto its base.

5. WARNING: During operation, do not place hands, tools, cables, or any other foreign objects inside the XYZ motion area.

6. WARNING: When handling toxic, infectious, volatile, or flammable liquids, follow laboratory safety procedures and operate in a suitable protective facility with appropriate personal protective equipment.

7. After emergency stop, do not continue the original experiment. After confirming safety, only restart is allowed. When "Restart" is tapped, the software will automatically home the axes.

2.2 Key Risks

Risk	Severity	Description	Control Measure
Z-axis collision	CAUTION	Incorrect tip, plate, carrier, or object position may cause collision.	Check labware positions before running. Stop and inspect after any abnormality.
Tip rack lid interference	NOTICE	If the tip rack lid is not removed, it may interfere with the pipetting module, causing collision or tip pickup failure.	Remove the tip rack lid before placing the tip rack into the base, and confirm again before running.
Hands entering work area	WARNING	Moving mechanisms may pinch or collide with personnel.	Keep hands out during operation. Use software emergency stop when needed.
Tip abnormality	NOTICE	Tilted, detached, or poorly sealed tips may affect results.	Use compatible tips and check the tip rack before running.
Leakage or dripping	CAUTION	May cause contamination or volume error.	Select appropriate pipetting parameters. Pause and clean if abnormality occurs.
Network or software interruption	NOTICE	Tablet disconnection may affect status synchronization.	Keep the network stable during operation and follow recovery procedures after abnormalities.

2.3 Emergency Stop and Recovery

• The current hardware version does not include a physical emergency stop button. During protocol execution, emergency stop is located in the upper-right corner of the tablet execution screen. It is not displayed when no protocol is running.

• Software emergency stop is used to stop hazardous motion immediately. It applies to abnormal motion, collision risk, leakage risk, personnel entering the work area, and other urgent situations.

• After emergency stop is triggered, first confirm that the work area is safe, then restart according to the interface prompt. When "Restart" is tapped, the software will automatically home the axes.

• If an EP tube, tip, or labware item remains on the mechanism, manually confirm how it should be handled before homing to avoid secondary collision.

• After emergency stop, the original experiment must not be continued. Before restarting the experiment, check deck placement, pipette status, tip status, and experiment protocol configuration.

Current software behavior: after emergency stop, only restart is allowed. When the user taps "Restart", the software automatically performs homing. After homing and pre-run checks are complete, run the experiment as a new protocol.

3. System Components

3.1 Main Unit Components

Component	Description
XYZ motion mechanism	Positions and moves the pipetting module within the working area
6-position deck	Holds plates, tip racks, waste containers, reservoirs, used-tip containers, and other labware
X-axis quick-release base	Used to install the single-channel pipette clamp or 8-channel pipette clamp
Pipette mounting structure	Supports one mounted @Pette Pro smart pipette
Vision module	Supports vision positioning and tip status monitoring
Tablet interface	Used for workstation connection, experiment configuration, run monitoring, settings, and maintenance
Power and communication interfaces	Provide power supply and data communication

3.2 @Pette Pro Pipette and Clamps

The pipetting module of @Robot Pro-6 is the full @Pette Pro pipette series. Depending on the experiment, either a single-channel or an 8-channel pipette clamp can be installed on the X-axis quick-release base, followed by the corresponding @Pette Pro pipette. Only one pipette can be mounted on the workstation at a time.

Type	Range	Part Number
Single-channel pipette	0.5–10 µL	0110-0010
Single-channel pipette	5–100 µL	0110-0100
Single-channel pipette	20–200 µL	0110-0200
Single-channel pipette	30–300 µL	0110-0300
Single-channel pipette	50–1000 µL	0110-1000
8-channel pipette	0.5–10 µL	0111-0010
8-channel pipette	5–100 µL	0111-0100
8-channel pipette	20–200 µL	0111-0200
8-channel pipette	30–300 µL	0111-0300
8-channel pipette	50–1250 µL	0111-1250

3.3 Labware and Base Compatibility Strategy

@Robot Pro-6 does not require VECVERSE-custom labware. The workstation uses the @Pette Pro smart pipette as its pipetting module, and the pipette can support multiple tip consumables. The workstation deck can support different brands of tip racks, plates, reservoirs, and other containers through different labware bases or carriers.

