Part B - System description cobas p 512
2-24 Operator's Manual - Version 1.6 - 10/2015
2.2.11 Decapping module
When necessary, the decapping module automatically removes the caps of the sealed tubes.
The decapping module is located in the input sorter housing. The sample tubes are first
raised by the lifting gripper and then opened with the aid of the rotary gripper. This is
accompanied by a simultaneous downwards movement of the lifting gripper.
Figure 2-20: Front view of decapping module
Different primary tube types (stopper or turn seal) can be opened in one cycle.
The decapping module contains the tube parameters (cap type or tube size) received from
the camera system in the cap recognition. One component of the decapping module is a
sensor feedback (acknowledgment) after the tube has been successfully open.
The decapping module is configured at the factory so that the most common tube types used
in hematology can be opened.
The waste container is located externally on the rear of the system. It can easily be emptied
and cleaned.
Chapter 6 'Appendix' contains more information about tube types.