Transfer
Transfer[Options]⟹UnitOperation
transfers an amount of sample from the given sources to the given destinations.
Transfer sample preparation primitive transfers specified amounts of either solid or liquid samples into new or existing containers. Liquid samples (including slurries) can be transferred via graduate cylinders, syringes, aspirators, or pipettes. Solid samples (including powders, pastes, tablets, fabrics, brittle, or vicious samples) can be transferred spatula, tweezers, or transfer tubes. Transfers can occur in multiple transfer environments, such as air-free, ventilated, and bio-safe environments. Additional features, such as cannulation, magnetization, hot/cold transfers at a target temperature, aspiration/dispense mixing, transferring from particular layers in the sample, tip rinsing, reverse pipetting, and gravimetric transfers of liquids, are also supported.
Experimental Principles
Figure 1.1: Liquids can be transferred in a variety of different methods in ExperimentTransfer. Liquids of large volumes will default to transfer via Graduated Cylinder, liquids that are in cannulated containers will default to syringe, liquids that are being transferred into Waste will default to Aspiration, otherwise, liquids will be moved via Pipette.
Figure 1.2: Solids will be transferred based on their SampleHandling. If a solid is SampleHandling->Powder, it will be scooped (the size of scoop is dictated by the ParticleWeight field). If a solid is SampleHandling->Itemized, it will be transferred via Tweezers (unless a specific weight is specified, then it will first be crushed, then transferred as a powder). If SampleHandling->Paste|Viscous, a Transfer Tube will be used.
Instrumentation
Eppendorf Research Plus P200
Figure 2.1: The diagram above lists the available pipette sizes and corresponding tip types that are available in the ECL.
pipetus
Figure 2.2: The above diagram lists the compatible serological tip sizes that are available at the ECL.
Eppendorf Research Plus, 8-channel 100uL
Eppendorf Research Plus, 12-channel 1200uL
HandEvac Handheld Aspirator, Tissue Culture
Figure 2.5: The aspirator can be used to aspirate any volume from a sample using a single channel or 8 channels. Aspirators are currently only available in the BSC (both Microbial and Tissue Culture) and are used for cell culture applications.
Mettler Toledo XP6
Figure 2.6: Items are transferred through an ionizer, which floods the local environment with positive and negative ions. This removes any static electricity that has built up on items and provides a more stable and accurate mass reading.The user must explicitly specify the Micro-Balance using the option Instrument -> Model[Instrument,Balance,"id:54n6evKx08XN"] if so desired.
Ohaus Pioneer PA124
Figure 2.7: Items are transferred through an ionizer, which floods the local environment with positive and negative ions. This removes any static electricity that has built up on items and provides a more stable and accurate mass reading.
Ohaus EX6202
Fume Hood Handling Station with Analytical Balance
Figure 2.9: Fuming samples are automatically routed to use a fume hood as the TransferEnvironment in ExperimentTransfer. Airflow velocity in the fume hood is tracked by ECL Constellation and can be viewed by inspecting the instrument object.
Fume Hood Handling Station with Macro Balance
Figure 2.10: Fuming samples are automatically routed to use a fume hood as the TransferEnvironment in ExperimentTransfer. Airflow velocity in the fume hood is tracked by ECL Constellation and can be viewed by inspecting the instrument object.
Fume Hood Handling Station with Schlenk Line
Figure 2.11: Fuming samples are automatically routed to use a fume hood as the TransferEnvironment in ExperimentTransfer. Airflow velocity in the fume hood is tracked by ECL Constellation and can be viewed by inspecting the instrument object.
Biosafety Cabinet Handling Station for Tissue Culture
Figure 2.12: A biosafety cabinet will be used when transfering into/out of mammalian cell samples. The BSCs at ECL is equipped with 1) a GoPro Camera for protocol streaming, 2) a scanner, a monitor, and footpedals for performing tasks hands-free. The Tissue Culture BSC is additionally equipped with an aspirator system. The Tissue Culture BSC surface is divided into a Clean Zone, a Working Zone, and a Dirty Zone. Microbial samples must be handeled in the Microbial BSC and Tissue Culture samples must be handeled in the Tissue Culture BSC (specified by the CultureHandling field in the Model[Instrument, BiosafetyCabinet])
Biosafety Cabinet Handling Station for Microbiology
Figure 2.13: A biosafety cabinet will be used when transfering into/out of microbial cell samples. The BSCs at ECL is equipped with 1) a GoPro Camera for protocol streaming, 2) a scanner, a monitor, and footpedals for performing tasks hands-free. The Microbial BSC surface is divided into a Clean Zone, a Working Zone, and a Dirty Zone. Microbial samples must be handeled in the Microbial BSC and Tissue Culture samples must be handeled in the Tissue Culture BSC (specified by the CultureHandling field in the Model[Instrument, BiosafetyCabinet]).
Nitrogen Glove Box Handling Station with Analytical Balance
Figure 2.14: The glove box can be used to perform transfers under an inert atmosphere. Note that certain samples (InertCatalystIncompatible->True) cannot be used inside of the glove box. This is because some samples that contain sulfur and sulfur compounds (such as H2S, RSH, COS, SO2, SO3) deactivate the catalyst that is used in the glove box to remove traces of water and oxygen. Large quantities of halides, chlorides, halogen (Freon), alcohol, hydrazine, phosphene, arsine, arsenate, mercury, and saturation with water may also deactivate the catalyst.
Main Lab Portable Heater
Figure 2.15: Containers are placed in the main compartment of the portable heater. The portable heater is filled with lab armor beads to ensure that the entire container is heated to the correct temperature.
ICECO GO20 Portable Refrigerator
Experiment Options
General
Source
Pattern Description: Existing Container with Well Position or New Container with Index or Sample or Container or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[{Object[Sample], Object[Container], Model[Sample]}] | _String) | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1], ObjectP[{Model[Container]}]} | {Alternatives @@ Flatten[AllWells[NumberOfWells -> 384]] | LocationPositionP, ObjectP[{Object[Container]}] | _String}
Destination
Pattern Description: Existing Container with Well Position or New Container with Index or Sample or Container or Waste or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: (ObjectP[{Object[Sample], Object[Item], Object[Container], Model[Container]}] | _String) | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1], ObjectP[{Model[Container]}]} | {Alternatives @@ Flatten[AllWells[NumberOfWells -> 384]] | LocationPositionP, ObjectP[{Object[Container]}] | _String} | Waste
Amount
Programmatic Pattern: RangeP[0.1*Microliter, 20*Liter] | RangeP[1*Milligram, 20*Kilogram] | GreaterP[0., 1.] | All
SourceLabel
A user defined word or phrase used to identify the source sample from which the transfer occurs, for use in downstream unit operations.
SourceContainerLabel
A user defined word or phrase used to identify the container of the source sample from which the transfer occurs, for use in downstream unit operations.
