Schmidt + Haensch AutoDosage Automated Liquid Dispensing and Weighing System

Overview

The Schmidt + Haensch AutoDosage is a precision-engineered automated liquid dispensing and gravimetric dosing system designed for high-integrity sample preparation in regulated and research-intensive laboratory environments. Built upon a dual-mode operational principle—combining volumetric delivery control with real-time gravimetric feedback—the AutoDosage ensures traceable, repeatable, and documentation-compliant solution preparation. Unlike purely volumetric dispensers, the system integrates a high-stability digital balance via RS-232 interface to continuously monitor mass gain during dispensing, enabling closed-loop correction of flow rate and endpoint determination based on target mass. This hybrid approach delivers superior accuracy in applications where density variation, temperature-induced viscosity shifts, or container wall adhesion would compromise volumetric-only methods. The system is purpose-built for routine preparation of standards, buffers, reagents, and dilutions across quality control, method development, and analytical validation workflows.

Key Features

• Dual-mode dosing: Supports both mass-based (gravimetric) and volume-based (volumetric) dispensing protocols—user-selectable per step within a single recipe.
• Multi-liquid capability: Simultaneous handling of up to four independent liquid streams via independently controlled solenoid valves and calibrated nozzles optimized for coarse, medium, or fine dispensing resolution.
• High-precision weighing integration: Compatible with certified digital balances offering 0.01 g or 0.1 g readability and selectable maximum capacities (610 g, 1500 g, or 2200 g), mounted on a vertically adjustable, vibration-damped support plate.
• Intuitive local control: Integrated controller housing features a backlit LCD display and sealed membrane keypad for on-device recipe selection, manual override, and status monitoring—including visual workflow signaling (red = active dispensing; green = completed).
• Scalable recipe management: Stores up to 70 user-defined formulations, each supporting multi-step sequences with configurable pause points, intermediate mixing commands, and conditional logic (e.g., “dispense until target mass ±0.05 g is reached”).
• Modular hardware architecture: Standardized mounting baseplate allows seamless integration with third-party labware (glass or plastic vessels, ISO-standard bottle holders, custom racks) and optional accessories including drip trays, fume hood adapters, and barcode-triggered execution modules.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AutoDosage accommodates a broad range of liquid chemistries—including aqueous buffers, organic solvents (e.g., methanol, acetonitrile), viscous solutions (up to 500 mPa·s), and mildly corrosive reagents—when configured with chemically resistant valve seals (e.g., FKM or PTFE-lined components). All wetted parts comply with USP Class VI and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when operated with validated software configurations. The system supports GLP/GMP-aligned documentation practices through timestamped, user-attributed audit logs exported in CSV or XML format. It meets essential elements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 (clause 7.7 on sampling and preparation) and ASTM E2656–21 (Standard Guide for Automated Liquid Handling Systems), and is routinely deployed in laboratories undergoing regulatory inspections by EMA, FDA, and Health Canada.

Software & Data Management

The AutoDosage is operated via Windows-based formulation software that provides full lifecycle recipe management—from creation and simulation to version-controlled deployment and electronic signature-enabled approval. Each protocol includes metadata fields for analyst ID, calibration certificate reference, balance serial number, and environmental conditions (optional external sensor input). The software generates immutable, tamper-evident audit trails compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 Subpart B (electronic records and signatures), including operator login/logout timestamps, parameter change history, and dispensing event logs with mass/time stamps at 100 ms intervals. Raw data files are stored in vendor-neutral formats (CSV, JSON) and can be imported into LIMS or ELN platforms via REST API or scheduled file transfer.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC labs: Preparation of HPLC mobile phase gradients, dissolution media, and reference standard solutions under GMP Annex 15 and ICH Q2(R2) validation guidelines.
• Food & beverage testing: Accurate formulation of sugar calibration standards (Brix), acid titration matrices, and flavor dilution series for sensory analysis per ISO 8586 and AOAC 995.12.
• Chemical R&D: Reproducible synthesis of catalyst precursor solutions, polymerization initiators, and electrolyte blends for battery material characterization.
• Clinical diagnostics: Automated preparation of calibrators and controls for immunoassays, ensuring consistency across multi-site studies aligned with CLIA and ISO 15189 requirements.
• Academic core facilities: High-throughput buffer exchange for protein purification workflows and standardized dilution series for enzyme kinetics assays (Michaelis–Menten modeling).

FAQ

What types of balances are compatible with the AutoDosage system?

The system supports industry-standard RS-232–enabled analytical and precision balances from METTLER TOLEDO, Sartorius, and Shimadzu, provided they offer stable mass output at ≥10 Hz update rate and support ASCII-based weight transmission protocols.
Can the AutoDosage perform sequential additions with mixing between steps?

Yes—each recipe step may include programmable agitation commands (via optional external stirrer interface) and defined hold times before proceeding to the next dispensing event.
Is remote operation or integration with LIMS possible?

Full remote control and status polling are supported via TCP/IP (optional Ethernet module); LIMS integration is achieved through file-based data exchange or RESTful API endpoints for recipe push and result pull.
How is calibration verified and documented?

Balance calibration is performed externally using NIST-traceable weights; the AutoDosage software logs calibration dates, operator IDs, and deviation reports, and enforces recalibration reminders based on user-defined frequency thresholds.
Does the system support hazardous or volatile solvents?

When equipped with explosion-proof solenoid valves (ATEX-certified option) and inert gas purging capability, the AutoDosage can safely handle Class I, Division 2 flammable liquids in accordance with NFPA 30 and IEC 60079 standards.