Protecting the World’s First Fully Automated Microinjection Robot

Background

Objective Biotechnology, a lab instrumentation and automation company spun out of the University of Minnesota, developed the world’s first fully automated microinjection robot. As they prepared for its commercial launch and installations across research and conference settings, they faced a significant challenge: safely transporting this delicate, high-value system, complete with sensitive microscope objectives, optical components, and accessories, to locations worldwide.

Challenge

Their existing transport methods did not offer the precision, durability, or logistics needed for recurring, high-stakes shipments. Objective Biotechnology needed a solution that ensured safety, simplified organization, and upheld a professional appearance, particularly when showcasing the system in public and academic environments.

Solution

Custom Case Pros responded by designing a custom Pelican case tailored to the microinjection robot’s unique needs. The collaborative process involved working closely with Objective Biotechnology’s engineering team, using their CAD files and redlined drawings to guarantee exact fit and protective design.

Key features of the solution included:

• Precision Foam Engineering: Custom-cut cavities were crafted for the robot, accessories, and delicate microscope objectives, including foam plugs that act as protective caps during shipment.
• Built-In Flexibility: The design incorporated extra compartments with appropriate tolerances, allowing space for protective wraps and future accessories or upgrades.
• Robust Case Selection: An AL2822-1212AC Pelican case was chosen for its waterproof, impact-resistant shell. To enhance mobility, the case includes removable side casters for ease of transport and long-term usability.

Outcome

The completed case delivered outstanding performance across several dimensions:

• Superior Protection: The system is shielded from impact, vibration, and environmental stress during both national and international transit.
• Organized Transport: The layout streamlined packing and unpacking, with dedicated spaces for the main system, optics, cables, and tools.
• Professional Presentation: A polished, professional appearance elevated Objective Biotechnology’s image in front of research partners and at conferences.
• Scalability and Adaptability: The design allows for future evolution of the system without needing a complete case redesign.

Daniel Surinach, Vice President of Neural Engineering and Co-Founder at Objective Biotechnology, shared images of their robot housed in its new case and expressed his team’s satisfaction with the solution.

Conclusion

For cutting-edge biotech companies, protecting fragile and expensive instrumentation is essential to fostering research and innovation. Custom Case Pros delivered more than a container, they delivered a solution that safeguards, organizes, and elevates. Tailored collaborations like this underscore the value of precision-engineered packaging in advancing scientific progress.