Introduction
Scispot LIMS offers seamless integration with Tecan robots, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in CLIA lab workflows. This article outlines the integration process, supported file types, and provides examples for common laboratory procedures.
Integration Approach
1. File-based Handling (Initial Phase):
- Implement a manual file export/import process between Scispot LIMS and Tecan instruments.
- This allows for immediate integration while minimizing complexity.
2. Automation with Custom Python Scripts (Advanced Phase):
- Develop custom Python scripts to automate file transfers and processing.
- Reduces manual intervention and potential errors.
Supported File Types:
- CSV (Comma-Separated Values)
- Excel spreadsheets (.xlsx, .xls)
- JSON
- XML (Extensible Markup Language)
Tecan Fluent Control Software Integration
- Primary interface for controlling Tecan Fluent liquid handlers.
- Worklists: Create custom worklists or import from Scispot using supported file formats (e.g., CSV).
- Protocols: Manage within Fluent Control Software; export/import as JSON or XML files for external management.
Example Workflows
1. Plasma Transfer:
- Scispot LIMS Output: 96-well plate layout file
- Tecan Input: 96-well plate layout file
- Tecan Output: CSV plasma transfer result file
- Scispot LIMS Input: CSV plasma transfer result file
Process:
a. Export plate layout from Scispot LIMS.
b. Import layout into Tecan Fluent Control Software.
c. Execute plasma transfer on Tecan robot.
d. Export results as CSV from Tecan.
e. Import results into Scispot LIMS for analysis and tracking.
2. Dilution:
- Scispot LIMS Output: 96-well plate layout file
- Tecan Input: 96-well plate layout file
- Tecan Output: CSV dilution result file
- Scispot LIMS Input: CSV dilution result file
Process:
a. Export plate layout with dilution factors from Scispot LIMS.
b. Import layout into Tecan Fluent Control Software.
c. Perform dilutions using Tecan robot.
d. Export dilution results as CSV from Tecan.
e. Import results into Scispot LIMS for verification and downstream processes.
3. Immunoassay Processing:
- Scispot LIMS Output: 96-well Luminex plate layout
- Tecan Input: 96-well Luminex plate layout
- Tecan Output:
a) Tecan 780 batch record results file (CSV)
b) Reagent metadata from Immunoassay Processing steps
- Scispot LIMS Input:
a) Tecan 780 batch record results file (CSV)
b) Reagent metadata from Immunoassay Processing steps
Process:
a. Export Luminex plate layout from Scispot LIMS.
b. Import layout into Tecan Fluent Control Software.
c. Execute immunoassay protocol on Tecan robot.
d. Export batch record results and reagent metadata from Tecan.
e. Import results and metadata into Scispot LIMS for analysis and quality control.