Use Case

Conducting a head-to-head analysis, TNPRC evaluated several leading temperature monitoring systems on the market. Although other monitoring systems were able to meet some of the criteria, the CORIS Monitoring System (developed by CORIS Life Sciences Monitoring) was the only system that met all of them, providing the most user-friendly software at a price point that was considerably less expensive than competitive offerings. Another unique feature favorable to TNPRC was CORIS' outlet module which, when combined with their monitoring system, functions as a low temperature cut-off device, vital for protecting contents that could be damaged by freezing. To reach the hundreds of freezers in all 22 buildings of the TNPRC campus, CORIS used MultiTech LoRaWAN ® based wireless devices as part of their system to collect and transmit the internal temperatures of the freezers. LoRaWAN is an increasingly popular new communication system that offers affordable and reliable connectivity to a high number of sensors distributed over large geographical areas. CORIS traditionally designed and manufactured its own modules and gateways, but MultiTech's LoRaWAN solutions offered an attractive alternative - the ability to send information longer distances and through the walls of buildings. Ultimately this resulted in better wireless communication with fewer gateways in its multi- building campus. For the end-users at TNPRC, this meant that no information was missed and all data could be shared and programmed appropriately. With this solution, the precious contents of the refrigeration systems are protected. "CORIS Monitoring System has enabled our individual laboratories to become more proactive in monitoring their fridges and freezers. It has decreased the burden for both laboratory and facilities personnel as remote monitoring is now possible, reducing the need for twice daily in-person temperature checks," said Angie Birnbaum, director of Tulane's Office of Biosafety. "In addition, the customizable nature of the alert system has allowed us to ensure that each group has units operating within their desired temperature range and can receive critical alerts when, and how they want them, without exposing users to alert fatigue." The installation of the new system has enabled TNPRC to offer storage for regulated and contract materials that is fully temperature-monitored at all times, with emergency action plans to ensure these materials are protected in the case of a critical failure event. It has also further improved the institution's knowledge on the importance of monitoring temperatures over time within the units, not only for ensuring quality of contents, but for tracking the health and correct usage of the unit. Looking to the future, TNPRC will continue to expand its use of CORIS' monitoring technology, requiring this system for all temperature-controlled units at TNPRC. This will eventually include the use of the CORIS temperature monitoring and alert systems in both its freezers and incubators. "An unanticipated result from installing the CORIS monitoring system was the discovery that many of our fridges and freezers are not operating within the stated manufacturer range," continued Angie. "This knowledge is allowing us to map temperatures using the CORIS technology and redistribute contents to ensure all contents are stored optimally. The impact to the University has been transformational." For additional information, contact: sales@multitech.com "It has decreased the burden for both laboratory and facilities personnel as remote monitoring is now possible, reducing the need for twice daily in-person temperature checks." Angie Birnbaum, Director Tulane's Office of Biosafety www.multitech.com

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