Guiding pipette operations! Preventing dispensing errors and reducing workload.

Introduction video of the case study.

In clinical testing companies, the Projection Picking System® (PPS) is utilized for dispensing operations involving hundreds of samples per day. PPS clearly navigates the suction and discharge positions within containers. If the operator selects the wrong position, an error occurs, preventing dispensing mistakes.

Eliminated human errors, successfully reduced worker burden, and achieved personnel reduction.

Background of the implementation

It was necessary to achieve a reduction in the workload for dispensing operations and the elimination of errors.

There was a need to reduce the working hours for pipetting tasks and eliminate mistakes.

There was a need to achieve a reduction in the workload of operators.

Dispensing operations were performed entirely manually, requiring intense focus for pipette handling, which placed a significant mental and physical burden on workers.

It was necessary to implement objective history management.

There was a desire to leave evidence (records) of when, where (suction and discharge positions), and how much (dispensing volume) dispensing operations were performed, in order to achieve objective management that does not rely on individual workers.

It was necessary to implement measures for labor-saving at the workplace.

In cases where mistakes are absolutely unacceptable, such as specific tests or post-dispensing verification tasks, it was typically necessary to have both a dispensing operator and additional personnel for verification. Securing sufficient staff was challenging, prompting consideration of whether labor-saving measures could be implemented.

The deciding factor for implementation

Systematizing pipetting tasks through navigation using light and audio from projectors.

The deciding factor was the ability to package navigation and high operability in pipetting operations using the Projection Picking System®, as well as the possibility of comprehensive record management with the option to output CSV files.

(Note: The pipette is a general term for scientific instruments used to aspirate relatively small amounts of liquid as needed for measuring or transferring purposes. "Dispensing" in this context refers to the act of dispensing a certain volume of liquid sample using instruments like pipettes in medical, chemical, and physical experiments.)

Reliability through barcode verification.

By using the attached barcode reader during suction and discharge operations, verification is performed, ensuring that tasks are carried out accurately and reliably.

Impact after implementation

Achievement of error-free and quick operations.

Paper is no longer needed, and with instructions from the PPS, tasks can now be performed smoothly and without any errors.

Reduction in the workload of operators.

The workload of operators was reduced by providing clear instructions on the suction and dispensing positions within the container through visual and auditory work navigation.

Visualization of work history.

The work details are logged in the system and can be freely visualized, allowing us to establish evidence for our customers.

Reduction in workforce.

Dispensing operations were previously carried out by a two-person team, consisting of a dispensing operator and a verifier. However, since dispensing operations can now be performed without errors, it has led to a reduction in personnel.