Hamilton Vantage

A modular, space-efficient lab platform that streamlines sample processing
As laboratories demand higher throughput in tighter spaces, Hamilton sought a liquid handling system that balances sophistication and flexibility. The challenge: create a modular platform that maximizes storage, seamlessly integrates hardware, and supports easy transport—without sacrificing performance or usability.

Modular precision for compact lab environments

Technician loading samples into Hamilton Vantage, designed by RKS Design to optimize liquid handling for streamlined lab workflows.
We began with ethnographic studies and stakeholder interviews to understand lab professionals’ needs around space constraints, workflow bottlenecks, and emotional factors like ease-of-use and perceived control. Using Psycho‑Aesthetics®, we quantified the optimal user experience zone—balancing precision with empowering design.

Research Insights & Discovery

KEY OUTPUTS

Workflow maps of sample processing and tool changeover
Emotional journey insights around operation
Benchmarking
Design opportunity brief

How We Used Psycho-Aesthetics™ to Identify Unique Opportunities in the Project.

Using our proprietary Psycho-Aesthetics® 2.0 framework, we conducted in-depth interviews and ethnographic observation in diverse lab settings. We identified key emotional and usability pain points — such as intimidation with complex interfaces, workspace clutter, and trust in precision. These insights guided both the form and interface strategy, ensuring approachability and confidence in operation.

Visual grid showing lab automation design process using P/A to improve modularity, usability, and scientific workflow clarity.
Our team explored form factors that merge modular trays, component integration, and user access. Key design considerations included intuitive placement for pipetting, clear serviceable zones, and stackable architecture for flexible lab layouts.

Industrial Design Concept Development

KEY OUTPUTS

Form Factor Concepts
CMF Strategy
Refined Industrial Design Language
High-tech laboratory automation system with glass-panel enclosure and precision robotics inside
Open configuration view of the Hamilton Vantage automated liquid handling platform, emphasizing RKS Design’s modular approach to storage and engineering
Two Hamilton Vantage automation systems side by side to show scalability and modularity
We created intuitive interface systems that guide users through configuration, status monitoring, and maintenance tasks. Physical UI elements were designed with clarity and lab hygiene in mind, ensuring operators can quickly reconfigure modules or respond to alerts.

UI/UX Design Development

KEY OUTPUTS

Interactive UI wireframes
Comprehensive Clickable prototypes
Styleguide
Light mode UI of Hamilton Vantage, displaying automation controls and real-time monitoring
Dark mode UI of Hamilton Vantage automation software, enhancing workflow efficiency
Hamilton Vantage exemplifies transformative lab automation—merging modular design, user experience, and engineered excellence into a compact, powerful system. From insight-driven research to certified manufacturing handoff, this collaboration reflects RKS Design’s capability to elevate technical platforms into emotionally resonant, space-saving laboratory solutions.

Key Outcomes and Results

Key Accomplishments

Users report intuitive control and “empowered workflows,”
30% denser lab layouts and simplified reconfiguration
Delivering consistent user feedback on usability and space-optimization
Hamilton Vantage in a laboratory environment, designed by RKS Design with modular components to maximize lab space and efficiency
Hamilton Vantage automated liquid handling system by RKS Design in a laboratory setting, featuring a sleek design to enhance workflow integration

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