DestinationLabel
A user defined word or phrase used to identify the destination sample from which the source sample is transferred into, for use in downstream unit operations.
DestinationContainerLabel
A user defined word or phrase used to identify the container of the destination sample from which the source sample is transferred into, for use in downstream unit operations.
SourceWell
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the first non-empty well if an Object[Container] or {_Integer, Model[Container]} is given. Otherwise, is set to the position of the given Object[Sample].
RestrictSource
Indicates whether the source should be restricted from automatic use is any of your team's experiments that request the sample's models. (Restricted samples can only be used in experiments when specifically provided as input to the experiment functions by a team member.)
Default Calculation: If this sample is being reused as a source/destination elsewhere in your Transfer and the RestrictSource/RestrictDestination option are specified for that sample, the same value will be used.
RestrictDestination
Indicates whether the destination should be restricted from automatic use is any of your team's experiments that request the sample's models. (Restricted samples can only be used in experiments when specifically provided as input to the experiment functions by a team member.)
Default Calculation: If this sample is being reused as a source/destination elsewhere in your Transfer and the RestrictSource/RestrictDestination option are specified for that sample, the same value will be used.
IntermediateDecantRecoup
Indicates if any residual sample transferred into the intermediate container should be transferred back to the source sample. This option can only be set to True for Object[Sample] source.
BalanceCleaningMethod
Indicates the type of cleaning performed on the balance right before a weighing instance if the operator indicates presence of stray material. Dry indicates the balance pan surface and the balance floor outside of the balance pan are cleared of any stray material using soft and lint-free non-woven wipes. Wet indicates the balance pan surface and the balance floor outside of the balance pan is first cleaned with Dry method, followed by wiping with DI-water moistened wipes, IPA-moistened wipes, and a final dry wipe. None indicates no cleaning is performed prior to initial setup.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the same value as BalancePreCleaningMethod if BalancePreCleaningMethod is either Wet or Dry. If BalancePreCleaningMethod is None, set to Wet.
DestinationWell
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the position of the given Object[Sample]. Otherwise, is set to the first empty well of the container. Otherwise, is set to "A1".
MultichannelTransfer
Indicates if this transfer will occur simultaneously with the other transfer that occur before/after it, up to the number of channels that are available in the pipette chosen via the Instrument option.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if (1) the samples are in a plate, (2) the samples to be transferred before/after this sample are in the same row or well of the plate, (3) the volume of the samples to be transferred is the same, and (4) the spacing of the wells in the plate are compatible with the spacing between the channels in the pipette (HorizontalPitch/VerticalPitch/ChannelOffset).
SachetIntermediateContainer
The weigh boat item that the filler is emptied into after cutting open the source sachet in order to transfer to the destination, if not transferring gravimetrically using a weigh boat already.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a compatible weigh boat model if Sachet -> True and WeighingContainer is Null.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, WeighBoat] or Object[Item, WeighBoat] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, WeighBoat], Object[Item, WeighBoat]}]) | Automatic) | Null
BalancePreCleaningMethod
Indicates the type of cleaning performed on the balance prior to its initial setup for use. Dry indicates the balance pan surface and the balance floor outside of the balance pan is cleared of any stray material using a cleaning brush and lint-free non-woven wipes. Wet indicates the balance pan surface and the balance floor outside of the balance pan is first cleaned with Dry method, followed by wiping with DI-water moistened wipes, IPA-moistened wipes, and a final dry wipe. None indicates no cleaning is performed prior to initial setup.
Preparation
Indicates if this unit operation is carried out primarily robotically or manually. Manual unit operations are executed by a laboratory operator and robotic unit operations are executed by a liquid handling work cell.
WorkCell
The automated workstation with a collection of integrated instruments on which this unit operation will be will be performed if Preparation -> Robotic.
TemperatureConditions
CoolingTime
Specifies the length of time that should elapse after the transfer before the sample is removed from the TransferEnvironment. This is a lower bound, which will govern the final transfer, and so any given sample in a batch may cool for longer than the CoolingTime.
SolidificationTime
In a media transfer, the duration of time after transferring the liquid media into incubation plates that they are held at ambient temperature for the media containing gelling agents to solidify before allowing them to be used for experiments.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 minutes and less than or equal to 1 day or None or Null.
Temperature Conditions
SourceTemperature
Indicates the temperature at which the source sample will be at during the transfer. When samples are transferred off of the operator cart and into the TransferEnvironment, they are placed in a portable heater/cooler to get the sample to temperature right before the transfer occurs. Note that this is different than the TransportCondition of the sample. Samples transferred in a biosafety cabinet can have SourceTemperature specified as Cold (approximately 4 Celsius), Ambient, or a specific temperature above 25 Celsius.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the TransferTemperature or TransportTemperature (whichever is first filled out) of the source sample. Otherwise, is transferred at Ambient temperature.
Pattern Description: Ambient or Cold or greater than or equal to -20 degrees Celsius and less than or equal to 90 degrees Celsius or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (RangeP[$MinIncubationTemperature, 90*Celsius] | Ambient | Cold)) | Automatic) | Null
SourceEquilibrationTime
MaxSourceEquilibrationTime
The maximum duration of time for which the samples will be heated/cooled to the target SourceTemperature, if they do not reach the SourceTemperature after SourceEquilibrationTime. MaxSourceEquilibrationTime will only be used if SourceEquilibrationCheck is set, in order to extend the equilibration time past the initial SourceEquilibrationTime if SourceTemperature has not been reached. Performing an equilibration check will require stopping the experiment and verifying the temperature before moving on; this may add experiment time and may result in loss of sample through evaporation, and is only recommended for use in cases where temperature precision or temperature data is required.
SourceEquilibrationCheck
The method by which to verify the temperature of the source before the transfer is performed. Performing an equilibration check will require stopping the experiment and verifying the temperature before moving on; this may add experiment time and may result in loss of sample through evaporation, and is only recommended for use in cases where temperature precision or temperature data is required.
DestinationTemperature
Indicates the temperature at which the destination will be at during the transfer. When samples are transferred off of the operator cart and into the TransferEnvironment, they are placed in a portable heater/cooler to get the sample to temperature right before the transfer occurs. Note that this is different than the TransportCondition of the sample. Samples transferred in a biosafety cabinet can have DestinationTemperature specified as Cold (approximately 4 Celsius), Ambient, or a specific temperature above 25 Celsius.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the TransferTemperature or TransportTemperature (whichever is first filled out) of the destination sample. Otherwise, is transferred at Ambient temperature.
Pattern Description: Ambient or Cold or greater than or equal to -20 degrees Celsius and less than or equal to 90 degrees Celsius or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (RangeP[$MinIncubationTemperature, 90*Celsius] | Ambient | Cold)) | Automatic) | Null
DestinationEquilibrationTime
The duration of time for which the samples will be heated/cooled to the target DestinationTemperature.