Important notes:

1. Different labware brands and models may differ in footprint, height, well position, rim structure, and positioning reference.

2. Before any labware is used on @Robot Pro-6, confirm its matching base, software labware definition, and run parameters.

3. The current standard packing list includes one Youlai T200-R-CLS standard base and one box of Youlai T200-R-CLS tips.

4. Before placing a tip rack into its base, manually remove the tip rack lid. If the lid is not removed, it may interfere with the pipetting module.

5. If the customer needs to use another brand or special-format labware, contact VECVERSE for rapid base customization.

6. Unconfirmed labware or bases should not be used for automated operation, as this may cause tip pickup failure, well-position deviation, collision, leakage, or experiment failure.

7. For other brands or special-format labware, VECVERSE provides rapid customization service: response within 24 hours; after the customer provides the physical labware, the production lead time is 10 working days, excluding shipping time.

3.4 Standard Packing List

The tablet controller and cross calibration block are limited-time included items. The inclusion policy may change in the future. The actual delivered items are subject to the contract, quotation, or delivery list.

Item	Quantity
@Robot Pro-6 main unit	1
Tablet controller	1
Power adapter	1
Youlai T200-R-CLS standard base	1
Youlai T200-R-CLS tips	1 box
Cross calibration block	1
Warranty card	1
Certificate of conformity	1
User manual	1

4. Technical Specifications

Parameter	@Robot Pro-6
Main unit dimensions	495 × 410 × 440 mm, final external dimensions of the workstation main unit
Net weight	13.45 kg
Power supply	110–220 V, 0.2 A
Positioning accuracy	±0.05 mm
Travel range	X axis 350 mm, Y axis 300 mm, Z axis 200 mm
Effective working range	269 × 260 × 130 mm (L × W × H)
Maximum labware height	130 mm, including base
Deck position load	Maximum load per position < 1 kg
Total six-position load	≤ 2 kg recommended at 1000 mm/s; ≤ 3 kg at 200–600 mm/s
Deck configuration	Plates, waste containers, reservoirs, tip racks, used-tip containers, and other labware
Supported mounted pipette types	Single-channel / 8-channel, both available for sale
Number of mounted pipettes	Maximum 1 pipette at a time
Pipette installation method	X-axis quick-release base + single-channel/8-channel pipette clamp
Pipette part numbers	0110/0111 series
Supported pipette range	0.5–1250 µL when mounted on the workstation
Pipetting accuracy/repeatability	@Pette Pro handheld specifications may be used for the workstation-mounted state
Operating environment	0–40 °C, humidity <70%, non-condensing
Footprint	Approx. 0.2 m²
Maximum X-axis speed	1000 mm/s
Recommended X-axis speed	400–700 mm/s
Maximum Z-axis speed	180 mm/s
Recommended Z-axis speed	100 mm/s

5. Installation and First Use

5.1 Site Preparation

1. Select a flat, stable, dry laboratory bench or biosafety cabinet / clean bench.

2. Ensure sufficient surrounding space for labware, reagents, and waste.

3. Avoid strong vibration, strong airflow, strong magnetic fields, high humidity, and condensation.

4. Prepare compatible tips, plates, reservoirs, waste containers, and used-tip containers, and confirm that the corresponding bases match the software labware definitions. Remove the tip rack lid before placing the tip rack into the base.

