What SmartLab Solutions GmbH does

SmartLab Solutions GmbH is a Dresden, Germany-based full-service provider of laboratory digitalization, founded and led by Dr. Felix Lenk. The company designs and implements end-to-end solutions that replace paper-based and manual laboratory processes with digitally orchestrated workflows, operating on a manufacturer-independent basis across customers' existing instrument infrastructure. Its core offering combines the iHEX® modular laboratory infrastructure — a honeycomb-inspired system of hexagonal workbench elements with a standardized iHEX-Connector — with LABITUDE, a Laboratory Execution System that captures, automates, and coordinates SOP-driven steps and connects via the LADS OPC UA-based interface standard to LIMS/ELN systems. Add-on modules include the iHEX-bench-stir (up to 90 stirring positions), pH-Station, Cobot-AI Sample Sorting (vision-guided ABB GoFa cobot), Mixed Reality Lab (Microsoft HoloLens), iCONTROL, and wireless Sens-o-Spheres IoT temperature sensors developed with TU Dresden spin-off amensio.

The company serves four primary customer segments: research and industrial laboratories across chemical, physical, biological, pharmaceutical, food, and environmental sectors (primary); life sciences and biotechnology; food and beverage testing; and pathology and clinical labs. Revenue is generated through custom-quoted, project-based sales of consulting, planning, implementation, equipment integration, and training services, with no public pricing tiers disclosed. Go-to-market is direct enterprise sales supplemented by an active trade-show presence at analytica (Munich), ACHEMA (Frankfurt), and LABVOLUTION (Hannover), plus co-marketing with a 20+ partner ecosystem that includes Universal Robots (Certified System Integrator since analytica 2024), ABB, Mettler Toledo, DÜPERTHAL, KNAUER, Thermo Fisher, SmarAct, LAUDA, Labforward, FLUICS, essentim, and Qualitype.

The privately held company has not disclosed revenue, headcount, or external funding. Operational scale is inferred from a single Dresden headquarters, a named leadership team of four (CEO, Business Development, Head of iHEX Product Development, Head of Software Development), a continuous cadence of product launches from 2022 through 2026, and a European (DACH-led) geographic focus. The business model is essentially a specialized systems-integration and workflow-software firm, with software (LABITUDE, LADS, iCONTROL) layered on proprietary hardware (iHEX system and modules) and a partner-led go-to-market.

Name

SmartLab Solutions GmbH

Legal name

SmartLab Solutions GmbH

Website

https://smartlab-solutions.de

Company type

Private

Founded year

2021

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

SmartLab Solutions GmbH is a Dresden-based full-service provider of laboratory digitalization, offering the modular iHEX hardware system, the LABITUDE Laboratory Execution System, and the LADS OPC UA interface standard to research, life-science, food-testing, and clinical laboratories across Europe on a custom project basis.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Laboratory Digitalization Services

NAICS

Computer Systems Design and Related Services (54151), Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516)

SIC

Services-Computer Integrated Systems Design (7373), Laboratory Analytical Instruments (3826), Laboratory Apparatus & Furniture (3821)

akta.pro primary industry

Lab Automation, Instrument Control & Workflow Orchestration Software (HLAGAJAG)

akta.pro secondary industries

Lab Middleware, Instrument Connectivity & Automation (HLACAMAI), Lab Data Exchange & Interoperability (HL7/FHIR/LDT Results Delivery) (HLACAMAL), Digital Process Automation (DPA) & Orchestration Suites (HDAEAHAF), Factory Automation & Control Systems (PLC/SCADA/DCS) (IMAIAMAA)

Keywords

• Laboratory digitalization
• Lab automation systems
• Process control software
• Modular lab infrastructure
• Laboratory execution systems

Headquarters

HQ city

Dresden

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Lab Digitalization Solutions & Services: Full-service provider offering comprehensive lab digitalization including consultation, planning, implementation, and equipment setup. Revenue generated through custom solution sales and implementation services for laboratories seeking complete digital transformation.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels1 record

Marketing channels4 records

Core offering

SmartLab Solutions GmbH is a full-service provider for laboratory digitalization that implements analysis devices into digital workflows, replacing paper-based and manual processes. The offering is built around the proprietary iHEX modular laboratory infrastructure system and the LABITUDE Laboratory Execution System (LES) for guided workflows and process control. The company delivers vendor-independent integration of laboratory equipment across chemical, physical, and biological laboratories, complemented by consultation, planning, implementation, and training services.

