Installing Labware onto the Deck (Software + Physical Steps)
Overview
To use labware in the Jubilee system, it must be both digitally registered into the Deck software and physically installed onto the machine. This procedure describes all required steps for safely and correctly installing labware.
Pre-Conditions
- The Jubilee machine is powered on and homed.
- The deck is empty or has available slots.
- Required labware configuration files (
.json) are available.
Steps
1. Connect to the Machine
Create a connection to the Jubilee machine. This will automatically load the deck if a deck_config is provided.
python
from science_jubilee.machine import Machine
# Initialize connection
m = Machine(address="192.168.1.2", deck_config="standard_deck")- Ensure the IP address and deck configuration file match your setup.
2. List Available Labware Definitions
First, list all labware definitions to find the correct configuration name.
python
from science_jubilee.labware import Labware
# List all available labware definitions
Labware.list_labware_definitions()- Note the exact name of the labware you intend to install (e.g.,
"falcon_96_wellplate_360ul_flat").
3. Load Labware into the Deck
Use the Machine object to register the labware into a specific slot.
python
# Load labware into slot 1
labware = m.load_labware("falcon_96_wellplate_360ul_flat", slot=1)- This digitally registers the labware with the machine, applying the correct slot offsets automatically.
Important: Slot numbers must be valid and empty.
4. Prepare Physical Installation
Move the machine bed down to create room for physically placing the labware.
python
# Lower the Z-axis bed safely
m.move_to(z=150)- This command moves the bed downward (Z=150 mm) to avoid collisions.
- Remove any lids or covers from the labware.
- Orient the labware correctly: Well A1 should face toward the tool rail.
5. Physically Place Labware
- Manually place the labware into the assigned deck slot.
- Ensure it sits securely and matches the digital slot mapping.
6. Confirm Installation
Verify that the machine correctly recognizes the installed labware.
python
# Inspect the loaded deck slots
for slot_num, slot_obj in m.deck.slots.items():
if slot_obj.has_labware:
print(f"Slot {slot_num} has {slot_obj.labware}")If necessary, repeat steps for installing additional labware pieces.
Important Notes
- Physically installed labware must match the digital slot assignment exactly.
- Orientation matters: incorrect placement may lead to collisions during movement.
- Tip racks automatically initialize wells with
has_tip = True. - Use manual calibration (
manual_offset) if precise placement needs adjustment. - Always keep hands clear of moving parts during bed movement.
- Machine moves are absolute by default; always check Z height before hand-placing labware.