UniVerse® automates the molecular specimen setup by performing several critical tasks:

• ID Scan: It identifies inbound specimen barcodes and matches them with LIS data.
• Vortex: Offers various vertexing protocols based on sample type.
• Decap and Recap: Independently manages the opening and closing of primary and secondary tubes.
• Aliquot: Transfers specimen aliquots to tubes or assay plates with precision.
• Label and Reconcile: Applies custom labels to output tubes and synchronizes with LIS for full traceability.

While primarily designed for molecular sample preparation, UniVerse® can also be used for:

• Preparing specimens for antigen testing
• Aliquoting samples for immunoassays or archiving

UniVerse® brings numerous benefits to laboratory workflows, including:

• Efficiency: Capable of processing up to 130 tubes/hour or 220 96-well plate samples/hour, UniVerse® significantly accelerates sample preparation while significantly reducing manual labor
• Safety: Equipped with a HEPA BSL-2 filtration system, it ensures a contamination-free environment for both staff and specimens.
• Compatibility: Designed to work harmoniously with a broad range of molecular assays, enhancing its applicability across different testing platforms.
• Flexibility: Supports multiple tube sizes, swab types, and customized assay plates, accommodating diverse laboratory needs.

UniVerse® boasts four operational modes to suit various laboratory requirements and includes:

1. Tube to Tube: Transfers from one primary specimen to one secondary tube.
2. Tube Pooling: Consolidates multiple primary specimen into one secondary tube.
3. Tube to Plate: Dispenses from one primary specimen to a designated well on a secondary 96-well assay plate.
4. Plate Pooling: Combines multiple primary specimens into a single well on a secondary 96-well assay plate.

What add-on modules are available to expand the capabilities of the UniVerse®?

UniVerse® offers optional modules to expand its functionality:

• Turntable for HPV Molecular Testing: Automates specimen setup for HPV testing using BD SurePath™ and Hologic ThinPrep® vials.
• QuantiFERON Sample Processing: Prepares QuantiFERON daughter tubes for tuberculosis exposure testing, including initial specimen mixing and tube labeling.

By automating the tedious, repetitive tasks involved in molecular sample preparation, UniVerse® enables consistent and precise processing across diverse assay platforms. This reduces variability and frees laboratory staff to focus on other diagnostic tasks.

UniVerse® has a double vortex station with selectable protocols optimized for various specimen types and collection devices. This ensures proper sample mixing prior to aliquoting.

UniVerse® has an integrated Class II biosafety laminar flow hood with HEPA filtration to contain any aerosols and droplets. The automated pipetting also has anti-droplet control. These features protect both the specimens and operators from contamination risks. Automating repetitive manual steps also reduces repetitive stress injury risks for lab staff.

UniVerse® is a testament to COPAN’s commitment to advancing the field of molecular diagnostics through automation. Its comprehensive suite of features and functionalities streamlines laboratory operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compatibility with a wide array of molecular assays. For laboratories looking to automate elevate their molecular testing pre-analytical capabilities, UniVerse® offers a scalable, flexible, and efficient solution.