5. Prepare the tablet interface or computer control software.

5.2 Unpacking Check

Check Item	Requirement
Outer packaging	No damage, water ingress, or severe compression
Main unit	No obvious deformation, looseness, or scratches
Tablet controller	Quantity 1, with no obvious damage to screen or buttons. This item is a limited-time included item and is subject to the delivery list.
Motion mechanism	No jamming, deformation, or obvious looseness
X-axis quick-release base	No foreign objects; locking structure intact
Pipette clamp	Complete appearance, no deformation, cracks, or obvious wear
@Pette Pro pipette	Model, range, and channel count match the current experiment protocol; appearance intact
Pipette connection cable	Cable undamaged, connectors not bent
Power cable	Cable undamaged, connectors not bent
Youlai T200-R-CLS standard base	Quantity 1, no deformation, cracks, or obvious wear
Youlai T200-R-CLS tips	Quantity 1 box, packaging intact
Cross calibration block	Quantity 1, appearance intact. This item is a limited-time included item and is subject to the delivery list.
Included documents	Warranty card, certificate of conformity, and manual complete
Labware	Matches the protocol and pipette specification
Labware base	Matches the brand/model of the tip rack, plate, reservoir, or other container used by the customer

5.3 Power-On and Main Unit Unlock

1. Place the workstation at the target location.

2. Confirm that the unpacking check has been completed and the work area is clear of foreign objects.

3. Connect the power supply.

4. When the main unit screen lights up, tap "Unlock Device and Home the Three Axes".

5. Wait until the X, Y, and Z axes finish homing.

During first power-on, the device must be unlocked and the X, Y, and Z axes must be homed on the main unit screen before any further operation. Before homing is complete, do not install or connect the pipette and do not initiate device connection or control from the tablet.

5.4 Install the Clamp and Pipette

Single-channel clamp

1. Open the clamp.

2. Insert the corresponding model of @Pette Pro pipette into the clamp.

3. Make sure the pipette is seated against the bottom, then close the clamp.

4. Place it onto the clamp base of the workstation and tighten the base locking lever.

5. Connect the pipette to the workstation using the pipette connection cable.

Multi-channel clamp

1. Loosen all locking levers and open the clamp completely.

2. Insert the corresponding model of @Pette Pro pipette into the clamp from the bottom up.

3. Draw the clamp inward and tighten the rear locking lever to preliminarily secure the pipette.

4. Tighten the side locking lever to make sure the pipette is firmly clamped.

5. Place it onto the clamp base of the workstation and tighten the base locking lever.

6. Connect the pipette to the workstation using the pipette connection cable.

5.5 Tablet Connection

1. Open the tablet interface.

2. On the Dashboard, connect to the workstation by QR code or IP.

3. If the workstation has not been connected to a network, configure the laboratory Wi-Fi through the network setup function.

4. After connection, confirm that the workstation model, address, and status are displayed normally.

Software connection entries include:

• Dashboard: view total experiments, online workstations, recent experiments, and workstation status.

• QR code connection: scan the QR code on the workstation screen for quick connection.

• IP connection: enter the IP address of the networked workstation to establish the control channel.

• Workstation network setup: enter the laboratory Wi-Fi name and password to configure the workstation network.

6. Calibration and Reset

6.1 Calibration Capability

@Robot Pro-6 supports vision positioning and cross calibration to reduce well-position deviation and collision risk. The current standard packing list includes one cross calibration block. The cross calibration block is a limited-time included item and may change in the future. Routine calibration should be performed with the cross calibration block.

Manual calibration should only be used when the cross calibration block is damaged, lost, or specifically requested by technical support.

6.2 When to Calibrate

• After first installation.

• After moving the workstation.

• After changing key labware types or deck configuration.

• When tip pickup/drop-off abnormality, well-position deviation, collision, or unstable repeat positioning occurs.

• After emergency stop, power loss, reboot, or when position is unreliable.

6.3 Cross Calibration Block Procedure

1. On the tablet, tap "Home > Settings > Calibration" to open "Device Calibration".

2. Confirm at the top that the workstation model is @Robot Pro-6.

3. Use a USB-C to USB-C cable to connect the cross calibration block to the USB-C port on the rear of the workstation.

4. On the "Device Calibration" screen, select the calibration module deck position. Positions A1–A6 are available. A4 is recommended for easier placement and observation.