MaxDestinationEquilibrationTime
The maximum duration of time for which the samples will be heated/cooled to the target DestinationTemperature, if they do not reach the DestinationTemperature after DestinationEquilibrationTime. MaxDestinationEquilibrationTime will only be used if DestinationEquilibrationCheck is set, in order to extend the equilibration time past the initial DestinationEquilibrationTime if DestinationTemperature has not been reached. Performing an equilibration check will require stopping the experiment and verifying the temperature before moving on; this may add experiment time and may result in loss of sample through evaporation, and is only recommended for use in cases where temperature precision or temperature data is required.
DestinationEquilibrationCheck
The method by which to verify the temperature of the destination before the transfer is performed. Performing an equilibration check will require stopping the experiment and verifying the temperature before moving on; this may add experiment time and may result in loss of sample through evaporation, and is only recommended for use in cases where temperature precision or temperature data is required.
Instrument Specifications
Instrument
The standalone instrument used to transfer the sample from the source container (or from the intermediate container if IntermediateDecant->True) to the destination container. If this option is set to Null, it indicates that pouring will be done to perform the transfer when Preparation->Manual.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to an instrument that can move the amount being transferred and the source and destination containers of the transfer. For more information, please refer to the function TransferDevices[].
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container, Syringe], Model[Container, GraduatedCylinder], Model[Instrument, Pipette], Model[Instrument, Aspirator], Model[Item, Spatula], Model[Item, Tweezer], Model[Item, TransferTube], Model[Item, ChippingHammer], Model[Item, Scissors], Object[Container, Syringe], Object[Container, GraduatedCylinder], Object[Instrument, Pipette], Object[Instrument, Aspirator], Object[Item, Spatula], Object[Item, Tweezer], Object[Item, TransferTube], Object[Item, ChippingHammer], or Object[Item, Scissors] or a prepared sample or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (ObjectP[{Model[Container, Syringe], Model[Container, GraduatedCylinder], Model[Instrument, Pipette], Model[Instrument, Aspirator], Model[Item, Spatula], Model[Item, Tweezer], Model[Item, TransferTube], Model[Item, ChippingHammer], Model[Item, Scissors], Object[Container, Syringe], Object[Container, GraduatedCylinder], Object[Instrument, Pipette], Object[Instrument, Aspirator], Object[Item, Spatula], Object[Item, Tweezer], Object[Item, TransferTube], Object[Item, ChippingHammer], Object[Item, Scissors]}] | _String)) | Automatic) | Null
TransferEnvironment
The environment in which the transfer will be performed (Biosafety Cabinet, Fume Hood, Glove Box, or Benchtop Handling Station). Containers involved in the transfer will first be moved into the TransferEnvironment (with covers on), uncovered inside of the TransferEnvironment, then covered after the Transfer has finished -- before they're moved back onto the operator cart. Consult the SterileTechnique/RNaseFreeTechnique option when using a BSC. This option cannot be set when Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to an instrument that can handle the any safety requirements of the samples being transferred.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, BiosafetyCabinet], Model[Instrument, FumeHood], Model[Instrument, GloveBox], Model[Container, Bench], Model[Container, Enclosure], Model[Instrument, HandlingStation], Object[Instrument, BiosafetyCabinet], Object[Instrument, FumeHood], Object[Instrument, GloveBox], Object[Container, Bench], Object[Container, Enclosure], or Object[Instrument, HandlingStation] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, BiosafetyCabinet], Model[Instrument, FumeHood], Model[Instrument, GloveBox], Model[Container, Bench], Model[Container, Enclosure], Model[Instrument, HandlingStation], Object[Instrument, BiosafetyCabinet], Object[Instrument, FumeHood], Object[Instrument, GloveBox], Object[Container, Bench], Object[Container, Enclosure], Object[Instrument, HandlingStation]}]) | Automatic) | Null
Balance
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a balance whose MinWeight and MaxWeight is compatible with the transfer amount to be measured, if the transfer is occurring gravimetrically (MassP).
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, Balance] or Object[Instrument, Balance] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, Balance], Object[Instrument, Balance]}]) | Automatic) | Null
TabletCrusher
The pill crusher that will be used to crush any itemized tablet source samples if they are being transferred by mass and not by count.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Model[Item, TabletCrusher, "Silent Knight Pill Crusher"] if an Itemized sample with Tablet -> True is being transferred by mass and not count.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, TabletCrusher] or Object[Item, TabletCrusher] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, TabletCrusher], Object[Item, TabletCrusher]}]) | Automatic) | Null
IncludeSachetPouch
Indicates if the pouch is also transferred to the destination along with the filler. If IncludeSachetPouch -> False, the pouch is directly discarded after emptied.
Tips
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a tip that does not conflict with the incompatible materials of the sample(s) that the tip will come in contact with, the amount being transferred, and the source and destination containers of the transfer (accessibility). For more information, please refer to the function TransferDevices[].
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Tips], Object[Item, Tips], Model[Item, Consumable], or Object[Item, Consumable] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Tips], Object[Item, Tips], Model[Item, Consumable], Object[Item, Consumable]}]) | Automatic) | Null
TipType
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the TipType field of the calculated Tips that will be used to perform the transfer.
TipMaterial
The material of the pipette tips used to aspirate and dispense the requested volume during the transfer.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the chemistry of the calculated Tips that will be used to perform the transfer.
Pattern Description: {ABS, PLA, Acrylic, AmorphousFluoropolymer, CPVC, CTFE, Cycloolefine, COC, Delrin, ECTFE, EPDM, ETFE, EVA, FEP, FFKM, HDPE, Hypalon, LDPE, NaturalRubber, NBR, Neoprene, Nitrile, Noryl, Nylon, PEEK, PEI, Perlast, PharmaPure, Polycarbonate, Polyester, Polyethylene, Polyisoprene, Polyolefin, Polyoxymethylene, Polypropylene, Polysulfone, Polystyrene, Polyurethane, PVC, PCTFE, PETG, PF, PFA, PPS, PTFE, PVDF, SEBS, Silicone, Styrofoam, SyntheticRubber, TFM, TPE, Tygon, UVPlastic, UVXPO, Viton}, {Aluminum, Alloy, AnodisedAluminum, Brass, Bronze, CarbonSteel, CastIron, Chrome, Copper, Elgiloy, Gold, Hastelloy, Lead, Magnesium, Molybdenum, MP35N, MP35NHPS, Nickel, Niobium, Platinum, Silver, Steel, StainlessSteel, Titanium, Tungsten, Zinc}, {Cellulose, Cotton, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PTFE, Nylon, PES, PLUS, PVDF, GlassFiber, GHP, UHMWPE, EPDM, DuraporePVDF, GxF, ZebaDesaltingResin, NickelResin, AgaroseResin, CobaltResin, Silica, HLB, AnoporeAlumina}, {Silica, Alumina, ResinParticlesWithLatexMicroBeads, CrossLinkedDextranBeads, CrossLinkedPolystyrene, AerisCoreShell, KinetexCoreShell, CrossLinkedAgarose, Vydac218MS, JordiGel, Styrene, SilicaCompositeTWIN, BEH, CSH, HSS, CarboPacPA1, CarboPacPA10, BEH}, AluminiumOxide, ZirconiumOxide, Ceramic, Epoxy, EpoxyResin, GlassyCarbon, {BorosilicateGlass, Glass, OpticalGlass}, Graphite, Porcelain, Oxidizer, {Cardboard, Wood}, {Agate, Quartz, UVQuartz, ESQuartz, FusedQuartz, IRQuartz}, Ruby, Sapphire, Silicon, Viton, or {VacuumMeltedStainlessSteel} or Null.
