ILAS4000 Bacto Robot
ILAS4000 Bacto Automation Robot
Automated Milk Sample Handling for Bacteria Testing Laboratories
The Motion Design ILAS4000 Bacto Robot is an advanced sample handling automation system designed for dairy laboratories performing bacteria enumeration. Developed to integrate seamlessly with analysers such as the Bentley BactoCount and FOSS BactoScan, the system automates sample identification, mixing, and presentation within a controlled chilled environment.
By standardising the sample preparation process, the ILAS4000 improves testing consistency, protects sample integrity, and reduces manual handling in high-throughput milk testing workflows.
Key Features
- End-to-End Sample Preparation Automation
Automates identification, mixing, decapping, and presentation to the analyser. - RFID Sample Identification & Tracking
Each vial is scanned and tracked using its unique ID. - Chilled Handling Environment (~4°C)
Maintains sample condition and prevents bacterial variation before testing. - Automated Vial Handling
Robotic system manages picking, positioning, and return of vials. - Multi-Tray Capacity
Supports up to four trays for continuous operation. - Live System Monitoring
Displays vial information, status, and progress in real time. - Seamless Integration with Bacteria Analysers
Fully compatible with Bentley and FOSS systems.
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System Overview
The ILAS4000 automates the full sample preparation workflow for bacteria testing. Samples are loaded into trays and stored within a temperature-controlled environment until processing.
Each vial is identified via RFID, ensuring full traceability throughout the workflow. The machine performs controlled inversion mixing to ensure a homogeneous sub-sample, before decapping and presenting each vial to the analyser in a consistent and repeatable sequence. After analysis, vials are recapped and returned to their original tray positions.
Originally developed by Intellitech Automation (now under the Motion Design brand) ILAS4000 delivers a standardised and reliable pre-analytical process, reducing variability associated with manual handling. The system is simple to operate, with minimal training required, and follows a strict, repeatable procedure that eliminates the risk of human error.
Key Benefits
- Improved Test Consistency
Repeatable sample mixing and handling reduce variability in bacteria testing results. - Preserves Sample Integrity
Chilled environment maintains stable conditions prior to analysis. - Reduced Manual Handling
Minimises repetitive tasks, freeing technicians for higher-value work. - Supports High Throughput
Designed for laboratories processing large volumes of milk samples. - Efficient Operation
One operator can oversee multiple systems simultaneously.
Sample Integrity & Quality Assurance
Maintaining sample integrity is critical for accurate bacteria enumeration. The ILAS4000 supports this by:
- Storing samples within a chilled, controlled environment
- Minimising delays between loading and testing
- Delivering uniform mixing across all samples
- Providing traceability through RFID identification
- Reducing handling-related contamination risk
This supports more dependable test results and greater confidence in laboratory data.
How It Helps Your Laboratory
- Streamlines Workflow
Load up to four trays for continuous processing. - Reduces Operator Involvement
Staff only need to load, unload, and monitor the system. - Improves Throughput Efficiency
Keeps samples moving through the testing process. - Delivers Consistent Handling
Every sample follows the same controlled process.
Ideal Applications
- Dairy herd testing laboratories
- Milk quality testing facilities
- DHI laboratories
- High-throughput bacteria testing environments
Technical Information
Throughput | 200 vials per hour |
Vial capacity | Holds 140+ vials depending on tray specificaton |
Vials | Can be customised to fit a variety of vial and cap types |
Floor space requirements | 2708W x 2560D mm |
Compressed air supply | > 6 bar, clean and oil-free |
Air Consumption | Average 13 litres/minute, peak 25 litres/minute |
Power supply | Power: 220 - 240 VAC 50 - 60 Hz 10A |
Operating Temperature | 4°C ± 1°C (configurable) |
Dimensions | 1860 x 1354 x 1280 mm (excluding monitor) |
Weight | 650 kg |
Standards | CE certified to the applicable (Electromagnetic Compatibility), AS/NZS 4024:2014, IEC60204-1:2016, ISO 13849-1:2015, AS 4024.3302:2017, Regulation 2023/1230/EU |
Note: Specifications above subject to change without prior notice
