The automated work bench (aWB) is a modular platform. On the one hand controlled rate freezing can be performed. On the other hand you can use the cryogenic parking area in combination with cherry picking robot to handle samples from existing sample collection in a fully automated way. The aWB has also various interfaces to be linked to e.g. liquid handler to enable a fully automated sample process or to a carrier system for ultra-cold sample transfer aligning with a permanent cooling chain.