AspirationRate
The speed at which liquid will be drawn up into the pipette tip. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to DispenseRate if it is specified, otherwise set to 100 Microliter/Second if Preparation->Robotic.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0.4 microliters per second and less than or equal to 500 microliters per second or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0.4*(Microliter/Second), 500*(Microliter/Second)]) | Automatic) | Null
DispenseRate
The speed at which liquid will be expelled from the pipette tip. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to AspirationRate if it is specified, otherwise set to 100 Microliter/Second.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0.4 microliters per second and less than or equal to 500 microliters per second or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0.4*(Microliter/Second), 500*(Microliter/Second)]) | Automatic) | Null
OverAspirationVolume
The volume of air drawn into the pipette tip at the end of the aspiration of a liquid. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to OverDispenseVolume if it is specified, otherwise set to 5 Microliter.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 microliters and less than or equal to 50 microliters or Null.
OverDispenseVolume
The volume of air blown out at the end of the dispensing of a liquid. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 microliters and less than or equal to 300 microliters or Null.
AspirationWithdrawalRate
The speed at which the pipette is removed from the liquid after an aspiration. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to DispenseWithdrawalRate if it is specified, otherwise set to 2 Millimeter/Second.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0.3 millimeters per second and less than or equal to 160 millimeters per second or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0.3*(Millimeter/Second), 160*(Millimeter/Second)]) | Automatic) | Null
DispenseWithdrawalRate
The speed at which the pipette is removed from the liquid after a dispense. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to AspirationWithdrawalRate if it is specified, otherwise set to 2 Millimeter/Second.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0.3 millimeters per second and less than or equal to 160 millimeters per second or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0.3*(Millimeter/Second), 160*(Millimeter/Second)]) | Automatic) | Null
AspirationEquilibrationTime
The delay length the pipette waits after aspirating before it is removed from the liquid. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to DispenseEquilibrationTime if it is specified, otherwise set to 1 Second.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 seconds and less than or equal to 9.9 seconds or Null.
DispenseEquilibrationTime
The delay length the pipette waits after dispensing before it is removed from the liquid. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to AspirationEquilibrationTime if it is specified, otherwise set to 1 Second.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 seconds and less than or equal to 9.9 seconds or Null.
AspirationMixRate
The speed at which liquid is aspirated and dispensed in a liquid before it is aspirated. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to DispenseMixRate or AspirationRate if either is specified, otherwise set to 100 Microliter/Second.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0.4 microliters per second and less than or equal to 500 microliters per second or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0.4*(Microliter/Second), 500*(Microliter/Second)]) | Automatic) | Null
DispenseMixRate
The speed at which liquid is aspirated and dispensed in a liquid after a dispense. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to AspirationMixRate or DispenseRate if either is specified, otherwise set to 100 Microliter/Second.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0.4 microliters per second and less than or equal to 500 microliters per second or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0.4*(Microliter/Second), 500*(Microliter/Second)]) | Automatic) | Null
AspirationPosition
The location from which liquid should be aspirated. Top will aspirate AspirationPositionOffset below the Top of the container, Bottom will aspirate AspirationPositionOffset above the Bottom of the container, LiquidLevel will aspirate AspirationPositionOffset below the liquid level of the sample in the container, and TouchOff will touch the bottom of the container before moving the specified AspirationPositionOffset above the bottom of the container to start aspirate the sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the AspirationPosition in the PipettingMethod if it is specified and Preparation->Robotic, otherwise resolves to TouchOff if Preparation->Robotic.
DispensePosition
The location from which liquid should be dispensed. Top will dispense DispensePositionOffset below the Top of the container, Bottom will dispense DispensePositionOffset above the Bottom of the container, LiquidLevel will dispense DispensePositionOffset below the liquid level of the sample in the container, and TouchOff will touch the bottom of the container before moving the specified DispensePositionOffset above the bottom of the container to start dispensing the sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the DispensePosition in the PipettingMethod if it is specified and Preparation->Robotic, resolved to Bottom for MxN MultiProbeHead transfers, otherwise resolves to TouchOff if Preparation->Robotic.
AspirationPositionOffset
The distance from the center of the well that liquid will aspirated. The Z Offset is based on the AspirationPosition option -- measured as the height below the top of the well (Top), the height above the bottom of the well (Bottom), or the height below the detected liquid level (LiquidLevel), see the AspirationPosition diagram in the help file for more information. If an X and Y offset is not specified, the liquid will be aspirated in the center of the well, otherwise, -X/+X values will shift the position left and right, respectively, and -Y/+Y values will shift the position down and up, respectively. When the source container is tilted (via AspirationAngle), the AspirationPositionOffset automatically accounts for the angle of tilt.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the AspirationPositionOffset field in the pipetting method, if specified. If AspirationAngle is set, automatically set to the left most point in the well since liquid will pool in the direction that the plate is tilted. Otherwise, is set to 2 Millimeter.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (GreaterEqualP[0*Millimeter] | Coordinate[{DistanceP, DistanceP, GreaterEqualP[0*Millimeter]}])) | Automatic) | Null
AspirationAngle
The angle that the source container will be tilted during the aspiration of liquid. The container is pivoted on its left edge when tilting occurs. This option can only be provided if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 0 AngularDegree if Preparation->Robotic. Otherwise, set to Null.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than or equal to 10 degrees in increments of 1 degree or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0*AngularDegree, 10*AngularDegree, 1*AngularDegree]) | Automatic) | Null
DispensePositionOffset
The distance from the center of the well that liquid will dispensed. The Z Offset is based on the DispensePosition option -- measured as the height below the top of the well (Top), the height above the bottom of the well (Bottom), or the height below the detected liquid level (LiquidLevel), see the DispensePosition diagram in the help file for more information. If an X and Y offset is not specified, the liquid will be dispensed in the center of the well, otherwise, -X/+X values will shift the position left and right, respectively, and -Y/+Y values will shift the position down and up, respectively. When the destination container is tilted (via DispenseAngle), the DispensePositionOffset automatically accounts for the angle of tilt.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the DispensePositionOffset field in the pipetting method, if specified. If DispenseAngle is set, automatically set to the left most point in the well since liquid will pool in the direction that the plate is tilted. Otherwise, is set to 2 Millimeter.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (GreaterEqualP[0*Millimeter] | Coordinate[{DistanceP, DistanceP, GreaterEqualP[0*Millimeter]}])) | Automatic) | Null
DispenseAngle
The angle that the destination container will be tilted during the dispensing of liquid. The container is pivoted on its left edge when tilting occurs. This option can only be provided if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 0 AngularDegree if Preparation->Robotic. Otherwise, set to Null.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than or equal to 10 degrees in increments of 1 degree or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | RangeP[0*AngularDegree, 10*AngularDegree, 1*AngularDegree]) | Automatic) | Null
CorrectionCurve
The relationship between a target volume and the corrected volume that needs to be aspirated or dispensed to reach the target volume. The correction curve is derived empirically from the relationship between the target and actual amount of volume transferred when on a specific robotic liquid handler instrument model. It is recommended when building one of these curves to measure the volume of sample transferred gravimetrically to get a more accurate CorrectionCurve. Use the function UploadPipettingMethod to create a new pipetting method for a sample model to have all robotic transfers of this sample model to use the derived CorrectionCurve automatically. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to PipettingMethod if it is specified. Otherwise, is set to Null (no correction curve).
