title: First experiences with semi-autonomous robotic harvesting of protein crystals.
abstract: The demonstration unit of the Universal Micromanipulation Robot (UMR) capable of semi-autonomous protein crystal harvesting has been tested and evaluated by independent users. We report the status and capabilities of the present unit scheduled for deployment in a high-throughput protein crystallization center. We discuss operational aspects as well as novel features such as micro-crystal handling and drip-cryoprotection, and we extrapolate towards the design of a fully autonomous, integrated system capable of reliable crystal harvesting. The positive to enthusiastic feedback from the participants in an evaluation workshop indicates that genuine demand exists and the effort and resources to develop autonomous protein crystal harvesting robotics are justified.
authors: Square One Systems Design, Jackson, WY 83002, USA.
authors: Robert
authors: R
authors: Viola
authors: Jace
authors: J
authors: Walsh
authors: Alex
authors: A
authors: Melka
authors: Wesley
authors: W
authors: Womack
authors: Sean
authors: S
authors: Murphy
authors: Alan
authors: A
authors: Riboldi-Tunnicliffe
authors: Bernhard
authors: B
authors: Rupp
mesh_terms: D057205:Automation, Laboratory / Q000295:instrumentation*; D003461:Crystallography / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D006804:Ergonomics; D006801:Humans; D008904:Miniaturization; D011506:Proteins / Q000737:chemistry*; D012371:Robotics
chemical_list: D011506:Proteins