Next-generation high-throughput screening with zenCELL owl

Enables live-cell imaging for 96- and 384-well plates in large-scale applications.

The zenCELL owl develops further.
Together with Cybertron Berlin we have developed a movable unit that the imaging capabilities of the zenCELL owl on High-throughput formats expanded.

This new module allows automated scanning and analysis of 96- and potentially 384-well plates, so that researchers can perform large-scale screenings with the same flexibility and precision for which the zenCELL owl is known.

Thanks to Stitching function can now also be fully captured, even smaller well plates – and thus deliver comprehensive, high-resolution overviews of your cell cultures.

Visualization

Step 1 – Initialisation (0–20 s)

24 images captured in 20 seconds – Quadrant 1 complete.

Step 2 – Transition (22–42 s)

2-second movement to Quadrant 2.

Step 3 – Continued (44–64 s)

The continuous image acquisition continues – Quadrant 2 complete.

Step 4 – Conclusion (66–86 s)

All 96 wells have been captured – ready for stitching and analysis.

Overview – Seconds 0–20

Overview – Seconds 22–42

Overview – Second 44–64

Overview – Seconds 66–86

Key features

96- & 384-Well Compatibility

Developed for high-throughput experiments and multi-parameter assays.

Automated movement unit

The automated motion unit has been designed for seamless integration into standardised and bespoke robotic laboratory environments. It supports the most common liquid handling and screening systems, including platforms from Hamilton, Beckman Coulter and Tecan.

Thanks to the flexible interface and a precise control system, the module enables fully automated workflows – from slide handling and positioning to real-time imaging – without compromising on reproducibility or throughput.

This makes the zenCELL owl ideally suited for integration into high-throughput screening pipelines, drug discovery processes, and automated cell culture environments.

Image stitching function

Several image fields are automatically merged into a complete, high-resolution overall image of the entire plate.

Adaptive Software Integration

The zenCELL owl software is continuously being optimised for this module – in close collaboration with our users.

Customer-oriented development

Your feedback directly influences the future development and expansion of our software.

Collaboration and Optimisation

This innovation was developed in Partnership with Cybertron Berlin develops and combines advanced motion control with intelligent imaging technology of the zenCELL owl.

We believe in Co-creation with our users – this is why the software is continuously developed and closely aligned with our research and the requirements of modern laboratories.

Every lab setup is unique. That's why we develop zenCELL owl together with our partners and customers, so that the system optimally adapts to your workflows.

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Integration into existing workflows

The new High-throughput module integrates seamlessly into existing zenCELL owl Integrate setups – including the Scratch-Maker for migration assays and further end-to-end workflows.

This combination now allows:

  • Automated Imaging complete 96- or 384-well plates
  • Quantitative analysis of wound healing or cell growth across all wells
  • AI-powered analysis and documentation for research, quality assurance and drug screening

Technical Overview

The Automated movement unit operates on a precise XYZ motion system,enabling both horizontal scanning and vertical focusing for advanced applications.

  • Bewegungsart XYZ – high-precision linear motion
  • Z-axis resolution: 10 µm – optimised for monitoring and screening of 3D cell cultures and organoid models
  • Compatibility: Supports integration with standard robotic systems, including Hamilton, Beckman Coulter, and Tecan

This ensures full flexibility for automated high-throughput screenings, 3D imaging workflows, and live monitoring of complex cell structures — all while maintaining consistent optical alignment and reproducibility.

6-, 24-, 96- and 384-well plates.

Brightfield (standard); compatible with future AI extensions.

Integrated with the zenCELL owl Software Suite.

1 mm² per image.

Dimensions & Design

The automated adapter frame is designed as a compact, benchtop-compatible unit, easily integrated into existing laboratory setups and incubator environments.

Dimensions:
📏 468.5 × 300.5 × 141.8 mm (L × W × H)

Despite its compact size, the system offers a large active imaging area for 96 and 384-well plates and ensures stable positioning, vibration-free movement, as well as precise XYZ control during each imaging cycle.

The lightweight and modular design allows for seamless integration into Workflows for Labour Automation and makes the system ideal for High-Throughput Imaging, Screening and Long-Term Live-Cell Monitoring.

Be among the first to experience the high-throughput module for the zenCELL owl.

Become part of our beta testing group and help shape the next generation of automated live-cell imaging.

Request a demo