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | {{RangeP[0*Microliter, 1000*Microliter], RangeP[0*Microliter, 1250*Microliter]}..}) | Automatic) | Null
PipettingMethod
The pipetting parameters used to manipulate the source sample. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic. If other pipetting options are specified, the parameters from the method here are overwritten.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the PipettingMethod of the model of the sample if available.
DynamicAspiration
Indicates if droplet formation will be prevented during liquid transfer. This will only be used for solvents that have high vapor pressure. This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the DynamicAspiration field in the pipetting method, if available.
DeviceChannel
The channel of the work cell that will be used to perform the transfer (MultiProbeHead | SingleProbe1 | SingleProbe2 | SingleProbe3 | SingleProbe4 | SingleProbe5 | SingleProbe6 | SingleProbe7 | SingleProbe8). This option can only be set if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to SingleProbe1 if MultichannelTransfer->False. Otherwise, set to the appropriate channel to perform the transfer.
Pattern Description: MultiProbeHead, SingleProbe1, SingleProbe2, SingleProbe3, SingleProbe4, SingleProbe5, SingleProbe6, SingleProbe7, or SingleProbe8 or Null.
Needle
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a needle that does not conflict with the incompatible materials of the sample(s) that the tip will come in contact with, the amount being transferred, and the source and destination containers of the transfer (accessibility). For more information, please refer to the function TransferDevices[].
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Needle] or Object[Item, Needle] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Needle], Object[Item, Needle]}]) | Automatic) | Null
Funnel
The funnel that is used to guide the source sample into the destination container when pouring or using a graduated cylinder.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a funnel that can fit into the aperture of the destination container if 1) the transfer Instrument is set to Null (pouring)/GraduatedCylinder or 2) liquid is being transferred from a weighing container to the destination (pouring).
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Part, Funnel] or Object[Part, Funnel] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Part, Funnel], Object[Part, Funnel]}]) | Automatic) | Null
WeighingContainer
The container that will be placed on the Balance and used to weigh out the specified amount of the source that will be transferred to the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a weigh boat (for solids) or container (for liquids) that can hold the Amount of the transfer specified if transferring gravimetrically (MassP). Otherwise, set to Null.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, WeighBoat], Object[Item, WeighBoat], Model[Container, Vessel], Object[Container, Vessel], Model[Item, Consumable], Object[Item, Consumable], Model[Container, GraduatedCylinder], or Object[Container, GraduatedCylinder] or a prepared sample or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (ObjectP[{Model[Item, WeighBoat], Object[Item, WeighBoat], Model[Container, Vessel], Object[Container, Vessel], Model[Item, Consumable], Object[Item, Consumable], Model[Container, GraduatedCylinder], Object[Container, GraduatedCylinder]}] | _String)) | Automatic) | Null
Tolerance
The allowed tolerance of the weighed source sample from the specified amount requested to be transferred.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 5X of the ParticleSize (if specified). Otherwise, set to 2X of the Resolution of the balance being used, if the sample being transferred is a solid. If the sample is not being transferred gravimetrically, set to Null.
HandPump
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Model[Part, HandPump, "id:L8kPEjNLDld6"] if the source is in a container with a MaxVolume over 5 Liters and either (1) the transfer instrument used is a graduated cylinder or (2) an intermediate decant is specified.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Part, HandPump] or Object[Part, HandPump] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Part, HandPump], Object[Part, HandPump]}]) | Automatic) | Null
IntermediateFunnel
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a funnel that can fit inside the IntermediateContainer, if an IntermediateDecant is required.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Part, Funnel] or Object[Part, Funnel] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Part, Funnel], Object[Part, Funnel]}]) | Automatic) | Null
Transfer Technique
ReversePipetting
Indicates if additional source sample will be aspirated (past the first stop of the pipette) to reduce the chance of bubble formation when dispensing into the destination position. This option can only be set if Preparation->Manual.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if the source or destination sample has the ReversePipetting field set and the transfer is occurring via pipette.
SlurryTransfer
Indicates if the source sample should be mixed via pipette until it becomes homogeneous, up to MaxNumberOfAspirationMixes times.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if the SampleHandling of the source sample is set to Slurry.
AspirationMix
Indicates if the source sample will be mixed immediately before it is transferred into the destination sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if any of the other AspirationMix options are set. Otherwise, set to Null.
DispenseMix
Indicates if the destination sample will be mixed immediately after the source sample is transferred into the destination sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if any of the other DispenseMix options are set. Otherwise, set to Null.
AspirationMixVolume
The volume that will be repeatedly aspirated and dispensed via pipette from the source sample in order to mix the source sample immediately before the transfer occurs. The same pipette and tips used in the transfer will be used to mix the source sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 1/2 the volume of the source sample or the maximum volume of the pipette being used, depending on which value is smaller.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 microliters and less than or equal to 50 milliliters or Null.
NumberOfAspirationMixes
The number of times the source is quickly aspirated and dispensed to mix the source sample immediately before it is transferred into the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 5 if any of the other AspirationMix options are set. Otherwise, set to Null.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 50 in increments of 1 or Null.
MaxNumberOfAspirationMixes
The number of times the source is quickly aspirated and dispensed to mix the source sample immediately before it is transferred into the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 5 if any of the other AspirationMix options are set. Otherwise, set to Null.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 100 in increments of 1 or Null.
DispenseMixVolume
The volume that will be repeatedly aspirated and dispensed via pipette from the destination sample in order to mix the destination sample immediately after the transfer occurs. The same pipette and tips used in the transfer will be used to mix the destination sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 1/2 the volume of the destination sample or the maximum volume of the pipette being used, depending on which value is smaller.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 microliters and less than or equal to 50 milliliters or Null.
