Fluent^® Laboratory Automation Workstation for cell-based assays by Tecan

Tecan has partnered with experts in the field – including Cisbio Bioassays, DiscoveRx, and Fraunhofer IME – to ensure the Fluent Laboratory Automation Workstation for cell-based assays offers exceptional versatility, walkaway operation and robust data generation for commonly used assays such as HTRF® and GPCR. The result is a compact system offering higher throughput, greater precision and excellent reliability. Even complex cell-based assays can be automated using the platform’s FluentControl™ software, freeing researchers to focus on other tasks.

Fluent is a unique automation concept built around the application-specific needs of laboratories, delivering more capacity and increased speed. Available in three deck sizes offering capacities from 30 to 72 microplates, it features a modular Dynamic Deck™ with a multi­level design that allows flexible integration of complementary devices, and task-specific arms that can be operated simultaneously to ensure timely completion of assays. High definition pipetting using predefined liquid classes ensures optimal accuracy and reproducibility, and the patented Path Finder™ technology automatically programs the fastest, most efficient route for every arm movement, avoiding the need for laborious manual programming.

Fluent’s built-in touchscreen interface simplifies day-to-day activities by guiding scientists through routine set-up and operation of the system for consistent, reproducible operation. FluentControl can provide graphical instructions and prompts for every step of the set-up process, from the number and type of cell plates required to the exact location of compound plates and assay reagents, helping to ensure compliance with SOPs and assay protocols. This is complemented by a PC-based programming environment which offers ‘drag and drop’ protocol development, 3D modeling and contextual checks to ensure rapid, easy scripting. FluentControl also offers straightforward integration and control of a wide range of Tecan and third-party devices, providing user-friendly, walkaway automation of virtually any cell-based assay workflow.