How Laboratory Automation Tackles the Big Big Data Challenge

Related Vendors

DÜPERTHAL Sicherheitstechnik GmbH & Co. KG

Elementar Analysensysteme GmbH

TRM Filter d.o.o.

DECHEMA Ausstellungs-GmbH

The goal of the initiative is seamless integration of lab equipment and IT systems made by different manufacturers based on uniform communication interfaces, device drivers and lab consum- ables. Highly-specialized experts are assigned by members of the non-profit consortium to technical working groups for joint development of authoritative standards.

According to information provided by Fraunhofer IPA (Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation) which is also a member of the SiLA consortium, device and component manufacturers must have their products SiLA certified. The Institute offers a consultancy service as well as subsequent automatic conformity testing and certification.

Introducing the iLAB Platform

Some initial suppliers such as Infoteam Software already market lab automation software platforms which come with interfaces based on existing standards and can be modified to suit individual needs. Institutes including Fraunhofer IPA apply the knowledge gained through their involvement in SiLA to tailored lab IT. According to the supplier, the iLAB platform is built around the iLAB Service Host and a high-performance database. The system features an open device integration module and runs standardized interface protocols (SiLA, OPC, u.a.). The platform accommodates other analysis or experiment planning software tools.

A Software Platform for Bio–Processes

If needed, the platform can be integrated into higher-level systems via a standardized data interface (e.g. HL7, ASTM, SiLA Data Exchange Standard). Provision has also been made for control feedback loops in ongoing processes to support online process optimization.

The experiment management hierarchy on the platform's user interface has been designed specifically to facilitate data exchange in interdisciplinary teams or alternating projects. Users have the option of working simultaneously on different aspects of a project and they can consolidate and coordinate data from various sources. The supplier claims that the device-independent software platform is also suitable for use in bioprocess development.

(ID:43249799)