iHEX – The mobile, connected lab of the future

A traditional laboratory is defined as a static and inflexible workspace which is nowadays occupied by a lot of devices placed on top of the benches. This results in an actual reduction of space available for work. More important is the decrease of flexibility and efficiency because necessary devices, chemicals or consumables which are used in a specific workflow are often not close by.

The iHEX system developed at the TU Dresden, research group SmartLab systems gives the opportunity to design the laboratory workspace modular in the way it is needed for the workflow and can be changed by simple re-arrangement. This is possible through hexagonal shaped elements, which attach to each other at their edges. Mobile elements link to static parts of the system where the transmission of power and data (e.g. Serial and Ethernet) is ensured through integrated plugs.

Every iHEX element has power and Ethernet connections, which enables to connect devices to a network. These can then be controlled through a workflow process management system. The devices used in a workflow get placed on top or can be integrated into the iHex elements only exposing functional parts to the user and consequently saving valuable work space.

An integrated LED ring in each element shows the user the status of each element and its connected device. This gives the user information about the workflow progress, actual status or indicates if interaction is required. The user is also able to gather this information from remote.

In total the iHEX system should not be understood as a hexagonal laboratory furniture, but rather as an interface between the physical structure, the needed devices, their control software and the user itself. Thanks to the modular assembly of individual elements, the workspace can be set up according to the specific workflow. Thus offering a high degree of flexibility and time efficiency as all items are available in one place.