Perkin Elmer
Differential Scanning Calorimeter
Perkin Elmer, an innovator in analytical chemistry, collaborated with Farm in the development of their new line of high-performance differential scanning calorimeters used to measure characteristic properties of samples by conducting thermal analysis. The goal was to incorporate greater sensitivity, accuracy and precision into the motion control system to improve inefficiencies, increase throughput, and minimize user interaction; while optimizing the unit for manufacturability, serviceability and reliability.
Farm's systems engineering team developed an entirely new robotic system with proprietary mechanisms, software and electronic design. Multiple prototypes were fabricated and debugged and critical tolerance analysis was completed throughout the program to deliver a highly optimized solution. Farm's engineering team also assembled multiple pilot units and completed verification testing and agency prequalification to confirm reliability and safety. Key features include:
- Electronic calibration and motion control system that ensured sampling precision and positional accuracy within .0006".
- An "intelligent" recovery system comprised of a sensing head and proprietary software with the ability to anticipate possible faults in the system and formulate solutions to maintain throughput and minimize user interaction. Contaminated tips are replaced, foreign objects are relocated and furnace damage is eliminated.
- All components can be easily removed, replaced, installed and upgraded in the field with no preventive maintenance required for the life of the unit.
The collaboration between Farm and Perkin Elmer was a total product development success that pushed performance, precision, reliability and accuracy to an entirely new level.