Product overview

SmartLab Solutions GmbH offers a modular laboratory digitalization ecosystem centered around two core products: the iHEX-System (a flexible, honeycomb-structured laboratory infrastructure with hexagonal workbench elements and standardized connectors) and LABITUDE (a Laboratory Execution System for guided workflows and process control). These are complemented by specialized modules including iHEX-bench-stir (stirring workbench), pH-Station (integrated measurement), and Cobot-AI Sample Sorting (vision-guided robotics), as well as the LADS (OPC UA-based interface standard) for seamless LIMS connectivity. The complete offering includes full-service lab automation from analysis through implementation, all delivered vendor-independently.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• iHEX: Modular laboratory system for flexible and function-integrated analytical devices
• LABITUDE
• iHEX-bench-stir
• Cobot-AI Sample Sorting

Products and services

• iHEX-System Modular laboratory infrastructure system featuring honeycomb-shaped hexagonal workbench elements enabling flexible, function-integrated laboratory layouts. The system provides standardized iHEX-Connector for process-driven device arrangements across chemical, physical, and biological laboratories, with optimal space utilization of cost-intensive infrastructure.
• LABITUDE Laboratory Execution System (LES) and process control system that systematically guides users through laboratory workflows by digitally capturing, automating, and coordinating all relevant steps. Ensures efficient, standardized, and error-free processes with seamless LIMS connectivity.
• iHEX-bench-stir Function-integrated laboratory workbench specifically designed for stirring and mixing tasks, equipped with touchscreen control, ID scanner integration, up to 90 stirring positions, and the iHEX sandwich structure with glass ceramic top plate.
• pH-Station Integrated pH measurement station with seamless function integration featuring an integrated magnetic stirrer, touch display, pH electrode, and LED status lights for intuitive workflow and visible device status, with direct LIMS/ELN connectivity for seamless documentation.
• Cobot-AI Sample Sorting Computer vision and AI-guided collaborative robot system for automated sample preparation in flexible laboratory infrastructure. Uses a 6-axis ABB GoFa cobot with 2+ dimensional camera for object recognition and sample sorting, including exact location, orientation, and height detection.
• Mixed Reality Lab Augmented reality laboratory solution using Microsoft HoloLens for hands-free workflow guidance, real-time device status display, step-by-step process instructions, voice/gesture control, and remote expert support through live transmission.
• LADS (Laboratory and Analytical Device Standard) OPC UA-based laboratory interface standard enabling automated, quality-assured consolidation of device and sensor data directly into LIMS systems, from sample receipt to final results, supporting manufacturer-independent device connectivity.
• Complete Lab Automation Service Full-service laboratory digitalization engagement from process analysis through planning, implementation, equipment setup, and training. Includes vendor-independent integration of analysis equipment into digital workflows, replacing paper-based and manual processes, and delivered as a complete digitalization project.

Named customers1 record

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles2 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration12 records

AI capability2 records

Feature8 records

Partnerships

22 partnerships are on record, tiered core, secondary and minor.

