Reviewed by Lexie CornerApr 9 2025
Researchers at Hokkaido University, led by Professor Keisuke Takahashi, have developed the Flowing Liquid Utilizing Interactive Device (FLUID), an open-source robot designed using 3D-printed parts and readily available electronic components. The study highlights FLUID as a cost-effective and adaptable platform for automated material synthesis, with the potential to democratize access to advanced scientific research.
Different views of the FLUID (Flowing Liquid Utilizing Interactive Device) open-source robotic system: (a) front view, (b) rear view, (c) rear view with the wiring of the control circuit exposed, and (d) side view. Image Credit: Mikael N. Kuwahara, et al. ACS Applied Engineering Materials.
To demonstrate FLUID's capabilities, the research team used the robot to automate the co-precipitation of cobalt and nickel, successfully creating binary materials with high accuracy and efficiency.
By adopting open source, utilizing a 3D printer, and taking advantage of commonly-available electronics, it became possible to construct a functional robot that is customized to a particular set of needs at a fraction of the costs typically associated with commercially-available robots.
Mikael Kuwahara, Study Lead Author, Hokkaido University
FLUID's hardware consists of four separate modules, each containing a syringe, two valves, a servo motor to operate the valves, and a stepper motor for precise control of the syringe plunger. Each module is equipped with a sensor to detect when the syringe is fully filled. These modules are connected to microcontroller boards that receive instructions from a computer via USB.
The system also includes user-friendly software to manage the robot's operations, such as adjusting valves and moving syringes, while providing live updates on its status and sensor readings.
The researchers have made the design files freely available, enabling scientists worldwide to replicate or adapt the robot for their specific experimental needs. By offering an open-source, 3D-printable alternative to expensive commercial robots, FLUID has the potential to enable a broader range of researchers to conduct automated experiments in materials science.
This could be particularly beneficial for researchers in resource-limited environments or those working in specialized fields where commercial options may be scarce or prohibitively expensive. With a customizable design that can be printed using readily available components, FLUID offers a cost-effective solution for performing complex experiments without significant upfront investment.
This approach aims to democratize automation in material synthesis, providing researchers with a practical, cost-effective solution to accelerate innovation in materials science.
Keisuke Takahashi, Professor, Hokkaido University
In the future, the researchers plan to add more sensors to monitor additional factors such as temperature and pH. This will expand the robot's ability to handle a broader range of chemical reactions, including polymer blending and organic synthesis.
The software will also be further developed to include features like macro recording, which simplifies repetitive tasks, and enhanced data logging, which improves the reliability and analysis of experimental data.
FLUID (Flowing Liquid Utilizing Interactive Device) in operation
The open-source robotic system FLUID (Flowing Liquid Utilizing Interactive Device) in operation. Video Credit: Keisuke Takahashi.
Journal Reference:
Kuwahara, M., et al. (2025) Development of an Open-Source 3D-Printed Material Synthesis Robot FLUID: Hardware and Software Blueprints for Accessible Automation in Materials Science. American Chemical Society. doi/10.1021/acsaenm.5c00084?goto=supporting-info