[QueenB Co., Ltd.]
Automate experiments with 3D printers and robotic arms. Tohoku University begins joint research on lab automation with QueenB Co., Ltd., a startup born from Tohoku University.
*View in browser* *QueenB Co., Ltd.*
Press release: July 1, 2024
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Automate experiments with 3D printers and robotic arms. Tohoku University begins joint research on lab automation with QueenB Co., Ltd., a startup born from Tohoku University.
*Automate experiments with 3D printers and robot arms. Tohoku University begins joint research on lab automation with QueenB Co., Ltd., a startup born out of Tohoku University*
[Summary of presentation]
– *QueenB Co., Ltd.*, a Tohoku University student startup*, and *Tohoku University Frontier Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Sciences* are *
We have started joint research* in the field of laboratory automation. – Utilizes 3D printers and robot arms to automate repetitive and simple tasks in experiments*
. We aim to create innovations that accelerate research and development by leveraging the awareness and agile development system that only students can have.
– We aim to introduce laboratory automation to many* academic institutions, research institutes, and corporate laboratories that have not been introduced before*.
【overview】
*Researchers spend most of their research time on repetitive, simple tasks* This is said to be a major issue that slows down innovation. In order to overcome this issue, pharmaceutical companies are currently taking steps to overcome this issue.*
This is “Lab Automation”*, which is the automation of experiments using robotics technology. However, current solutions suffer from price and flexibility issues.
QueenB Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Sendai City, Miyagi
Prefecture/Representative Director and CEO: Kazuki Nemoto), a startup started by Tohoku University students, and Tohoku University Frontier Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Sciences (Location: Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture/Director: Toshiyuki Hayase) ) has started joint research in the field of laboratory automation. *
The joint research aims to realize inexpensive and flexible lab automation using 3D printers and robotic arms*
. We will tackle untested issues such as optimizing robot arm control, 3D model structure, strength, and material selection. Tohoku University’s volunteer student group LaboRobo (Representative: Masaya Inagawa) will also be involved in the development. We aim to design future research and development by utilizing the insights that students at the forefront of experiments can provide, and to introduce laboratory automation at many academic institutions, research institutes, and corporate research institutes.
[Detailed explanation]
* Research background *
*Lab automation is a technology that automates part or all of an experimental process*
is. This is expected to reduce human errors, improve work efficiency, and ensure data consistency. For example, *pipetting*
Repetitive tasks such as measuring a small amount of liquid using a micropipette and stirring a solution are performed using a robotic arm.
This can be done with high precision using automated systems*.
However, there are several challenges to the widespread adoption of laboratory automation. Current laboratory automation systems are expensive and can often only be implemented in large-scale
laboratories. Therefore, it is difficult to introduce it in small and medium-sized laboratories with limited funds and space, and this is a barrier to improving research efficiency and reproducibility. * Against this background, there is a need for more flexible and inexpensive laboratory automation systems. *
*This initiative*
The focus here is on robotic arms and 3D printing technology. Today’s robot arms are inexpensive and compact, and when properly controlled, can perform many tasks. In addition, 3D printers can create parts with a variety of shapes at low cost, so by using them as part of lab automation, you can enjoy the benefits of automation while reducing capital investment.
. However, with attachments using such robot arms and 3D printers, issues such as control optimization, 3D model structure, strength, and material selection have not been verified.
* The purpose of this joint research is to evaluate the impact of the shape and material of attachments created with 3D printers on the efficiency and accuracy of experimental work. *
We will also consider optimizing the motion accuracy and control of robot arms, with the aim of gaining knowledge for realizing
inexpensive and flexible laboratory automation.
* the next deployment *
If this joint research advances research into the optimization of robot arm control and the structure, strength, and materials of 3D models, lab automation will become available in many academic institutions, research institutes, corporate research institutes, etc. that were not previously possible. I believe that this will come true. this is,*
This will lead to the promotion of research and development not only in Japan but all over the world. *
[Comment from Kazuki Nemoto, CEO of QueenB Co., Ltd.]
From the time we started as a project to becoming a corporation, we have worked hard to solve problems in the research society. As part of this effort, I am very happy to be able to conduct joint research on research automation with Tohoku University, with which I and other members of our company have deep ties.
I would like to express my deep gratitude to the professors and everyone at Tohoku University who have been with me this time. We would like to carry out our mission of “supporting human knowledge”*. *If you are interested in our company, please feel free to contact us. *
[Contact information]
(Regarding research)
Tohoku University Interdisciplinary Science Frontier Research Institute Professor Takaaki Tomai
TEL: 022-217-5630
Email: takaaki.tomai.e6@tohoku.ac.jp
QueenB Co., Ltd.
Representative Director Kazuki Nemoto
Email：k-nemoto@queeen-b.com
Website: https://queeen-b.com
(Regarding reporting)
Tohoku University Frontier Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Sciences Planning Department
Specially Appointed Associate Professor Hideaki Fujiwara
TEL: 022-795-5259
Email: hideaki@fris.tohoku.ac.jp