FAQ

A LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is software that manages laboratory samples, workflows, and associated data in a centralised digital system. A LIMS laboratory information management platform improves efficiency, traceability, and accuracy by automating data capture, tracking samples, and ensuring consistent workflow execution across the LIMS lab system.

A LIMS lab system helps laboratories control and optimise operations by providing structured workflow management and secure data handling. It enables automated sample tracking, ensures standardised processes, and supports compliance with regulatory requirements through audit trails and data integrity controls.

For Astech clients using laboratory automation, LIMS integration provides additional benefits:

• Automated data transfer from instruments and automation platforms, reducing manual entry errors
• Full traceability of samples and test results, supporting regulatory compliance
• Improved workflow efficiency, enabling higher throughput and reduced turnaround times
• Centralised data management, allowing easier reporting, analysis, and audit readiness
• Scalable infrastructure, supporting growing automation and testing demands

By integrating a LIMS laboratory information management system with automated laboratory equipment, laboratories can improve operational efficiency, maintain data integrity, and support compliant, scalable automation workflows.

A collaborative robot is a robot designed to work safely alongside humans in a shared workspace, assisting with repetitive or precise tasks. Collaborative robots use sensors, force limitation, and safety controls to prevent injury while improving accuracy, productivity, and consistency across laboratory, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical automation workflows.

Collaborative robots are becoming increasingly popular because they combine safety, flexibility, and efficiency. Unlike traditional industrial robots, they are designed with built-in safety features such as collision detection and force limits, allowing them to operate safely near human operators.

Key benefits of collaborative robots include:

• Improved workplace safety through integrated sensors and safety protocols
• High precision and repeatability for consistent task execution
• Flexible automation that can be easily adapted to different workflows
• Reduced manual workload by automating repetitive or labour-intensive tasks
• Faster return on investment due to lower integration complexity and cost

Collaborative robots are widely used in industries including pharmaceutical, scientific research, manufacturing, and laboratory automation, where they support reliable, efficient, and scalable automation.

Learn more about Astech’s collaborative robot integration solutions here: https://astechprojects.co.uk/products

Cobots, short for collaborative robots, are robots designed to safely work alongside human operators. In the UK, adoption of cobots is increasing rapidly in laboratories and regulated industries because they provide flexible automation, improve safety, and automate repetitive tasks while maintaining precision, consistency, and efficiency without replacing human expertise.

The top benefits of cobots include:

• Improved productivity through automation of repetitive tasks
• Enhanced safety with built-in sensors and force limitation
• Consistent and repeatable performance for reliable results
• Flexible integration into existing laboratory workflows
• Reduced operational costs over time

Cobots are particularly valuable in laboratory automation environments where precision, repeatability, and workflow efficiency are essential.

Read more about cobots and their role in laboratory automation on Astech’s blog: https://astechprojects.co.uk/resources/what-are-cobots