In emerging fields such as laboratory automation or biotechnology, production equipment has to meet extremely high cleaning and cleanliness standards. With superconductor technology, objects can be moved and handled contact-free, which is ideal for such applications. The SupraModule makes it possible to wirelessly control functions on a magnetic, levitating carrier with an autonomous power supply.
Medical technology, laboratory automation, biotechnology, and food production are decisive emerging fields of automation that harbor significant growth potential over the coming decades. Contactless, frictionless handling through walls and in any spatial plane, as is possible with superconductor technology, makes completely new automation solutions in these fields possible – particularly in ultraclean environments. Cleanliness and reliable cleaning are the basic requirements for hygienic and safe production in these applications.
Separating the product and handling in a vacuum, in a clean room, in gases, or in liquids makes it possible to transport the product in a manner that meets the most stringent requirements. Superconductors’ special properties unlock tremendous potential wherever contact-free storage or handling is required. Automation can thus also penetrate areas that were previously considered impossible or extremely difficult to automate.
The SupraModule allows different applications to be carried out via levitation with a single system. A magnetic carrier with built-in control electronics and a power supply serves as the basis for this. This levitates at a distance of ten millimeters above a cryostat with superconductors. Depending on the requirements, various systems can be attached to the carrier, such as a compact gripper or a pipetting device.
The systems can be controlled wirelessly. This allows the SupraModule to carry out applications in enclosed spaces, which is particularly beneficial in the fields of laboratory automation and medical technology, for example.