5. Place the cross calibration block on the selected position according to the preview on the left side of the screen.

6. Tap "Start Calibration".

7. Wait until the workstation automatically completes calibration.

8. After calibration is complete, tap Back.

9. Perform a dry run or low-risk test to confirm that the motion path is collision-free.

Do not move the calibration block, labware, or workstation during calibration. Do not place hands inside the motion area. If calibration fails, check the calibration block connection, selected deck position, and placement orientation, then run calibration again.

7. Software Interface

7.1 Main Interface

The main tablet entries include:

Entry	Function
Dashboard	View workstation connection, total experiments, online workstations, recent experiments; supports QR/IP connection and new experiment creation
Experiment	Create, manage, import, export, and run experiment protocols
Settings	Network, display, firmware, calibration, About, and other maintenance items

7.2 Experiment Creation Wizard

Experiment creation typically includes:

1. Confirm workstation model.

2. Select experiment type from supported types.

3. Select a template, or choose custom creation.

4. Configure the deck: set positions, labware, and liquids.

5. Enter the experiment configuration page: complete volume, wells, groups, gradients, and pipetting parameters.

6. Save or run.

7.3 Experiment Types and Application Protocols

The tablet can provide preset templates and custom workflow capabilities. Application scenarios, default labware combinations, method notes, and validation boundaries for different experiment protocols are documented separately. This manual does not describe specific application scenarios.

7.4 Default A1–A6 Deck Layout

For general A1–A6 workstation templates, the common layout logic is:

Position	Typical Use
A1	Tip rack
A2	Reservoir
A3	Waste container / used-tip container
A4–A6	Working plate, plate, EP tube rack, or other labware

Different labware brands must use the corresponding base and software labware definition. Even if two items are the same labware type, such as 96-well plates or tip racks, their external dimensions and positioning references may differ by brand. Bases should not be mixed without confirmation.

Before placing a tip rack into its base, manually remove the tip rack lid. Do not run with a covered tip rack, as the lid may interfere with the pipetting module.

8. Custom Workflow

Custom workflow is used to freely arrange pipetting steps. Configurable capabilities include:

Configuration Item	Description
Protocol name	Name the experiment protocol
Pipette specification	10 µL, 100 µL, 200 µL, 300 µL, 1000 µL, 1250 µL, etc., limited by tip rack and pipette
Aspiration/dispense speed	Set aspiration and dispense speed
Aspiration/dispense position fine adjustment	Set height or offset for aspiration and dispense
Tip strategy	No tip change, change before each aspiration, change at the start of a step, etc.
Post-dispense mixing	Set mixing volume, speed, and cycle count
Labware exchange	Add plate/labware replacement steps into the workflow
Pause	Support manual continue or timed pause

9. Running an Experiment

9.1 Pre-Run Check

1. Confirm that the workstation is connected and status is normal.

2. Confirm that the pipette specification matches the experiment protocol configuration.

3. Confirm that the tip specification, brand/model, base, and software labware definition are consistent.

4. Confirm that the tip rack lid has been removed and the tip rack is placed in the matching base.

5. Confirm that plates, reservoirs, waste positions, and waste containers are placed on the correct deck positions and use matching bases.

6. Confirm that all liquid volumes meet protocol requirements.

7. Confirm that there are no hands, tools, packaging materials, or other foreign objects in the work area.

8. If the workstation has just been moved, emergency-stopped, powered off, or recovered from an abnormality, home or recalibrate first.

