What We Delivered

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Key Objectives

Vapourtec is the world’s leading manufacturer of laboratory-scale flow chemistry instruments. Having collaborated on several successful projects, DesignEdge was the natural partner to bring design expertise to its latest instrument, the Peptide-Builder, an automated benchtop synthesizer. DesignEdge was tasked with defining the industrial design vision, ensuring functional and mechanical components were seamlessly integrated into a cohesive, recognisable brand identity. The objectives required the instrument to be highly intuitive, allowing users to operate complex workflows and automated processes with ease. Compact and space-efficient to fit within standard laboratory fume hoods, ergonomics were central, from interface placement to access panels for maintenance. The industrial design language was to convey precision, reliability, and innovation, reflecting Vapourtec’s position as a market leader in laboratory instrumentation.

Result

DesignEdge worked closely with Vapourtec’s mechanical, electronic engineers and scientific team to develop a range of industrial design concepts, exploring product architecture and aesthetic form. Advanced CAD technology was used to detail large-scale parts for RIM tooling, while additive manufacturing enabled fine-tuning of complex components, maintaining mechanical performance, chemical resistance, and readiness for volume production. Launched at TIDES Europe in Hamburg, Peptide-Builder is the smallest high-throughput synthesizer on the market, delivering more peptides per square meter of lab space while minimising reagent consumption. Its compact footprint, ergonomic interfaces, and ease of servicing support efficient laboratory workflows. The instrument is a game-changer for peptide synthesis by improving efficiency, optimising workflows, and reducing space requirements, encapsulated within a visually compelling and cohesive form factor.

“Design Edge worked closely with our mechanical, electronic engineers and scientists at Vapourtec, providing aesthetic design input from early concept sketches through to tooling-ready CAD data. They then collaborated seamlessly with the moulder right through to the first off mould stage. Alasdair and Bruce were knowledgeable, professional, and delivered on time. Their eye for shape, colour, and texture is excellent — we are delighted with the final product.”

Duncan GuthrieDirector, Vapourtec Ltd
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Look Inside

Revolutionising Peptide Synthesis – A Game-changer for Efficiency, Precision, and Workflow.

Peptide-Builder is a compact, automated instrument for solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS). Leveraging advanced flow chemistry and specialized reactor technology, it enables high-throughput production of multiple peptides with exceptional purity and yield. Its benchtop form, intuitive software, and reduced solvent consumption make it efficient, sustainable, and lab-friendly. The industrial design combines premium, sophisticated detailing with optimal ergonomics, usability, and aesthetics. DesignEdge delivered a solution that unites advanced functionality with a recognisable brand presence, creating an instrument that meets demanding technical requirements while enhancing the overall user experience.

Accelerating Drug Discovery for Faster Breakthroughs

With leading-edge industrial design, an intuitive touchscreen, and patented features, Peptide-Builder advances custom peptide synthesis. This compact, fully automated system uses advanced flow chemistry to rapidly produce multiple peptides, with continuous in-line analytics providing insights such as resin solvation and UV absorption. High-throughput experimentation (HTE) enables automated synthesis of large compound libraries, which can be screened against therapeutic targets, accelerating the drug discovery process.

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Ergonomic UI Design

13′ touchscreen with Vapourtec intuitive, intelligent peptide sequence generator software with automated side chain modifications for streamlined peptide synthesis. Simply type the alphabetic sequence, select the resin type, specify loading and target mass then queue the synthesis, and the software does all the rest.

Amino Acid Selector

7 positions for unnatural amino acids with a built-in wash station.

Waste Pump Platform

Waste pump allowing waste to be transferred to a convenient location, station holds a 2l piperidine bottle, three 0.5l DIC, DCM and HFIP bottles and has capacity for 10 litres of DMF.

User-Centric Design

Compact and space-saving, the Peptide-Builder features a striking industrial design with a large-scale PU RIM enclosure and precision additive-manufactured components.

Resin Cartridge Carousel

Resins are pre-loaded into barcoded cartridges for sequential synthesis in a safe and easy to use automated loading and unloading of resins and completed peptides.

Variable Bed Flow Reactor

Patented VBFR™ technology for peptide synthesis enabling fast-flow SPPS for high-purity, high-yield peptides.

Turntable With Identification

20 bottles for natural amino acids in a safe and easy to use automated system, the Peptide-Builder offers continuous in-line analytics, delivering deep insights into each synthesis.