NumberOfDispenseMixes
The number of times the destination is quickly aspirated and dispensed to mix the destination sample immediately after the source is dispensed.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 5 if any of the other DispenseMix options are set. Otherwise, set to Null.
Pattern Description: Greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 50 in increments of 1 or Null.
Supernatant
Indicates that only top most layer of the source sample will be aspirated when performing the transfer.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if Magnetization->True. Otherwise, set to False/Null.
AspirationLayer
The layer (counting from the top) of the source sample that will be aspirated from when performing the transfer.
DestinationLayer
The layer (counting from the top) of the destination sample that will be dispensed into when performing the transfer.
Magnetization
Indicates if the source container will be put in a magnetized rack to separate out any magnetic components before the transfer is performed.
MagnetizationTime
The time that the source sample will be left on the magnetic rack until the magnetic components are settled at the side of the container.
MaxMagnetizationTime
The maximum time that the source sample will be left on the magnetic rack until the magnetic components are settled at the side of the container.
MagnetizationRack
The magnetized rack that the source/intermediate container will be placed in before the transfer is performed.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a magnetized rack that can hold the source/intermediate container, if Magnetization->True is specified.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container, Rack], Object[Container, Rack], Model[Item, MagnetizationRack], or Object[Item, MagnetizationRack] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Container, Rack], Object[Container, Rack], Model[Item, MagnetizationRack], Object[Item, MagnetizationRack]}]) | Automatic) | Null
CollectionContainer
Specifies the container that is stacked on the bottom of the destination container, before the source sample is transferred into the destination container, in order to collect the sample that flows through from the bottom of the destination container and into the CollectionContainer. This option is only available when Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Model[Container, Plate, "96-well 2mL Deep Well Plate"] if CollectionTime is specified. Otherwise, set to Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ((ObjectP[{Object[Container, Plate], Model[Container, Plate]}] | _String) | ObjectP[{Model[Container, Plate]}] | {GreaterEqualP[1, 1], ObjectP[{Model[Container]}]})) | Automatic) | Null
CollectionTime
The amount of time that the sample that is transferred into the destination container is allowed to flow through the bottom of the destination plate and into the CollectionContainer (that is stacked on the bottom of the destination container). This option is only available when Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 1 Minute if CollectionContainer is specified, otherwise set to Null.
SterileTechnique
Indicates if sterilized instruments and aseptic transfer environments must be used for the transfer. Aseptic transfer environments include biosafety cabinets as TransferEnvironment, or bioSTAR and microbioSTAR Hamilton enclosures as WorkCell. Please consult the ExperimentTransfer documentation for a full diagram of SterileTechnique that is employed by operators.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if the samples being transferred contain tissue culture or microbial components, or require aseptic techniques.
RNaseFreeTechnique
Indicates that RNase free technique will be followed when performing the transfer (spraying RNase away on surfaces, using RNaseFree tips, etc.).
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if the samples being transferred are RNaseFree->True.
Quantitative Transfers
QuantitativeTransfer
Indicates if additional QuantitativeTransferWashSolution will be used to wash the weigh boat, NumberOfQuantitativeTransferWashes times, to maximize the amount of solid that is transferred from the weigh boat (after measurement) to the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if any of the other QuantitativeTransfer options are set. Otherwise, is set to False.
QuantitativeTransferWashSolution
The solution that will be used to wash the weigh boat, NumberOfQuantitativeTransferWashes times, to maximize the amount of solid that is transferred from the weigh boat (after measurement) to the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Model[Sample, "Milli-Q water"] if any of the other QuantitativeTransfer options are set. Otherwise, is set to Null.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Sample] or Object[Sample] or a prepared sample or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (ObjectP[{Model[Sample], Object[Sample]}] | _String)) | Automatic) | Null
QuantitativeTransferWashVolume
The volume of the solution that will be used to wash the weigh boat, NumberOfQuantitativeTransferWashes times, to maximize the amount of solid that is transferred from the weigh boat (after measurement) to the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 1/4 of the MaxVolume of the weigh boat that will be used if any of the other QuantitativeTransfer options are set, up to a maximum of 10 mL. Otherwise, is set to Null.
QuantitativeTransferWashInstrument
The pipette that will be used to transfer the wash solution to wash the weigh boat, NumberOfQuantitativeTransferWashes times, to maximize the amount of solid that is transferred from the weigh boat (after measurement) to the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a pipette that can transfer the requested QuantitativeTransferWashVolume. Otherwise, is set to Null.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Instrument, Pipette] or Object[Instrument, Pipette] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Instrument, Pipette], Object[Instrument, Pipette]}]) | Automatic) | Null
QuantitativeTransferWashTips
The tips that will be used to transfer the wash solution to wash the weigh boat, NumberOfQuantitativeTransferWashes times, to maximize the amount of solid that is transferred from the weigh boat (after measurement) to the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to tips that can transfer the requested QuantitativeTransferWashVolume. Otherwise, is set to Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Tips], Object[Item, Tips]}]) | Automatic) | Null
NumberOfQuantitativeTransferWashes
Indicates the number of washes of the weight boat with QuantitativeTransferWashSolution that will occur, to maximize the amount of solid that is transferred from the weigh boat (after measurement) to the destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 2 if any of the other QuantitativeTransfer options are set. Otherwise, is set to Null.
Hermetic Transfers
BackfillGas
The inert gas that is used equalize the pressure in the source's hermetic container while the transfer out of the source's container occurs.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Nitrogen if the source's container is hermetic and UnsealHermeticSource->False.
BackfillNeedle
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the same model of Needle that will be used to perform the transfer, if the source's container is hermetic and UnsealHermeticSource->False.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Needle] or Object[Item, Needle] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Needle], Object[Item, Needle]}]) | Automatic) | Null
UnsealHermeticSource
Indicates if the source's hermetic container will be unsealed before sample is transferred out of it.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if it is indicated that a syringe/needle will not be used to perform the transfer and the source is in a hermetic container. Otherwise, is set to False.
VentingNeedle
The needle that is used equalize the pressure in the destination's hermetic container while the transfer into the destination's container occurs.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the same model of Needle that will be used to perform the transfer, if the destination's container is hermetic and UnsealHermeticDestination->False.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Needle] or Object[Item, Needle] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Needle], Object[Item, Needle]}]) | Automatic) | Null
UnsealHermeticDestination
Indicates if the destination's hermetic container will be unsealed before sample is transferred out of it.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if it is indicated that a syringe/needle will not be used to perform the transfer and the destination is in a hermetic container. Otherwise, is set to False.
Tip Rinsing
TipRinse
Indicates if the Tips will first be rinsed with a TipRinseSolution before they are used to aspirate from the source sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if any of the other TipRinse options are set. Otherwise, is set to False.
