Originally Published MPMN January/February 2009

SPOTLIGHT

Packaging and Sterilization

Packaging robots

A supplier has added two packaging robots to its line of vision-guided robotic products. The Quattro s650H parallel robot is specifically designed for high-speed packaging, manufacturing, material-handling, and assembly operations. The Cobra s850 SCARA robot is a high-performance four-axis system for packaging, loading, mechanical assembly, and other operations requiring fast, precise automation. Both robots feature high-efficiency motors that are designed to deliver more torque per amp. They also employ high-resolution encoders that provide precision and slow-speed following. Featuring servo drives, SmartServo controls, and temperature sensors, the robots serve to increase productivity, reduce integration costs, and accelerate time to market.
Adept Technology Inc., Livermore, CA
www.adept.com

Loading and unloading system

Featuring a Fanuc robot and end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), a system is designed to facilitate high-speed machine loading and unloading of medical devices, diagnostic test kits, and pharmaceuticals in a packaging line. The TaskMate system allows manufacturers to keep packaging lines running efficiently while reducing scrap, rework, and repetitive motion for personnel. It can also be integrated with most other packaging equipment, such as cartoners and wrappers. Offering custom vacuum- or gripper-style EOAT for product handling, the system can be programmed to handle multiple SKUs on the same packaging line. The number of Fanuc robots integrated with the system can be specified depending on the payload and reach requirements of an application.
ESS Technologies Inc., Blacksburg, VA
www.esstechnologies.com

Form-fill-seal machine

A compact form-fill-seal machine is suited for low- to medium-volume product runs. The QuickPouch Vertical forms four-sided sealed pouches from two rolls of web stock that measure up to 6 x 6 in. each. Able to handle Tyvek and clear plastic, the unit can also form pouches from foil and paper laminate. It can be integrated with automatic loading of products, including liquids, powders, and gels. The machine can also be combined with a printer for on-pouch printing of such data as serial numbers and bar codes.
Adaptive Manufacturing Technologies, Ronkonkoma, NY
www.amtautomation.com

Contract packaging services

Packaging design services are offered by a contract manufacturer of medical devices. In addition to individual device packaging, polybagging, and shrink-wrapping, the company provides sealing services for trays and blister packaging. Automated count-and-bag and clamshell fill-and-seal operations also are available. Packages can be designed and produced based on customer specifications and application requirements. Sterilization and distribution services also are offered.
HPC Medx, Hanover, PA
www.hpcmedx.com

Pouching and labeling system

A pouching system that opens and seals preformed pouches is offered with an integrated labeling system. Designed to improve control of the customer's printed material and ensure consistent label placement, the PM1000 can help increase productivity by automatically printing a label and applying it to the pouch in real time. The unit features a heat sealer, automatic height adjustment, a Web server, and e-mail capabilities. It can accommodate a variety of hard and soft film pouches ranging in size from 2 x 4 in. to 7.5 x 11.5 in. Offering automatic and manual modes, the machine has a throughput of 15 pouches per minute.
Modular Packaging Technologies, San Diego
www.go-modular.com

Plastic packaging services

In addition to plastic injection molding and high-speed automated assembly, a contract manufacturer of drug-delivery devices offers packaging design and production services. Specializing in plastic passive safety systems for prefilled syringes and other medical devices, the company also develops standard and custom packaging components, such as bottles and closures. The company also provides package decoration options. Material selection, testing, process control, and final qualification services also are offered.
Rexam, London
www.rexam.com

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