Every detail of a new product is based on a simple question: What do users really need in the laboratory? What are their goals, and how can we help them accomplish their tasks smoothly?

When developing the latest orbital shaker, the Hei-SHAKE Orbital Expert, we focused on three key aspects:
 

Usability is Not a Feature. It is a Prerequisite.

Even with seemingly undermanding laboratory shakers, individual challenges must be solved. The more complex the tasks, e.g., RCF calculator, ramp programming, the simpler the operation must be in order to continue working quickly and efficiently. Our standards for design and user-friendliness were therefore high. Our idea of an intuitive user interface using only pictograms was born. However, touchscreens are often considered problematic, especially in the laboratory environment: delayed responses, limited usability with gloves, unnecessary dialog boxes, and too many menu levels. That was exactly what we wanted to avoid.

The key was extremely low latency. With the Hei-SHAKE Orbital Expert orbital shaker, the display responds immediately when the speed is adjusted. Using a slider, the speed can be increased or decreased within a few seconds. For added safety, a minimum and maximum speed can even be set to work within the desired speed range.

We didn't compromise on start-up times either. Nobody wants to wait long – not even for a minute – for the device to be ready for use. The Hei-SHAKE Orbital Expert is ready for use in less than two seconds. The only thing that takes longer is our logo.

We also thought about seamless functional integration. Instead of providing additional calculators or tables, we have integrated important application-specific functions for laboratory users directly where they are needed. For example, instead of using a separate RCF calculator, you simply enter the desired RCF value—the appropriate speed is automatically calculated and applied. Fewer steps, fewer sources of error, more focus on the actual work.

After all, every function should do exactly what you expect it to do. That's why we let numerous test subjects work without instruction. Most of them completed all tasks within a short time.

Robust, Precise, and Innovative

At the heart of every Hei-SHAKE device is our own motor control system. It enables exceptionally efficient and precise control.

Efficient And Patented – The Drive Concept Behind Our New Laboratory Shakers.

The movement of the shaking platform of a laboratory shaker is generated by various motor technologies. The movement pattern varies depending on the device - from orbital (circular) to vibrating, reciprocating (back and forth) to tumbling or rocking. Our new Hei-SHAKE shaker series sets new standards in this area: thanks to an innovative, patented drive concept, it combines maximum performance with progress and sustainability. 

A Motor Tailored to Your Requirements

At the heart of the Hei-SHAKE series is a specially developed motor that offers the advantages and functionality of a server motor, providing maximum precision, control, and efficiency. It enables finely adjustable control while continuously monitoring speed and position, eliminating the need for calibration. 

The motor responds extremely quickly to control commands and can change its direction of rotation in a very short time - ideal for applications with changing requirements. Despite its compact design, it delivers high torque and constant performance - perfectly suited for the limited installation space in laboratory shakers. 

The motor also scores points for energy efficiency when idling it only consumes power when actively regulated. Precise control and integrated protection mechanisms guarantee longevity and operational reliability - even in demanding continuous applications. 

Thanks to load-dependent optimized power consumption, the system is particularly energy-efficient: it only uses as much energy as is actually needed, resulting in high efficiency, low self-heating, and minimal speed fluctuations, comparable to the precision of an industrial robot.

Every day, over 300 automated hardware tests run on our systems. In addition, there are hundreds of module tests in different environments. Some of these tests are deliberately destructive. We deliberately push mechanics and electronics to their limits to know exactly what the device can do—and where those limits lie. This enables us to provide sound advice, even if applications outside the specification are planned. If you manage to destroy a Hei-SHAKE Orbital Expert in the lab, please let us know. We've run out of ideas.

 Thought out Down to the Latest Detail

From a developer's perspective, the Hei-SHAKE Orbital Expert is a future-proof device – deliberately designed to be open for individual requirements. It provides a robust basis for sophisticated functions such as very low speeds (1–15 rpm), finely adjustable ramps, and remote control via RS232. Thanks to its modular architecture, extensions can be integrated on request—such as Ethernet, digital or analog inputs and outputs, or additional sensors. Additional flexibility and safety functions can be added with each software update.

The possibilities are virtually endless. The Hei-SHAKE Orbital Expert was developed not only as a robust device, but also as a starting point for new ideas. For us, Living in motion means more than just movement in the laboratory—it means further development through engineering thinking.

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