TipRinseSolution
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Model[Sample, "Milli-Q water"] if any of the other TipRinse options are set. Otherwise, is set to Null.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Sample] or Object[Sample] or a prepared sample or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (ObjectP[{Model[Sample], Object[Sample]}] | _String)) | Automatic) | Null
TipRinseVolume
The volume of the solution that the Tips will be rinsed before they are used to aspirate from the source sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 125% of the volume to be transferred, or the MaxVolume of the Tips (which ever is smaller) if any of the other TipRinse options are set. Otherwise, is set to Null.
NumberOfTipRinses
The number of times that the Tips will be rinsed before they are used to aspirate from the source sample.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to 1 if any of the other TipRinse options are set. Otherwise, is set to Null.
Mixing
AspirationMixType
The type of mixing that will occur immediately before aspiration from the source container. Swirl has the operator place the container on the surface of the TransferEnvironment and perform NumberOfAspirationMixes clockwise rotations of the container. Pipette performs NumberOfAspirationMixes aspiration/dispense cycle(s) of AspirationMixVolume using a pipette. Tilt changes the angle of the container to (1) 0 AngularDegrees, (2) 10 AngularDegrees, (3) 0 AngularDegrees, a total of NumberOfAspirationMixes times on a Hamilton integrated tilt plate position. Swirl is only available when Preparation->Manual and Tilt is only available when Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Pipette if any of the other AspirationMix options are set and we're using a pipette to do the transfer. Otherwise, set to Null.
DispenseMixType
The type of mixing that will occur immediately after the sample is dispensed into the destination container. Swirl has the operator place the container on the surface of the TransferEnvironment and perform NumberOfDispenseMixes clockwise rotations of the container. Pipette performs NumberOfDispenseMixes aspiration/dispense cycle(s) of DispenseMixVolume using a pipette. Tilt changes the angle of the container to (1) 0 AngularDegrees, (2) 10 AngularDegrees, (3) 0 AngularDegrees, a total of NumberOfDispenseMixes times on a Hamilton integrated tilt plate position. Swirl is only available when Preparation->Manual and Tilt is only available when Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to Pipette if any of the other DispenseMix options are set and we're using a pipette to do the transfer. Otherwise, set to Null.
Intermediate Decanting
IntermediateDecant
Indicates if the source will need to be decanted into an intermediate container in order for the precise amount requested to be transferred via pipette. Intermediate decants are necessary if the container geometry prevents the Instrument from reaching the liquid level of the sample in the container (plus the delta of volume that is to be transferred). The container geometry is automatically calculated from the inverse of the volume calibration function when the container is parameterized upon receiving. This option will be set to Null if Preparation->Robotic.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if the source is in a container that in a container that is pipette-inaccessible and the Instrument set to perform the transfer is a pipette.
IntermediateContainer
The container that the source will be decanted into in order to make the final transfer via pipette into the final destination.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to the PreferredContainer[...] of the volume that is being transferred if IntermediateDecant->True.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Container] or Object[Container] or a prepared sample or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | (ObjectP[{Model[Container], Object[Container]}] | _String)) | Automatic) | Null
Container Covering
KeepSourceCovered
Indicates if the cover on the source container should be "peaked" off when transferred into/out of instead of taken off completely when performing Manual Transfers in order to reduce chances of contamination or minimize light exposure. When performing robotic manipulations, this indicates that the container should be re-covered after any manipulation that uncovers it is completed.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if Preparation->Manual. If Preparation->Robotic, set based on the KeepCovered field in Object[Sample]/Object[Container] for the source sample/container, or True if SterileTechnique is True.
ReplaceSourceCover
Indicates if the cover on the source container will be replaced at the end of the transfer with a new type of cover. If set to False, the previous cover (or a new instance of the previous cover if the previous cover is not reusable) will be used to cover the container after the transfer occurs.
SourceCover
The new cover that will be placed on the source container after the transfer occurs. By default, this option is set to Null which indicates that the previous cover will be used.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a cover that is compatible with the source container if ReplaceSourceCover->True.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Object[Item, Cap], Object[Item, PlateSeal], Object[Item, Lid], Model[Item, Cap], Model[Item, PlateSeal], or Model[Item, Lid] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[Join[CoverObjectTypes, CoverModelTypes]]) | Automatic) | Null
SourceSeptum
The new septum that will be placed on the source container after the transfer occurs. By default, this option is set to Null which indicates that the previous septum will be used (if there was previously a septum on the container). This option can only be set if a new SourceCover is to be used and that SourceCover is a Model[Item, Cap]/Object[Item, Cap] that has CoverType->Crimp and SeptumRequired->True.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a septum that is compatible with the source container if ReplaceSourceCover->True.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Septum] or Object[Item, Septum] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Septum], Object[Item, Septum]}]) | Automatic) | Null
SourceStopper
The new stopper that will be placed on the source container after the transfer occurs. By default, this option is set to Null which indicates that the previous stopper will be used (if there was previously a stopper on the container). This option can only be set if a new SourceCover is to be used and that SourceCover is a Model[Item, Cap]/Object[Item, Cap] that has CoverType->Crimp.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a stopper that is compatible with the source container if ReplaceSourceCover->True.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Stopper] or Object[Item, Stopper] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Stopper], Object[Item, Stopper]}]) | Automatic) | Null
KeepDestinationCovered
Indicates if the cover on the destination container should be "peaked" off when transferred into/out of instead of taken off completely when performing Manual Transfers in order to reduce chances of contamination or minimize light exposure. When performing robotic manipulations, this indicates that the container should be re-covered after any manipulation that uncovers it is completed.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if Preparation->Manual. If Preparation->Robotic, set based on the KeepCovered field in Object[Sample]/Object[Container] for the destination sample/container, or True if SterileTechnique is True.
ReplaceDestinationCover
Indicates if the cover on the destination container will be replaced at the end of the transfer with a new type of cover. If set to False, the previous cover (or a new instance of the previous cover if the previous cover is not reusable) will be used to cover the container after the transfer occurs.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to True if any of the DestinationCover options are specified.
DestinationCover
The new cover that will be placed on the destination container after the transfer occurs. By default, this option is set to Null which indicates that the previous cover will be used.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a cover that is compatible with the destination container if ReplaceDestinationCover->True.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Object[Item, Cap], Object[Item, PlateSeal], Object[Item, Lid], Model[Item, Cap], Model[Item, PlateSeal], or Model[Item, Lid] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[Join[CoverObjectTypes, CoverModelTypes]]) | Automatic) | Null
DestinationSeptum
The new septum that will be placed on the destination container after the transfer occurs. By default, this option is set to Null which indicates that the previous septum will be used (if there was previously a septum on the container). This option can only be set if a new DestinationCover is to be used and that DestinationCover is a Model[Item, Cap]/Object[Item, Cap] that has SeptumRequired->True.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a septum that is compatible with the destination container if ReplaceDestinationCover->True.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Septum] or Object[Item, Septum] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Septum], Object[Item, Septum]}]) | Automatic) | Null
DestinationStopper
The new stopper that will be placed on the destination container after the transfer occurs. By default, this option is set to Null which indicates that the previous stopper will be used (if there was previously a stopper on the container). This option can only be set if a new DestinationCover is to be used and that DestinationCover is a Model[Item, Cap]/Object[Item, Cap] that has CoverType->Crimp.
