Robotics Labs
Automation for the Modern Laboratory
3M and Robotics Labs partnered with ManGo Product Design to develop a compact and efficient version of their large automated pipetting robot. The goal was to create a desktop solution that maintained full functionality while reducing size and cost for smaller laboratories. The result is the InoBot S, a high-precision machine that automates time-consuming laboratory processes with remarkable accuracy. By combining mechatronic innovation, design for manufacturing and close collaboration with Robotics Labs’s in-house programmers.
Engineering a Compact Powerhouse
ManGo automated a complete workflow typically done by lab technicians, including dispensing PetriFilms, handling pipette tips, diluting and transferring fluids, applying labels and organizing samples. Each of these actions required high-precision engineering. Off-the-shelf components were mostly too large or costly, so ManGo engineered custom mechanisms from scratch, including XYZ positioning systems, label applicators and moving platforms. Every subsystem was optimized for speed, reliability and ease of assembly. The engineering process combined technical creativity with rigorous testing to ensure consistent performance in demanding laboratory settings.
Collaborative Engineering Under Pressure
The development timeline to deliver the first working prototype was just six months. To meet this challenge, ManGo assigned three mechanical engineers to work directly on-site at Robotics Labs. This hands-on collaboration allowed rapid decision making and real-time optimization of mechanical and software integration. The team designed and engineered over 3.000 components and achieved a fully functional prototype within the deadline. Despite the complexity of the project, the bill of materials ended up 50 percent lower than initially targeted, proving that advanced automation can also be cost-efficient.
Precision, Efficiency, and Affordability Combined
The InoBot S represents a major advancement in laboratory automation. It provides consistent results, reduces manual work, and offers an affordable solution for smaller labs. The collaboration between Tecnic and ManGo Product Design delivered a compact machine that retains industrial-grade performance. The project demonstrates how smart mechanical engineering, teamwork, and design for manufacturing can create innovation that transforms laboratory workflows and accessibility.
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