9.2 Execution Screen

The execution display includes:

Area	Content
Program name	Name of the current experiment or experiment protocol
Progress	Green progress bar and percentage
Deck visualization	Shows deck layout, labware, and trajectory animation
Run log	Shows action logs, time, and status
Settings entry	Allows entry to display-side settings and network settings

Run states include:

State	Meaning
Idle	Idle, waiting for task
Ready	Task received, ready to run
Running	Executing
Paused	Paused
Completed	Completed
Canceled	Canceled
Error	Error

9.3 Post-Run Handling

1. Wait until the interface shows completion or confirm that the task has been terminated.

2. Remove samples and plates.

3. Dispose of used tips and waste liquid.

4. Check the deck for leaks, residual liquid, or labware fragments.

5. Export or save the run record.

6. Clean the workstation exterior and deck according to laboratory procedures.

10. Troubleshooting

10.1 Common Issues

Issue	Possible Cause	Action
Workstation connection failed	Network not configured, incorrect IP, workstation not powered on	Check power, network, QR code/IP input
Workstation not found	Bluetooth or network unavailable	Confirm the workstation is powered on, move closer to the workstation, and search again
Pipette connection abnormal	Pipette not locked in place, connection cable not connected properly, or cable damaged	Stop the run, lock the pipette again, and check the pipette connection cable
Tip pickup failed	Tip rack position incorrect, incompatible tips, tip rack lid not removed, or abnormal Z height	Stop the run, check the tip rack, lid, and calibration
Tip tilted	Tip deformation, well-position deviation, abnormal pickup force	Replace the tip rack and recalibrate
Position abnormal after labware brand change	Base or software labware definition mismatch	Stop the run and confirm labware brand/model, base version, and software definition
Leakage/dripping	Unsuitable parameters, poor tip seal, liquid property changes	Adjust speed, volume, aspiration/dispense height, or replace tips
Collision/stall	Labware placed incorrectly, foreign object entered, coordinate abnormality	Trigger emergency stop, manually confirm, home axes, and retest
Scan failed	Barcode orientation, lighting, or scanner configuration issue	Adjust barcode orientation and check scanner settings

10.2 Waiting for Intervention

When an operation fails but can be recovered, the system prompts for manual handling: first check the deck, labware, pipette, and liquid status, then follow the interface prompts. If collision, leakage, labware displacement, or unreliable position occurs, stop the run and re-confirm the safety state.

10.3 Remote Service and Logs

Remote service and logs are used for after-sales diagnostics:

• Structured logs: record axis position, current, actions, time, experiment protocol, and error codes.

• Automatic abnormality reporting: uploads run context when an error occurs.

• Remote parameter adjustment: Z height, aspiration speed, dispense speed, etc.

• Software/firmware upgrade: performed under technical support guidance.

• Workstation status monitoring: view device ID, network, firmware, and run status.

11. Cleaning and Maintenance

11.1 Daily Cleaning

1. Stop any running task and ensure that the workstation has stopped moving.

2. Remove samples, plates, tip racks, and waste.

3. Use a lint-free cloth to remove liquid residue from the deck.

4. Wipe the exterior surface with a compatible cleaning agent according to laboratory procedures.

5. Do not spray liquid directly onto electrical interfaces, motion mechanisms, or inside the pipette.

11.2 Periodic Checks

Item	Frequency	Check
Deck cleaning	After each experiment	No liquid residue, no labware fragments
Tip rack and waste position	Before and after each experiment	Tips sufficient; waste position not full
Labware bases	Whenever labware brand or model changes	Base matches labware brand/model and software definition
Pipette installation	Before each experiment	Locked in place; connection cable connected properly
Axis motion	Weekly or after abnormality	No abnormal noise, jamming, or obvious offset
Calibration status	After moving workstation or abnormality	Recalibrate if necessary
Logs and software version	Monthly or during maintenance	Record software, firmware, and error logs

12. Appendix

12.1 Glossary

Term	Description
Experiment protocol	A workflow that can be created, saved, imported, exported, and executed
Deck	Working area for placing labware and plates
Slot / deck position	Fixed labware position on the deck
Labware	Plates, tip racks, reservoirs, waste containers, and other consumables
Labware base / carrier	Positioning part used to secure different labware brands to workstation deck positions
Tip rack	Labware that holds tips; the lid must be removed before use
Waste container	Labware that collects waste liquid
Used-tip container	Labware that collects used tips
Waste position	Fixed deck position for the waste container or used-tip container
Homing	Motion axes returning to reference positions