Default Calculation: Automatically set to a stopper that is compatible with the destination container if ReplaceDestinationCover->True.
Pattern Description: An object of type or subtype Model[Item, Stopper] or Object[Item, Stopper] or Null.
Programmatic Pattern: ((Null | ObjectP[{Model[Item, Stopper], Object[Item, Stopper]}]) | Automatic) | Null
Post Experiment
SamplesInStorageCondition
The non-default conditions under which the SamplesIn of this experiment should be stored after the protocol is completed. If left unset, SamplesIn will be stored according to their current StorageCondition.
Pattern Description: {AmbientStorage, EnclosedAmbientStorage, Refrigerator, Freezer, DeepFreezer, CryogenicStorage, YeastIncubation, YeastShakingIncubation, BacterialIncubation, BacterialShakingIncubation, MammalianIncubation, ViralIncubation, CrystalIncubation, AcceleratedTesting, IntermediateTesting, LongTermTesting, UVVisLightTesting} or Disposal or Null.
SamplesOutStorageCondition
The non-default conditions under which any new samples generated by this experiment should be stored after the protocol is completed. If left unset, the new samples will be stored according to their Models' DefaultStorageCondition.
Pattern Description: {AmbientStorage, EnclosedAmbientStorage, Refrigerator, Freezer, DeepFreezer, CryogenicStorage, YeastIncubation, YeastShakingIncubation, BacterialIncubation, BacterialShakingIncubation, MammalianIncubation, ViralIncubation, CrystalIncubation, AcceleratedTesting, IntermediateTesting, LongTermTesting, UVVisLightTesting} or Disposal or Null.
Protocol Options
Post Experiment
MeasureWeight
Indicates if any solid samples that are modified in the course of the experiment should have their weights measured and updated after running the experiment. Please note that public samples are weighed regardless of the value of this option.
MeasureVolume
Indicates if any liquid samples that are modified in the course of the experiment should have their volumes measured and updated after running the experiment. Please note that public samples are volume measured regardless of the value of this option.
ImageSample
Example Calls
Basic Transfers of Liquids and Solids
Transfer transfers specified amounts of either solid or liquid samples into new or existing containers:
Setting the amount to All will transfer all of the source sample into the destination sample (by pouring, if possible):
New containers can be tagged with a number such that they can be used multiple times within a single transfer protocol:
When transferring a sample in a BSC (and only in a BSC), a cellular aspirator can be used to aspirate the sample into waste:
Samples that are in containers marked as Ampoule->True will automatically be opened (UnsealHermeticSource->True) using an Ampoule opener:
Transfer Environments
Model[Sample]s that comes in a hermetic container will be transferred via cannulation (syringes/needles/backfill gas). By default, the source container will not be unsealed and the transfer will occur in a fume hood:
Model[Sample]s that comes in a hermetic container can be unsealed. This will result in the transfer occuring in a glove box:
Use SterileTechnique option to specify that a transfer should occur in a biosafety cabinet, using sterile technique:
Use TransferEnvironment option to specify a specific transfer environment. Note that aqueous sample cannot be placed in a glove box and non-sterile samples cannot be placed in a tissue culture BSC:
Optimizing Transfers
Transfers will be performed in the order specified. To optimize the speed of transfers, group transfers that use the same transfer environment/instruments back-to-back. Instruments and samples will all be moved onto the work surface at the same time:
Separation (Magnetization/Layered) Transfers
Specifying Supernatant->True and a specific volume as an amount will use an appropriately sized pipette to aspirate the supernatant (top) layer of the source sample:
Specifying Supernatant->True and All as an amount will use an appropriately sized pipette (which can aspirate the entire volume of the source sample) to aspirate the supernatant (top) layer of the source sample:
Specify the Magnetization option to use a magnetic rack to separate any magnetic particles from the source sample before the transfer should occur:
Use the Source/DestinationLayer option to specify the layer of the source/destination to aspirate/dispense into. This can be used for liquid-liquid extractions or pelleting:
Misc Features
Specify that the source/destination sample should be transferred at a specific temperature that is verified using an IR surface probe:
Transfer the samples via reverse pipetting to minimize the creation of bubbles in the destination sample:
When transferring solid samples into a destination that already has a sample in it, an new empty container (WeighingContainer) will need to be used (in order to precisely measure out the requested mass before pouring into the destination container). This can lead to a loss of sample. A quantitative wash solution can be provided such that the intermediate empty container (WeighingContainer) is washed multipled times and transferred into the destination container to minimize sample loss:
Transferring water samples over 3mL will automatically resolve to using a water purifier and a graduated cylinder:
Robotic Sample Preparation
Warnings and Errors
-
Messages
Possible Issues
Not Enough Volume/Mass to Perform Transfer
The actual amount transferred (0 Percent - 100 Percent) will be stored in the Manipulations[PercentTransferred] field of the protocol object. This amount is estimated by the operator, directly after the transfer is performed. Evaporation can result in less sample existing in the source container than expected - thus leading to a PrecentTransferred under 100 Percent.
Unable to Reach Source/DestinationTemperature
The Source/DestinationTemperature options specify the temperature that the Source and Destination containers, respectively, should be at before the transfer should be performed. Even if the portable cooler/heater that is used to house the container is set at this temperature, sometimes the container will still not equilibrate to the target temperature after MaxTime. The actual temperature of the Source/Destination containers before the transfer is performed can be viewed in the MeasuredSource/DestinationTemperature field of the Object[UnitOperation, Transfer].
No Defined Layers
The Source/DestinationLayer option specifies the layer (counting from the top) of the sample that the operator should aspirate from/dispense into, respectively. However, when expected separation does not occur, there might not be any defined layers in the sample. Right before the transfer, the operator is asked if there is visible separation in the source/destination and the result is stored in the DefinedSource/DestinationLayers field of the Object[Protocol, Transfer].
Filter Plate Dripping
When unstacked filter plates are moved or manipulated without their collection plates in a robotic sample preparation, the filtered material may drip onto the liquid handler deck, leading to sample loss.
Homogeneity Assumption
Homogeneity is assumed when performing Transfers in ECL. If there is any liquid in a sample, it is assumed any solid in the sample is dissolved in the liquid.
Volume Assumption
If a Transfer is between a solid and a liquid. The final volume of the output sample will be the volume of liquid added plus the volume of the solid (converted using its density).
Wide Bore Tip Transfer Dead Volume in Robotic Pipette Mix
Last modified on Thu 11 Sep 2025 11:04:30