• Universal RobotscoreTechnology or Integration · 1 April 2024Certified System Integrator (CSI) status achieved at analytica 2024. Provides integration of Universal Robots cobots (UR5e, UR7e, UR10e) into iHEX laboratory systems for collaborative automation applications.
• ABBcoreTechnology or Integration · 1 January 2024Integration of ABB GoFa collaborative robots (6-axis, 5kg payload, 0.95m range) for sample sorting, preparation, and laboratory automation tasks within iHEX infrastructure.
• Mettler ToledocoreTechnology or IntegrationIntegration of UV photometers, titrators (Excellence T7 with LabX software), precision density instruments, and analytical devices into digitized laboratory workflows.
• 2mag AGcoreTechnology or IntegrationIndustrial magnetic stirrers (MIXdrive 15, magDrive15) with MIXcontrol integration for process-controlled stirring within iHEX system. Supports thick vessel bottoms and double-jacketed vessels.
• DÜPERTHAL SicherheitstechnikcoreTechnology or IntegrationConnected lab safety cabinets with real-time inventory management (DÜPERTHAL connect), temperature/exhaust monitoring, and SealSafe waste sealing integration.
• essentim GmbHcoreTechnology or IntegrationWireless sensor systems (Spot, Spider, Sphere) for monitoring temperature, pH, humidity, light, and oxygen parameters in laboratory environments. Transmit data via LADS interface.
• LAUDAsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationUNIVERSA circulating bath thermostats for precise temperature control. Integration with LAUDA.LIVE and Command Professional app for remote monitoring and process control.
• KNAUERsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationHPLC systems with PurityChrom control software featuring barcode scanning and solvent level monitoring for automated, sustainable preparative HPLC workflows.
• INTEGRIS LIMS / iLIMScoreTechnology or IntegrationIntegration of INTEGRIS LIMS for consistent data aggregation, workflow control, and Laboratory Execution System capabilities within digital laboratory environments.
• LabforwardsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationLabOperator integration for user-guided workflow steps with high reproducibility of results through software-supported process guidance.
• FLUICSsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationSmart labeling systems (FLUICS CONNECT) for sample tracking, inventory management, and forgery-proof label printing with hazardous symbols.
• SCHMIDT + HAENSCHsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationVariRef refractometers for high-precision liquid and solid sample measurement with multi-point calibration, integrated into digitized quality control workflows.
• Qualitype GmbHsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationSAMPLES laboratory software for managing complete processes from beer sampling through final analysis results.
• Gerstel GmbHsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationTD Core technology for innovative sample analysis with fast and precise results, integrated into beer analysis workflows.
• Thermo Fisher ScientificsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationSpinnaker robot microplate mover for self-correcting precision and sample tracking, combined with MTP hotel and retractable incubator for vertical storage within iHEX system.
• United Robotics GroupsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationKEVIN autonomous laboratory robot for logistics of samples and solvents, supporting sustainable HPLC processes.
• Fraunhofer IPAsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationDevelopment of KEVIN collaborative laboratory robot with intuitive teaching interface for microtiter plate logistics.
• Better Basics LaborbedarfsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationSmartRack modular organization system for laboratory workstations, helping organize lab accessories and making them available where needed.
• KreatiVRaum GmbHsecondaryStrategic or Co-development PartnerJoint development of Mixed Reality laboratory experience for Labvolution 2023, enabling virtual laboratory configuration and interactive optimization.
• amensio GmbHsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationSens-o-Spheres smart wireless liquid temperature sensors (0.5g) developed at TU Dresden for real-time core temperature measurement.
• SmarActsecondaryTechnology or IntegrationHigh-precision piezo-based nanopositioning technology for cell culture automation, ensuring unparalleled precision and reproducibility.
• NARCISS & TAURUSminorOthersCorporate design and branding services provider.

Scale indicators1 record

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Broad incumbents

• Agilent Technologies: Broad analytical instrument and informatics company offering OpenLab CDS, SLIMS, and lab automation solutions. Competes broadly with SmartLab for analytical lab digitalization budgets in pharmaceutical and food testing.
• Thermo Fisher Scientific: Global life sciences leader offering SampleManager LIMS, lab automation instruments, and integration services. Already partners with SmartLab (Spinnaker robot microplate mover) but also competes as a broad incumbent across the full lab digitalization stack.
• Eppendorf: German-headquartered global lab equipment manufacturer offering liquid handling, sample preparation, and cell handling automation. Competes for laboratory process automation budgets and overlaps with SmartLab's iHEX modular infrastructure concept.

Direct peers

• Tecan: Swiss manufacturer of laboratory automation instruments, readers, and workflow software for life sciences and diagnostics. Directly competes in modular lab automation, sample preparation, and workflow integration adjacent to SmartLab's iHEX/cobot offering.
• Abbott Informatics (STARLIMS): Provides STARLIMS laboratory information management system with workflow control, sample tracking, and integration capabilities. Directly competes for the same LES/LIMS digitalization budgets as SmartLab.
• Hamilton Company: Provides automated liquid handling workstations, robotic sample preparation systems, and laboratory process software. Directly competes with SmartLab in modular lab automation and workflow orchestration for research and clinical labs.
• LabVantage Solutions: Enterprise LIMS platform with laboratory execution and workflow orchestration capabilities, widely deployed in regulated industries. Directly competes with SmartLab's LABITUDE/LADS offering for end-to-end lab digitalization.
• LabWare: Global LIMS/LES vendor providing laboratory execution systems and informatics across pharma, food, and environmental labs. Directly competes with SmartLab's LABITUDE LES offering for laboratory digitalization projects.

Emerging players

• Labforward: European startup providing electronic lab notebook (ELN) and LabOperator workflow management software. Already a SmartLab technology partner (LabOperator integration) but also an emerging competitor in the lab digitalization software layer.

Regional players

• Analytik Jena: German-based manufacturer of analytical instruments, sample preparation automation, and laboratory software. A regional competitor serving similar DACH market customers as SmartLab, particularly for environmental and food testing labs.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks7 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/smartlab-solutions
• Xx.com/SmartLabSltns
• Facebookfacebook.com/smartlabsolutionsgmbh

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about SmartLab Solutions GmbH