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Reimagining Remote I/O to Improve Lab and Pharmacy Automation
In the ever-evolving landscape of laboratory and pharmacy automation, the integration of communication technologies is paramount to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and cost controls. One such communication technology is the implementation of what we’ll call “reimagined remote I/O” for lab and pharmacy automation. Reimagining involves addressing size and orientation issues as well as adding advanced functionality. This transformative technology will reshape the way labs and pharmacies operate their automated facilities, bringing seamless connectivity, real-time data access, and improved control over critical processes.
What Is Remote I/O?
Remote I/O involves the decentralization of input/output modules from a central unit, allowing for remote monitoring and control of automation devices and equipment. Reimagined remote I/O sets a new standard for physical size and functionality. In the context of lab and pharmacy automation, this translates into a more flexible and scalable infrastructure that can adapt to the specific needs of modern facilities.
How Size and Orientation of Reimagined Remote I/O Enhances Automation
With both lab and pharmacy automation, size is a critical factor in selecting remote I/O. Much of the automation involves handling vials, bottles, ampules, well plates and other small and delicate pieces. This trickles down to small conveying and automation handling systems, many layered close in on each other. Personnel are also involved in operations and need unrestricted movement around the equipment. Traditional remote I/O blocks are developed for large scale, industrial automation environments where size is not an issue.
Banner Engineering is reimagining remote I/O with remote I/O blocks that are uniquely flush with the machine framing, allowing operators to safely remain close to their work envelope. No cables are jutting out into that work envelope. Conveyor lines can be installed tightly against each other. And the I/O blocks are easily visible to aid maintenance personnel when troubleshooting automation devices.
Reimagined Remote I/O Delivers Advanced Functionality
This comes in two parts. The first is more connectivity between all layers of information. The second is smarter data. Both work together to advance remote I/O.
Remote I/O blocks need the capability of communication with all popular protocols common in lab and pharmacy automation. Having these protocols in every unit ensures communication is available regardless of the system. In lab automation, we see many dissimilar instruments that require communication and a simple interface with the automation systems. Pharmacy automation often has islands of automation that can now be connected effectively.
At the field level, all types of discrete and analog signals are readily available. This also includes serial technology spanning old and new technology. An example of old communication technology would be something like the venerable RS-232 interface. New would be IO-Link technology that brings additional advancements to field I/O devices common in lab and pharmacy automation. Regardless of what you have in the field, there is a reimagined remote I/O module to handle it.
Smarter Data Drives Lab and Pharmacy Automation
Data is most valuable when its meaning is understood, and its format is something you can use. Banner’s native protocol uses a specific identifier to provide context surrounding the specific device data. This provides formatted and scaled data that is instantly understood and ready to be used by all systems and personnel.
To go even further, Banner provides local preprocessing functions to enrich the data for downstream systems. For instance, if a sensor is used for counting drops, the remote I/O can be configured to accumulate the value instead of providing a pulse per drop, delivering information that is much more valuable.
See How Reimagined Remote I/O Can Help Your Lab or Pharmacy
We’ve only touched on what reimagined remote I/O can do for your lab or pharmacy automation operations. The benefits discussed here are far reaching with a positive impact on total costs. To see the benefits of making the change to reimagined remote I/O, contact your local Banner representative for an I/O architecture comparison. This allows you to see the benefits of Banner’s remote I/O compared to your exact architecture layout. You will be impressed with what reimagined remote I/O can do for your bottom line.
