The SiLA 2 Manager for rapid device integration and workflow automation

Abstract

Rapid integration of laboratory devices into automated workflows remains an arduous and time-consuming process. A lack of interface standardization among hardware vendors leads to inflexible device setups and highly customized and expensive software solutions. Thus, practical integration capabilities of existing laboratory control systems (LCS) are insufficient when it comes to developing small, rapid and cost-efficient automation solutions. The increasing importance of data integrity as well as software system and workflow documentation, due to cGMP regulations, is calling for structured, reliable and transparent middleware solutions. The SiLA 2 Manager uses the emerging SiLA 2 standard and provides a lean and extendable framework for device discovery, management, and workflow design, thereby bridging the gap between the physical device and higher software levels. This Internet of Things (IoT) application enables immediate control of SiLA 2 devices and ensures user-friendly real-time data collection and storage.

Keywords

• Laboratory automation
• Device integration
• SiLA2
• Data integrity
• Biotechnology
• Life sciences