March 2016 Product Focus – Automation | Medical Laboratory Observer

Copan USA’s WASPLab

WASPLab, a sophisticated barcode-driven Microbiology specimen processor and work-up system, connects with WASPDT using a conveyor track. WASPLab moves samples from front end processing to full specimen management, automated incubation, and digital Microbiology. With its modular design and small footprint, WASPLab can be customized to the unique needs of the lab. WASPLab features a robotic plate management system, smart incubators, and state-of-the-art image acquisition technology. “Larger-than-life” images allow for the most accurate result; users have reported finding growth that was hard to see looking at the actual plate. For more information, please visit: http://www.copanusa.com/products/automation/wasplab/

Hologic’s ThinPrep Pap Test

The ThinPrep 5000 Processor and ThinPrep 5000 with Autoloader System from Hologic automate cytology slide processing. The ThinPrep 5000 Processor provides walkaway automation for up to 20 slides in a single run, with automated capping and de-capping of vials and chain-of-custody verification. It completes preparation with direct slide output into stainer-ready racks. The ThinPrep 5000 with Autoloader System combines automation and flexibility, with the capacity to process 160 gyn, non-gyn, or urocyte sample slides in a single run, with up to eight hours of walkaway time. Laser slide etching of barcodes further automates the chain-of-custody process. For more information, please visit: http://www.ThinPrep.com

Hologic’s Panther System

The fully automated Panther system from Hologic streamlines testing with true sample-to-result automation. The Panther system can process 275 samples in eight hours and up to 750 samples in 16 hours. It can perform multiple types of tests from a single patient sample. Primary tubes are loaded and processed directly on the system without manual sample transfer or pipetting. The Panther system has no batching restrictions, allowing for random access loading of samples, reagents and consumables. A bi-directional LIS interface streamlines data management and automatic scheduled maintenance, further reducing hands-on time. For more information, please visit: http://www.hologic.com/products/clinical-diagnostics-and-blood-screening/instrument-systems/panther-system

LGP Consulting’s KapSafe-mini Automated Tube Recapper

The KapSafe-mini is a small bench-top automated recapping solution designed for a variety of single racks that eliminates the need to manually recap multiple sample tube sizes from 12 to 16 mm in diameter and from 75 to 100 mm in height. The system safely and quickly recaps up to 1,200 tubes per hour located within a variety of five- to 36-position linear racks from all major instrument manufacturers. The Recapper is pneumatics-free, has a small footprint (22” w. x 14” d. x 26” h.), and utilizes a unique tube cap that will minimize evaporation and sample contamination for stored sample tubes. For more information, please visit: http://www.lgpconsulting.com/index.cfm?page=793#kapsafemini

Yaskawa Motoman’s AutoSorter 1200

The AutoSorter 1200 is Yaskawa Motoman’s newest high-speed sorting instrument for pre- and post-analytic specimen processing. Leveraging the previous model’s excellent record for reliability and speed, AutoSorter 1200 enables throughput at up to 1,200 tubes/hr. Its larger sort deck area yields extended walkaway times and expanded deck configuration options, while its reduced footprint saves lab floorspace. AutoSorter 1200 may be positioned against a wall or next to other instruments, as all maintenance access is from the front of the instrument. For more information, please visit: http://www.motoman.com/applications/clinical-lab_automation.php

Beckman Coulter’s Power Express

The Power Express offers the following: (1) Lean automation eliminates bottlenecks for consistent workflow, improving FTE utilization and expediting delivery of results; (2) Consolidated multi-disciplinary workflow employs a single point of entry for all core laboratory disciplines, enhancing operational efficiencies; (3) Scalable automation serves all network facilities from community hospitals to reference laboratories, and provides the freedom to grow menu and capacity throughout the laboratory; (4) Fast results consistently deliver turnaround times below 30 minutes, in the 90th percentile, increasing physician satisfaction and speed to treatment and (5) Reliable results help increase focus on critical patients and outliers, supported by built-in component redundancy, IT integration, and intelligent sample management for reduced errors and increased diagnostic confidence. For more information, please visit: http://advancingyourlab.com/AMSystem