About
Hudson Robotics stands at the forefront of laboratory automation, designing and assembling a comprehensive range of robotic systems that help modern labs operate faster, more accurately, and more reproducibly. Their product portfolio spans liquid handling robots (including the SOLO™ Automated Liquid Handler, Cobra, and Crystal Phoenix Dispenser), microplate automation (PlateCrane EX™, LabLinx™, CytoLoader™), colony picking systems (RapidPick™ series), pH meters, and protein crystallization tools. Tying it all together is SoftLinx™, Hudson's proprietary lab automation software that orchestrates multi-instrument workflows without requiring deep programming knowledge. Through subsidiary brands Art Robbins Instruments and Tomtec, Hudson extends its reach into protein crystallography and high-precision liquid pipetting, respectively. Their Protean, Quadra5, and Synthetic Biology Workstations provide integrated platforms for complex, multi-step protocols. Hudson's solutions are ideal for pharmaceutical R&D, genomics, proteomics, HLA tissue typing, and high-throughput screening labs seeking to automate sample preparation, plate handling, and liquid transfers. Custom OEM configurations and distributor partnerships mean Hudson can tailor automation to virtually any laboratory setting, from small research groups to large-scale industrial operations.
Key Features
- Liquid Handling Automation: A broad lineup of liquid handlers — including the SOLO™, Cobra, and Quadra5 — automates pipetting, dispensing, and sample transfers with high precision and reproducibility.
- Microplate Handling & Delivery: PlateCrane robotic arms, LabLinx delivery systems, and CytoLoader platforms automate microplate movement, storage, and delivery across instruments without manual intervention.
- SoftLinx™ Lab Automation Software: Hudson's proprietary scheduling and orchestration software integrates multiple instruments into seamless, software-driven workflows, enabling complex multi-step protocols with minimal programming.
- Colony Picking Systems: The RapidPick™ series offers automated colony picking in multiple configurations (single-pin, multi-pin, harvester) for microbiology and synthetic biology applications.
- Protein Crystallization Tools: Through Art Robbins Instruments, Hudson provides specialized dispensers, imaging systems (CrysCam), and crystallization plates for structural biology research.
Use Cases
- Automating high-throughput liquid transfers and sample preparation in pharmaceutical drug discovery labs
- Streamlining microplate handling and delivery across multiple analytical instruments in genomics workflows
- Picking and transferring bacterial or yeast colonies for synthetic biology and strain engineering projects
- Setting up and imaging protein crystallization trials for structural biology research using Art Robbins tools
- Integrating multiple lab instruments into a single automated workflow using SoftLinx™ scheduling software
Pros
- Comprehensive Product Ecosystem: Hudson covers virtually every major lab automation need — liquid handling, plate movement, colony picking, and software — under one roof, simplifying vendor management.
- Custom & OEM Solutions: Hudson offers tailored automation configurations and OEM partnerships, making it suitable for unique or highly specialized laboratory workflows.
- Proven Industry Track Record: With multiple established brands (Hudson, Art Robbins, Tomtec) and hundreds of labs worldwide as customers, the platform has a strong reliability and support reputation.
Cons
- Enterprise Pricing: Lab robotics hardware and software represent significant capital investment, placing Hudson's solutions out of reach for smaller labs or startups with limited budgets.
- Complex Implementation: Deploying and integrating multiple robotic systems requires specialized expertise and often dedicated automation staff or vendor support.
- Limited Self-Service Information: Pricing, detailed specs, and configuration options are not readily available online, requiring direct sales engagement before evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of laboratories use Hudson Robotics systems?
Hudson's systems are used across pharmaceutical R&D, genomics, proteomics, HLA tissue typing, structural biology, high-throughput screening, and synthetic biology laboratories.
What is SoftLinx™ and how does it work?
SoftLinx™ is Hudson's proprietary lab automation software that schedules and coordinates multiple instruments within a workflow, allowing complex multi-step protocols to run automatically without constant operator intervention.
Does Hudson Robotics offer custom automation solutions?
Yes. Hudson provides custom-configured workstations and OEM solutions tailored to specific laboratory needs, working with clients to design workflows around their unique instruments and protocols.
What is the difference between Hudson Robotics, Art Robbins, and Tomtec?
All three are brands under the Hudson umbrella. Hudson Robotics focuses on liquid handling and microplate automation; Art Robbins specializes in protein crystallography and liquid handling; Tomtec is a pioneer in precision laboratory liquid pipetting instruments.
How do I get pricing for Hudson Robotics products?
Hudson Robotics products are sold through direct sales and an authorized distributor network. Contact Hudson at 973-376-7400 or through their website to request a quote or connect with a regional distributor.
