Automation Platform

AUTOMATED PACKING LINE

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Fully automated packaging
  • Part verification
  • Modular Design
  • Wide product range
  • Line automation system
  • Feasible for medical products
  • Cycle time: 8sec per part
  • Package inspection with micro leak detection
  • Input buffer for up to 440 parts (22 batches)
  • Output buffer for up to 200 parts (10 batches)
  • 100% traceability
  • Cleanroom class ISO 8 or higher
  • Intuitive HMI design
  • Automatic handling systems

The IMSTec Automated Packaging Line

 

 

DESCRIPTION:

IMSTec’s fully automated packaging line provides fast and safe packaging of orthopaedic implants. A variety of handling and inspection systems ensure a fast and precise process on a high quality level. Except load and unload all processes run autonomic which minimizes the mean time to assist. Refill of consumables is possible at any time during the process. 100% part traceability is achieved by using a line automation system. Included filter man units guarantee a cleanroom environment at any location where parts are exposed to ambient conditions. To provide a maximum grade of automation loading and unloading are the only stations with operator interaction. Except of refill of consumables the packaging process runs completely autonomic.


Before loading the parts are grouped on logistic trays. One batch includes up to 20 samples. Up to 22 batches can be stored in an input buffer so the process can run a certain time without user access.
A robot picks the parts coming out of the buffer and places them on tray collars on a process tray. The part verification system checks product type and size before the skin packaging starts. Heated skin foil adapts perfectly to the parts shape and seals them tightly. This highly flexible packaging method makes it possible to pack up to 12 different parts with one pass.

 

Tightness of the skin package is verified at the integrity station. Micro leaks down to 100µm can be detected. A camera setup inspects the package visually by using image processing methods. Then the skin packed parts are transferred to the blister packaging station. The inspection process after blister packaging is the same as after skin packaging. An automated labelling station applies product labels to the blister packs. Completely packed and labelled samples are stored in an output buffer from where they can be unloaded by the operator.


An included line automation system controls all process steps and records all package locations throughout the process. Together with RFID tags on the logistic trays a 100% part traceability is ensured.
The complete packaging line is encased by a safety housing to protect workers from machine movements. Safety doors stop all movements inside the machine when they are opened. Areas for refill of consumables are accessible at any time during the process. Every single station of the packaging line can be provided separated as semi-automated solution.