Guardian 7000: Redefining Safety and Performance in Hotplate Stirrers

Integrating Smart Technology for Enhanced Laboratory Safety

The Guardian 7000 Hotplate-Stirrer is the result of extensive research and analysis conducted by Ohaus. The design team studied competitors, conducted focus groups, and performed market surveys in the United States and Europe. The findings emphasized the importance of safety, leading to the design mission of the Guardian 7000: Think Safer. Think Smart.

What sets the Guardian 7000 apart from other hotplate-stirrers is its unique combination of Smart features and outstanding safety measures. The unit incorporates SmartPresence, SmartLink, SmartRate, SmartHeat, SafetyHeat, and SmartHousing, all powered by state-of-the-art technology. These features ensure precise sample control, while providing peace of mind for operating safely in the lab.

The Guardian 7000 Hotplate-Stirrer is designed with patent-pending safety features that surpass industry standards. The unit's enclosure is made using injection molding of chemically resistant resins, ensuring it stays cool even at a maximum temperature of 500°C. The internal electronics are equipped with automatic safety features, utilizing Bluetooth and infrared technology to protect the user. Additionally, the Guardian 7000 offers best-in-class accuracy and repeatability, thanks to extensive software development driving the electrical system.

Available in three sizes, the Guardian 7000 Hotplate-Stirrer caters to a variety of laboratory needs. The Guardian 7 x 7 measures 223.5mm x 309.9mm x 121.9mm, the Guardian 10 x 10 measures 285.8mm x 414.0mm x 121.9mm, and the Guardian Round Top measures 172.7mm x 266.7mm x 127mm.

Operating the Guardian 7000 is simple and intuitive. Two control knobs allow users to adjust the temperature of the top plate and the speed of the motor. Advanced features can be accessed through a long press of the temperature knob, while the timer can be set with a long press of the speed knob.

The Guardian 7000 project started in September 2017 in Thorofare, New Jersey, and was completed in March 2020. The product launch event took place at Pittcon 2020 in Chicago, marking the official release of the Guardian 7000 Hotplate-Stirrer to distribution hubs.

Ohaus is known for its commitment to research and innovation, and the Guardian 7000 is a testament to their dedication. Extensive market research and analysis paved the way for the inclusion of SmartPresence and SmartLink, which utilize Bluetooth and Infrared technologies to automatically shut off the heater if the user is undetected. The Guardian 7000 also features SafetyHeat technology, which monitors the electronics to prevent overheating. With its powerful motor magnet assembly, the Guardian 7000 offers users the ability to stir a wide array of sample types.

The Guardian 7000 presented several challenges during its development. Upgrading the MMI from an LED display controlled by a membrane switch to a modern LCD display with simple knob control required creative collaboration with marketing and R&D. Designing intuitive icons for the LCD display that represented the Smart features was a task that required careful consideration. The new software designed for simple knob control underwent extensive testing to ensure an easy-to-use unit for a positive customer experience.

With the Guardian 7000 Series Hotplate Stirrers, Ohaus invites laboratories to think safer and smarter. The integration of Smart technology, combined with superior heating and stirring performance, makes the Guardian 7000 a reliable and cost-effective choice for laboratories. Count on the Guardian 7000 Hotplate Stirrers to deliver outstanding safety and performance, ensuring a secure and efficient laboratory environment.

Image Credits: Steve Silvers

Intellectual Property Notice: Patent Pending. US20210094006A1, EP3797868A1, CN112570055A. Trademarks: SmartPresence™, SmartLink™, SmartRate™, SmartHeat™, SafetyHeat™, and SmartHousing™.

Awards and Accolades: The Guardian 7000 Hotplate-Stirrer was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Scientific Instruments and Research Equipment Design category in 2022. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements in various fields.