Orca Legacy
info
You're viewing the documentation for Orca Legacy, version 1.0.0 and earlier. The current version is Orca Framework 2.0.0: see Installation.
Orca Legacy is a laboratory automation scheduler for parallel processing of lab workflows. It coordinates devices (liquid handlers, centrifuges, sealers, robotic arms) and manages labware movement across your system.
Key Features
- Git-Friendly - Workflows are Python code that integrates into your repository
- Parallel Processing - Multiple labware threads run concurrently
- Modular Design - Swap methods, run full workflows or individual methods
- Resource Pools - Dynamic device selection at runtime
- Event System - Subscribe to workflow events for custom integrations
- Python Scripting - Full flexibility with custom async functions
Architecture Overview
Orca organizes automation into a hierarchy:
Workflow
└── Thread (one piece of labware's journey)
└── Method (grouped actions)
└── Action (single device operation)
- Workflows orchestrate multiple threads working together
- Threads define the path one piece of labware takes
- Methods group related actions into sequences
- Actions are individual operations (Shake, Seal, Spin, etc.)
Supported Devices
| Device | Description |
|---|---|
| Venus | Hamilton MLSTAR/Vantage liquid handlers |
| Shaker | Plate shakers (PLR backends) |
| Centrifuge | Centrifuges (PLR backends) |
| Sealer | Plate sealers (PLR backends) |
| Transporter | Robotic arms (PLR backends) |
| HumanTransfer | Manual operations with prompts |
Documentation
- Installation - Get Orca installed
- Quick Start - Run your first workflow
- Architecture - Understand the execution model
- Devices - Configure your instruments
- Transporters - Set up robotic arms and teachpoints
- Actions - Available operations
- Workflows - Build complex automation
Source Code
github.com/Cheshire-Labs/orca at v1.0.0
License
Orca 1.0.0 and earlier are released under the AGPL-3.0 license. Plugins, scripts, and drivers are considered derivatives.
Need Help?
- Issues & Contributions: GitHub Issues
- General Questions: Contact Us
- Custom Development: Contact Cheshire Labs for driver development, setup assistance, or custom scripting