Color sorter

opticalhigh-speedautomatic

Overview
The High Speed Sorter (HSS) is a modular, configurable automation system for clinical laboratory pre- and post-analytical handling of sample tubes. Designed for continuous workflows, the HSS automates feeding, identification, opening/decapping, aliquoting, recapping and transfer of tubes and integrates with laboratory analysis lines and the LIS.

Available modules

• BL Module: Bulk feeding of closed sample tubes and insertion into racks. Includes integrated ID Module to read barcodes, capture tube type (cap color, shape, geometry) and perform Gel-Check for centrifugation status.
• IO Module: Load/unload open or capped tubes in racks; platform layout adaptable with FlexPlates for routine or archive runs.
• ID Module: Barcode identification, tube-type detection and centrifugation (Gel-Check) verification.
• DC Module (Decapper): Automated opening of screw caps and stoppers from multiple manufacturers for downstream analysis.
• AQ Module (Aliquoting): Transfers opened primary tubes, queries the LIS for required secondary tubes, prints/labels secondary tubes with a copy of the primary barcode and dispenses defined volumes for sub-distribution.
• RC Module (Recapper): Three versions available; universal recapping for 13–16 mm tubes to prevent evaporation, or SARSTEDT-specific screw-cap recapping for transport and archiving.
• SC Module (SortConnect): Integration module to connect the HSS to analysis lines, enabling continuous automated transfer of individual tubes or racks.

Tempus1800® Fero
Tempus1800® Fero is a SARSTEDT-specific option that enables automatic dispatch of processed samples, streamlines internal connectivity and reduces manual handling to increase throughput and shorten turnaround time.

Value proposition
The HSS delivers configurable automation for pre- and post-analytics, reducing manual handling and improving throughput by combining modules to match laboratory workflows, throughput targets and sample types.

Technical features / specifications

• Modular architecture: selectable modules (BL, IO, ID, DC, AQ, RC, SC) for tailored workflows.
• Sample identification: barcode reading and tube-type detection (cap color, cap shape, tube geometry).
• Gel-Check: automated centrifugation status detection.
• Decapping/recapping: supports screw caps and stoppers; recapper variants for 13–16 mm tubes and SARSTEDT screw caps.
• Aliquoting: LIS-driven secondary tube selection, secondary tube labeling with primary barcode copy, automated pipetting of specified volumes.
• Rack handling: insertion, loading and unloading of tubes in racks; FlexPlates for platform configuration between run types.
• Integration: SortConnect for connection to analysis lines enabling continuous automated workflows.
• Optional: Tempus1800® Fero for automatic processed-sample dispatch and optimized internal logistics.