Tecan Cavro Omni Liquid Handling Robotic Arm
| Brand | Tecan Cavro |
|---|---|
| Origin | Malaysia |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Cavro Omni |
| Quotation | Upon Request |
| Deck Capacity | User-Configurable |
| Pipetting Accuracy | <1% CV |
| Pipetting Volume Range | 1 µL – 50 mL |
| Sample Throughput | User-Configurable |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 750 mm × 950 mm × 1450 mm |
Overview
The Tecan Cavro Omni Liquid Handling Robotic Arm is a high-precision, modular automation platform engineered for integration into laboratory liquid handling workflows requiring flexibility, repeatability, and robust mechanical performance. Built upon a closed-loop positioning architecture, the Omni arm delivers sub-millimeter positional accuracy across its X-, Y-, and Z-axes—enabling reliable execution of complex pipetting, plate handling, and module coordination tasks. Its core design follows OEM-grade engineering principles, supporting seamless integration into larger automated systems such as assay workstations, diagnostic platforms, or high-throughput screening suites. Unlike fixed-function liquid handlers, the Omni platform operates as a programmable motion engine: it does not perform assays autonomously but serves as the physical actuation backbone for custom-developed protocols, making it especially valuable for instrument manufacturers and system integrators developing proprietary analytical or clinical workflows.
Key Features
- Modular mechanical architecture with user-selectable axis configurations: standard X-axis travel options (500 mm, 750 mm, 1250 mm), Y-axis (150 mm or 300 mm), and Z-axis (210 mm standard; customizable)
- Three Z-axis configuration options: single-Z (for standard tip-based or needle-based dispensing), dual-Z (independent vertical control for simultaneous multi-mode operation), and universal-Z (supports interchangeable end-effectors including 8-channel heads, pneumatic ADP modules, grippers, and single probes)
- High-accuracy liquid handling with ≤1% coefficient of variation (CV) across the full 1 µL–50 mL volume range, validated per ISO 8655 standards for piston-operated volumetric apparatus
- Integrated pneumatic ADP (Advanced Dispensing Pump) module capable of precise microdispensing up to 1 mL, featuring real-time tip presence detection, liquid level sensing, and error recovery logic compliant with IEC 61508 functional safety guidelines
- Omni Flex configuration option enables turnkey system deployment—including pre-integrated gripper, 8-channel head, and ADP—reducing time-to-validation for regulated environments
- Industrial-grade aluminum frame with powder-coated silver-gray finish (custom RAL colors available); designed for long-term stability under continuous operation in Class 10,000 cleanroom-compatible lab environments
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Cavro Omni accommodates a broad spectrum of laboratory consumables without mechanical adaptation: ANSI/SLAS-format microplates (96-, 384-, and 1536-well), tube racks (10–16 mm diameter), deep-well plates, reservoirs, and custom fixtures. Its open API and deterministic motion control allow protocol-level compliance with GLP, GMP, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed with validated software layers (e.g., Tecan FluentControl or third-party LIMS-integrated orchestration engines). Mechanical design conforms to ISO 13857 (safety distances) and IEC 61000-6-2/6-3 (EMC immunity/emissions), ensuring safe co-location with sensitive analytical instrumentation.
Software & Data Management
The Omni platform communicates via RS-232, USB, or Ethernet using Tecan’s standardized ASCII command protocol—enabling direct integration with Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or C# applications. Optional FluentControl software provides graphical workflow builder, audit trail logging, electronic signature support, and export of raw motion logs in CSV/JSON format. All position commands and sensor-triggered events (e.g., tip detection, stall detection) are timestamped with microsecond resolution, supporting retrospective root-cause analysis during QA investigations. Data integrity is maintained through write-once filesystem partitioning and SHA-256 hash verification of executed script binaries.
Applications
- OEM integration into IVD analyzers requiring precise reagent dispensing and sample routing
- Automated nucleic acid extraction and library prep systems for NGS workflows
- Cell culture automation including media exchange, passaging, and plate seeding
- Compound management systems for pharmaceutical screening libraries
- Custom assay development platforms where proprietary chemistries require non-standard liquid handling sequences
- Calibration and QC station automation for reference material distribution and dilution series generation
FAQ
Is the Cavro Omni compatible with third-party liquid handling peripherals?
Yes—the Omni supports industry-standard mounting interfaces (ISO 9409-1-50-4-M6) and TTL/RS-485 signaling for synchronization with external pumps, valves, heaters, and detectors.
What level of validation documentation is provided?
Tecan supplies Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) reports, mechanical calibration certificates, and IQ/OQ protocol templates aligned with ASTM E2500 and EU Annex 11 expectations.
Can the Omni operate in a nitrogen-purged environment?
Yes—its brushless DC motors and sealed linear guides are rated for inert gas atmospheres; optional IP54-rated enclosure kits are available for enhanced environmental protection.
Does the system support dynamic tip tracking during aspiration?
When paired with the ADP module and optional capacitive liquid level sensor, real-time meniscus detection and adaptive aspiration speed adjustment are fully supported.
What is the mean time between failures (MTBF) under continuous operation?
Based on field data from >2,000 installed units, MTBF exceeds 12,000 hours at 24/7 duty cycle with scheduled preventive maintenance every 6 months.
