COPA-DATA and Cytiva tackle connectivity issues together
- Collaboration focused on Module Type Package (MTP), to ease connectivity between Cytiva equipment and overarching control systems
- Cytiva invests time and resources towards the development, with COPA-DATA enabling additional UNICORN control software's capabilities
- New solution expected to be demonstrated in first half of 2026
Cytiva, a Danaher company and a leader in the life sciences industry, and COPA-DATA, a leader in industrial automation software, are collaborating to develop and implement Module Type Package (MTP) technology into Cytiva’s UNICORN control platform.
This R&D-focused collaboration aims to streamline the connectivity between Cytiva’s equipment and overarching site control systems, such as zenon POL (Process Orchestration Layer), answering significant demand from customers for efficient integration solutions in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
What MTP is and does
MTP is a transformative standard, similar to how USB devices revolutionised computer connectivity. For industrial automation, MTP simplifies modular process automation, wherein a manufacturing process is divided into mobile modules that can be easily swapped or re-configured for different production needs. Key benefits of MTP include:
- Faster integration of Cytiva ÄKTA systems running on UNICORN software with overarching site systems.
- Reduced engineering and validation efforts for customers, since less custom coding is required.
- Time savings and cost reductions.
- Improved flexibility, scalability, and cross-vendor compatibility.
- Scalability, allowing plants to adapt to changing production needs without overhauling entire systems.
Bernhard Korten, Director Life Sciences and Process Industry, COPA-DATA, says:
This collaboration between Cytiva and COPA-DATA sets the stage for transformative advancements in process automation and control. Both organisations are excited to leverage their combined expertise to deliver a solution that streamlines operations, reduces costs, and enhances flexibility for customers in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and food production sectors.
Sara Corin, VP and General Manager, Downstream Hardware and Consumables, Cytiva, says:
In speaking regularly to our customers, we know that they are looking for leading digital solutions that are easy to use. This collaboration and subsequent development underscore our commitment to our customers’ priorities. I’m excited to see what our scientists and engineers accomplish to meet this need.
This initiative enhances connectivity, integrates seamlessly with existing workflows, and supports sustainable growth by reducing pre-testing and engineering hours. Additionally, it facilitates faster integration times, reducing the need for onsite engineering interventions.
The collaboration aims to introduce new solutions by 2026.
