Fully Automated, Modular Testing System for Advanced Material Characterisation

The SmartLab is a fully automated, modular testing laboratory designed to perform a wide range of physical material tests with exceptional repeatability, traceability, and efficiency.

Combining advanced robotics, intelligent software, and proven Bareiss testing technology, the SmartLab automates the complete testing workflow — from specimen handling and identification through to measurement, evaluation, and data management.

A flexible modular architecture allows the system to be configured for different testing requirements, sample geometries, and laboratory environments. With automated specimen handling, intelligent error management, and minimal operator influence, the SmartLab delivers consistent, reliable results around the clock.

Standards

• DIN ISO 48-4
• ASTM D2240
• DIN 53504
• ISO 2781
• DIN EN ISO 1183-1
• ASTM D1817

Applications

The SmartLab is designed for automated physical testing of:

• O-rings
• Standardised test specimens
• Seals (limited applications)
• Soft rubber materials
• Highly elastic materials
• Plastically deformable materials

Typical applications include:

• Material research and development
• Production quality control
• Batch testing
• Automated laboratory testing
• Long-term material performance evaluation

Product Overview

Modern automated testing laboratories require both standardised processes and the flexibility to accommodate different testing methods and sample types. The SmartLab combines these requirements through a modular system architecture that can be customised to suit individual applications.

At the centre of the SmartLab is a high-performance 6-axis industrial robot equipped with a flexible gripper system. The robot automatically identifies, transports, and positions specimens at the appropriate testing stations using intelligent software developed by Bareiss.

Different sample geometries can be integrated easily, allowing the system to perform multiple test procedures within a single automated platform.

A key development focus of the SmartLab is intelligent error handling. The system can independently identify many operational issues, resolve certain situations with user approval, and provide clear recommendations to assist operators when intervention is required.

The result is a testing laboratory that provides outstanding measurement consistency, high data traceability, and significantly reduced operator dependency — a system designed to work continuously and reliably.

Modular Testing System

The SmartLab is built on a robust welded steel frame with a standardised hardware and electronics interface, allowing additional testing modules to be integrated as requirements evolve.

A typical SmartLab configuration includes:

• Hardness testing module
• Density measurement module
• Thickness measurement module
• Tensile testing module for S2 specimens
• Tensile testing module for R1 rings
• Robotic handling system
• Sample feeding module
• BareissOne SL software platform

Additional modules can be added to expand testing capability.

Key Features

Fully Automated Robotic Sample Handling

The SmartLab uses an industrial 6-axis robot to automate specimen movement throughout the testing process.

The advanced handling system includes:

• Flexible gripper technology
• Camera-based specimen identification
• Automatic sample positioning
• Automated tool changes for different specimen types
• Tray handling and individual specimen placement

The robot can transport complete sample trays or handle individual specimens with precision, ensuring efficient and reliable workflow automation.

Automated Hardness Testing Module

The SmartLab incorporates the proven Bareiss digi test II hardness testing system for automated hardness measurements.

The module supports standard-compliant hardness testing with configurable:

• Measurement positions
• Number of measurements per sample
• Test spacing
• Sample configurations

Supported standards:

• DIN ISO 48-4
• ASTM D2240

Available hardness testing methods include the comprehensive range supported by the digi test II platform.

Tensile Testing Module – R1 Rings

The SmartLab can integrate automated tensile testing for R1 ring specimens.

The system includes:

• Automated specimen handling
• Integrated thickness measurement support
• Automated test preparation and transfer

Testing is performed according to:

• DIN 53504

Tensile Testing Module – S2 Rod Specimens

For S2 rod specimens, the SmartLab integrates automated tensile testing with supporting thickness measurement.

The module provides:

• Automated specimen positioning
• Repeatable test preparation
• Consistent measurement workflow

Testing is performed according to:

• DIN 53504

Automated Density Measurement Module

The SmartLab performs automated density measurement using the buoyancy method.

The process measures specimen mass:

• In air
• After immersion in water or ethanol

The robot uses a dual-gripper system to separate wet and dry samples during testing, improving workflow efficiency and reducing contamination risks.

Supported standards:

• ISO 2781
• DIN EN ISO 1183-1
• ASTM D1817

Sample Feeding Module

The sample feeding module provides the interface between operator and automated system.

Specimens are prepared individually and placed into sample trays, allowing the SmartLab to automatically process testing sequences without continuous operator involvement.

Benefits include:

• Simple sample loading
• Defined sample organisation
• Continuous automated operation
• Reduced handling errors

BareissOne SL Software Platform

Intelligent Control, Data Management and Traceability

The proprietary BareissOne SL software controls the complete SmartLab operation while managing all measurement and sample data.

The platform provides:

User Management

• Controlled access levels
• Individual user administration

Sample and Material Management

• Creation of material profiles
• Customisable sample labels
• Sample tracking and identification

Testing Process Control

• Management of individual testing modules
• Automated workflow control
• Device-specific toolboxes

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Live graphical measurement display
• Historical batch analysis
• Trend identification
• Tolerance evaluation
• Automated reporting

Data Connectivity

Supported interfaces include:

• XML
• ASCII
• SQL database
• Oracle
• Database export functions

BareissOne SL provides complete traceability from specimen loading through to final test results.

Expandable for Future Requirements

One of the key advantages of the SmartLab is its modular expandability.

The system can accommodate up to five additional testing modules, allowing laboratories to increase automation capabilities as testing requirements develop.

This future-ready design ensures that the SmartLab can grow alongside evolving production, research, and quality control needs.

Benefits

• Fully automated physical testing laboratory
• 24/7 repeatable testing capability
• Reduced operator influence and testing errors
• High measurement traceability
• Modular and expandable design
• Supports multiple sample geometries
• Intelligent robotic specimen handling
• Automated hardness, density, thickness, and tensile testing
• Advanced error detection and guidance system
• Complete data management through BareissOne SL
• Custom configurations available

Typical Industries

• Rubber manufacturing
• Automotive
• Seal production
• Polymer processing
• Materials research
• Quality assurance laboratories
• Industrial manufacturing
• Product development laboratories