Mantracourt, an electronics specialist helped in developing a new rapid test that tells people whether they have immunity against Coronavirus and if the immunity is as a result of the development of antibodies after the vaccine or infection. Attomarker, a spin-out company from the University of Exeter designed the device. The device is currently being used at the Exeter-based clinic.
Attomarker developed a new COVID 19 triple antibody testing device that tells people if they have antibodies that protect them against COVID 19 and if those antibodies are from the previous infection or from vaccination. The company developed the rapid testing machine in association with Mantracourt, an Exeter-based company that has taken the initial design through to production, standardization, and testing.
Managing director at Mantracourt, Robert Badcock, said: “We started off by developing the device for Attomarker, but it became obvious that there were three other aspects we could help to deliver a project like a machine validation testing. We were in charge of the pre-compliance test and found out the communications and electronics systems in the device could be enhanced.”
We designed a new power distribution module, a new USB hub, and a new USB component and replaced many of the specified cables in the unit. Overall, we tried enhancing the kit while reducing the cost by 60%, and reducing noise which is important from an EMC point of view.
Mantracourt’s manufacturing capabilities meant that the company was able to take Attomarker’s design and specifications and refine it thanks to its expertise in electronics and mass-production requirements.
Badcock added: “We took the design concept and assisted Attomarker to make it more suitable for mass production. Mantracourt is used to helpingcustomers findopportunities and inefficiencies during the design cycle which means we can start manufacturing quickly. Ultimately, our participation in this project helped to finalize the device and bring it to market much sooner.”
The device takes seven minutes to test for COVID 19 antibody and is currently in use at the Exeter-based clinics and will be rolled out across the UK to be used for those who are 16 years of age and above.
