Agilent Technologies Velocity11 VSpin User Manual

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Chapter 2: VSpin Overview
VSpin User Guide
About Teachpoints
Teachpoint Defined A teachpoint is a point in space to which a device such as a robot or
bucket can move and is defined with respect to reference positions built
in to that device.
For example, when you define a VSpin bucket position, the bucket
position becomes a teachpoint where your robot can place a plate.
See “Creating and Managing Profiles” on page 37.
About the Home
Position
On the VSpin, the home position is the reference position used to orient
the rotor.
When you set the teachpoint for the VSpin, you are setting the angle
from the home position to the angle that the rotor turns to line a bucket
up with the door. The software designates this teachpoint as bucket
number one. This teachpoint must be set for operation.
Teachpoints and the
Teach Bucket
Position Dialog Box
The Teach Bucket Position dialog box is used to align the buckets to the
door by calculating a teachpoint value. In the following example, the
Current position of 7999 is where bucket number one lines up with the
door. Notice that this is the sum of the Home position value of 6689 and
the Teachpoint value of 1310.
When you tell the VSpin to go to bucket number one, it finds the Home
position and then moves an additional angle as defined by the
Teachpoint value, in this case 1310, to end up at position value 7999.
There are 8000 units in one revolution, so bucket two will be at a
position value that is 4000 units less than the bucket one position value.
In this case, that is 3999.
To see how to open and use the Teach Bucket Position dialog box, see
“Creating and Managing Profiles” on page 37.

Agilent Technologies Velocity11 VSpin Specifications

General

Manufacturer	Agilent Technologies
Model	Velocity11 VSpin
Capacity	24 x 1.5/2.0 mL tubes
Temperature Control	No
Power Requirements	100-240 V, 50/60 Hz

Summary

Introduction

What This Guide Covers

Summarizes the manual's scope and content. Covers installation, setup, operation, and maintenance.

Getting Help from Velocity11

Provides contact information for support and guidance on finding software version details.

Safety Information

Details critical warnings and precautions for safe operation, handling, and potential hazards.

VSpin Overview

VSpin Description

Introduces the microplate centrifuge and its intended use within lab automation systems.

Hardware Overview

Describes the front and rear physical features of the VSpin unit, including connection panels.

Performance Specifications

Lists key technical specifications like rotational speed, acceleration, and load limits.

Labware Compatibility

Details dimensions and standards for microplates and lids compatible with the VSpin.

Software Overview

Explains the different software options for controlling and interacting with the VSpin.

About Profiles

Explains VSpin profiles as saved settings for specific applications, ensuring data retention.

About Teachpoints

Defines teachpoints for precise robot arm alignment with VSpin buckets for plate placement.

About the Control Page

Describes the VSpin Diagnostics Control interface for testing and troubleshooting.

About the Profiles Page

Details the interface for setting and saving VSpin operational parameters and configurations.

About the Diagnostics Page

Overview of the VSpin Diagnostics interface for diagnosing and troubleshooting issues.

Installation

Installation Overview

Lists the sequential steps required for properly installing the VSpin unit.

Laboratory Requirements

Specifies environmental, electrical, and air supply conditions needed for VSpin setup.

Unpacking the VSpin

Details the contents of the VSpin package and initial inspection for shipping damage.

Preparing the Mounting Surface

Instructions for preparing a stable surface for VSpin mounting, including hole preparation.

Mounting the VSpin

Step-by-step guide for physically installing the VSpin unit onto a prepared surface.

Installing the Buckets

Procedure for safely inserting or replacing the VSpin's sample buckets into the rotor.

About the Connection Panel

Details the common features and ports on the VSpin's rear connection panel.

Connecting to Air and Power Sources

Instructions for connecting the VSpin to compressed air and electrical power sources.

About the Computer

Lists the minimum system requirements for the computer used to control the VSpin.

Connecting to the Computer

Procedure for establishing a serial connection between the VSpin and the control PC.

Installing the Software

Step-by-step guide for installing the VSpin diagnostics and control software.

Creating and Managing Profiles

Guide to creating, editing, copying, and deleting VSpin profiles for configuration.

Aligning the Buckets

Procedures for teaching bucket positions for accurate robot arm access and plate placement.

Performing a Spin

Workflow Overview

Provides a general sequence of steps for performing a spin cycle with the VSpin.

Turning on the VSpin

Procedure to power on the VSpin unit and verify all necessary connections are made.

Starting the Software

Instructions on launching the VSpin Diagnostics software to control the instrument.

Using Profiles

Steps for selecting and loading VSpin profiles to configure spin parameters.

Configuring Motion Settings

Adjusting velocity, acceleration, and deceleration parameters for optimal spin performance.

Configuring Time Settings

Setting spin duration and selecting timer modes (Total time, Time at speed).

Setting the Presented Bucket

Selecting which bucket (1 or 2) is positioned at the door for plate access.

Balancing the Plates

Crucial procedure for ensuring plate weight within 10g for proper balance and error prevention.

Starting a Spin

Steps to initiate a spin cycle using the diagnostics software and check bucket orientation.

Stopping a Spin

Procedure to halt an ongoing spin cycle at any time during operation.

Monitoring the Progress of a Spin

Checking rotational speed, spin time, status lights, and bucket position during operation.

Shutting Down the VSpin

Procedure for safely powering off the VSpin and preparing it for storage or movement.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Routine Maintenance

Recommendations for regular upkeep and scheduled service visits to ensure VSpin longevity.

Disconnecting the Air Supply

Step-by-step guide to safely detach the compressed air hose from the VSpin.

Preparing to Clean the VSpin

Procedures to follow before performing any cleaning or maintenance on the VSpin.

Unlocking and Opening the Door Manually

Method to open the VSpin door without power, necessary for maintenance access.

Removing the Buckets

Procedure for safely removing the VSpin's sample buckets for cleaning or inspection.

Cleaning the VSpin

Instructions for cleaning the VSpin's internal and external surfaces using appropriate agents.

Lubrication

Information on spindle lubrication requirements and bucket pin bushing maintenance.

Cleaning Up Broken Plates

Guidelines for safely cleaning spilled liquid and broken plate fragments from the VSpin.

Testing the VSpin Actuators

How to diagnose issues with bucket lock, door lock, and door open actuators via software.

Checking Error Messages

How to view and interpret error and status messages displayed by the VSpin system.

VSpin Error Reference

A comprehensive table listing common VSpin errors and recommended resolution steps.

Packing the VSpin for Shipping

Procedures for safely packaging the VSpin for transport or return to service.

ActiveX Controls

About ActiveX Controls

Introduction to VSpin ActiveX controls for integrating into third-party lab automation systems.

Setting Up Properties

Details on how to retrieve VSpin bitmap data and other parameters via ActiveX properties.

Setting Up Methods

Explains VSpin methods like Initialize, Close, and SpinCycle for programmatic control.

Setting Up Events

How VSpin ActiveX controls notify the container application of procedure completion or errors.