Storage#

A storage machine is defined as a machine whose primary feature is

  • storage of materials (e.g. wellplates, tipracks, tubes, …) with some form of automatable feature.

Examples of this simplest form of a storage machine include:

However, this purposefully broad definition means most storage machines also include other features such as:

  • automated material retrieval (e.g. Cytomat™ 2 Hotel Automated Storage)

  • heating (e.g. “incubators”)

  • active cooling (e.g. “fridges” and “freezers”)

  • shaking (e.g. “incubator shakers”)

  • barcode scanning (1D and/or 2D barcodes)

Note: The difference between a storage machine and a "plate hotel"

Across biowetlab automation there are many terms that do not have a standardised definition, leading to confusion and misunderstandings when automators communicate.

The term plate hotel is one of them. We can differentiate between passive storage systems (e.g. shelves) and active storage systems (e.g. automated retrieval system or an opening tray.)

In PLR, passive systems are not considered machines, they are just labware/Resources. For example, a PlateCarrier can be considered a passive storage system (whether it is vertical or horizontal).

We use the term storage machine to refer to machines that store materials and have some form of automatable feature. This is a more precise definition that avoids the ambiguity of the term plate hotel.

The only time the term plate hotel or hotel is used in PyLabRobot is when referring to the name of a specific machine, such as the TFS Cytomat™ 2 Hotel Automated Storage. In this case, it is used as a noun to refer to a specific product.

Material Access#

The way a storage machine allows access to materials determines how easily other machines (e.g. robotic arms, grippers, pipettors) can interface with it. PyLabRobot distinguishes storage machines using two axes:

Retrieval Pattern: Stacking (Sequential) vs. Random Access#

Stacking Access (Sequential)

Random Access

Materials stored in a fixed order (e.g. vertical stack, rotating carousel). Only the top/front-most item is accessible without mechanical movement.

Materials stored in individually addressable slots or shelves. Any item can be accessed directly.

Slower access time for deeper items.

Faster access to any item.

Simpler mechanics, smaller footprint.

More flexible but mechanically complex.

Examples:

  • Agilent Labware MiniHub

  • Lab Services PlateCarousel

Examples:

  • Thermo Cytomat 2 C450

  • LiCONiC STX Series

Accessibility: Open vs. Closed Storage#

Open Storage

Closed Storage

Materials are exposed without obstruction. No barrier between the robot and the stored material.

Materials enclosed in a chamber. Access requires opening a door, drawer, or robotic port.

Simplifies integration and visual inspection.

Enables environmental control (temperature, humidity, sterility).

No protection from contamination or temperature drift.

Ideal for incubators, cold storage, and sterile handling.

Examples: - Agilent Labware MiniHub - Manual stackers

Examples: - Thermo Cytomat 2 - LiCONiC STX incubators

Combined Retrieval & Access Summary#

Open Storage

Closed Storage

Stacking Access (Sequential)

Agilent Labware MiniHub Lab Services PlateCarousel

STX incubators with drawer-based shelves

Random Access

Rare in open format (e.g. manual racks)

Thermo Cytomat 2 C450 LiCONiC STX Series