opentrons-gripper

Automate labware movement between deck slots and modules on Opentrons Flex.

34|7|Updated Nov 29, 2025

Search Tags:#offsets #gripper #lab automation #opentrons #deck-to-deck

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/jkitchin/skillz --skill opentrons-gripper

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: opentrons-gripper
Source: https://github.com/jkitchin/skillz/tree/main/skills/laboratory/opentrons-gripper
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jkitchin/skillz --skill opentrons-gripper

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

The Opentrons Gripper enables fully automated, hands-free labware movement across deck locations, modules, waste chutes, and off-deck storage. It eliminates manual plate transfers and reduces protocol pauses, enabling complex workflows to run uninterrupted.

Core Features & Use Cases

Automated labware movement: Transfer plates, reservoirs, and tip racks between deck slots and modules without user intervention.
Offset-enabled positioning: Apply pick-up and drop offsets for precise placements and collision avoidance.
Module and storage integration: Move labware to/from temperature, heater-shaker, and off-deck storage to optimize deck space.

Quick Start

In a protocol, call the gripper to move a plate from C1 to D2 with an optional pick_up_offset of {"x":0,"y":0,"z":2} and drop_offset of {"x":0,"y":0,"z":1} to ensure accurate seating.

Frequently Asked Questions about opentrons-gripper

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I automate labware movement between deck locations on an Opentrons Flex?▼

Automated labware movement on Opentrons Flex uses the gripper to transfer plates, reservoirs, and tip racks between deck slots and modules without manual intervention. Call protocol.move_labware with precise deck coordinates and optional pick_up_offset and drop_offset parameters for accurate positioning. Requires API version 2.15 or later.

What are pick_up_offset and drop_offset, and why do I need them?▼

Pick_up_offset and drop_offset are coordinate adjustments applied during gripper movements to ensure precise placement and collision avoidance. Pick_up_offset lifts labware slightly before transit; drop_offset positions it accurately on target modules or deck slots. Both use x, y, z coordinates in millimeters.

Can I move labware to modules, waste chutes, and off-deck storage with the gripper?▼

Yes, the gripper supports moving labware to temperature modules, heater-shaker modules, waste chutes, and off-deck storage locations. This enables hands-free protocol execution across the full deck ecosystem, eliminating pauses and manual plate transfers.

Does the gripper work with Opentrons OT-2 systems?▼

No, the gripper is exclusive to Opentrons Flex systems. OT-2 does not support gripper-based labware movement; manual transfers or alternative automation methods are required for OT-2 protocols.

What labware types can the gripper move?▼

The gripper moves plates, reservoirs, and tip racks between deck slots, modules, waste chutes, and storage. Labware must be compatible with Flex hardware; exact compatibility depends on gripper jaw design and labware dimensions.

How do I specify deck slot locations for gripper movements?▼

Deck slot locations are specified using coordinate-based notation (e.g., C1, D2) in protocol.move_labware calls. Combine slot designation with optional offsets to control precise pickup and drop positions across the deck.