The collaboration focuses on the Module Type Package (MTP) to simplify the connectivity between Cytiva equipment and overarching control systems. Cytiva is investing time and resources in the development, with COPA-DATA enabling additional capabilities of the UNICORN control software. The new solution is expected to be demonstrated in the 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 revolutionized 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 organizations 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.”
Bernhard Korten, Director Life Sciences and Process Industry at COPA-DATA
Sara Corin, Vice President 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.”
Sara Corin, Vice President and General Manager Downstream Hardware and Consumables at Cytiva
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.
About Cytiva
At Cytiva, the mission is to advance and accelerate the development of therapeutics. With 15,000 associates in more than 40 countries, Cytiva is driven to use its expertise and talent to achieve better flexibility, capacity, and efficiency for its customers. The broad and deep portfolio of tools and technologies, global scale, and best-in-class service provide critical support from discovery to delivery, for customers spanning researchers, emerging biotech, large-scale biopharma, and contract manufacturers. Cytiva is proud to be part of Danaher. Visit www.danaher.com to learn more about Danaher, a leading life sciences and diagnostics innovator committed to accelerating the power of science and technology to improve human health.
COPA-DATA is an independent software manufacturer that specializes in digitalization for the manufacturing industry and energy sector. Its zenon® software platform enables users worldwide to automate, manage, monitor, integrate and optimize machines, equipment, buildings and power grids. COPA-DATA combines decades of experience in automation with the potential of digital transformation and a strong drive for sustainability-enabling solutions. In this way, the company supports its customers to achieve their objectives more easily, faster and more efficiently.
The family-owned business was founded by Thomas Punzenberger in 1987 in Salzburg, Austria. In 2024, with more than 450 employees worldwide, it generated revenue of EUR 99 million. A sales network of international distributors and 14 subsidiaries ensures that the software is marketed worldwide. More than 350 certified partner companies further support end users with the efficient implementation of the software, particularly in the key industries of food & beverage, energy & infrastructure, automotive and pharmaceutical.
