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.

Automation was central to the challenge. VANTAGE needed to intelligently orchestrate complex liquid handling tasks with precision and repeatability, all while integrating seamlessly with hardware modules, storage systems, and lab information management software.

Modular precision for compact lab environments

Client

Markets

What We Did

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.

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

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

VENUS Software

Interactive UI wireframes

Comprehensive Clickable prototypes

Styleguide

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.

Strategy

Design

Development