LightPick for tube picking

Preparing the right samples for the next step

Many laboratory workflows start by collecting a specific set of samples from one or more storage racks. Those tubes need to be selected correctly before they can move on to analysis, processing or another workstation.

LightPick projects a clear marker onto the required tube position. The operator can work directly at the rack, while the LIMS remains in control of the picking order and the existing racks, barcodes and procedures remain in use.

A different approach to tube picking

In a fully manual workflow, the operator finds each position using coordinates on a screen or printed list. Dense racks and longer picklists make that repeated translation difficult to verify at a glance.

Semi-automated tube pickers, such as the Ziath Mohawk, use a mechanical system to raise selected tubes from the rack. This solves the coordinate-matching problem, but introduces dedicated moving hardware and a separate software-controlled picking step.

LightPick leaves the tube and rack in place and guides the operator with projection instead. This makes the system quick to use at the bench, removes moving parts from the picking mechanism and keeps software interaction to a minimum. The simpler hardware also provides a lower-cost route to guided picking, with LIMS integration built around the existing workflow.

Typical workflow

1. Picking operations are prepared in the LIMS, and sent to the LightPick software.
2. The operator places a rack on the LightPick device.
3. LightPick lights up the tubes to pick.
4. The operator picks the indicated tubes from the rack, and places the next one.
5. Scanned racks and indicated actions are logged and sent to the LIMS.
6. When picking is complete, the newly created rack is scanned and used in subsequent workflow steps.

What LightPick adds

Related applications and tools

System and integration

The same LightPick hardware can be used for both tube picking and pipetting guidance.

The LightPick system consists of:

• A projection stand with a fixture for plates or racks
• A projector optimized for close-range projection
• LightPick software

A standard PC and barcode scanner are provided by the lab.

LightPick connects to a LIMS using a simple API or file-based interface. Integration is intentionally lightweight: the LIMS remains in control of the workflow, while LightPick handles guidance at the bench.

Technical specifications

Footprint

Approximately 40 × 40 cm

Host computer

Windows PC

Connections

One free USB port and one free HDMI port

Tested rack types

FluidX racks

Other formats

Projection geometry and the four-edge fixture can be configured for Micronic and other standard or custom formats. Custom configurations are available on request.

LightPick workstation layout.

Pricing

One LightPick hardware setup can be used for both tube picking and pipetting. The hardware is purchased once; software and support are licensed separately for each application.