High precision cartridge labeller
With short delivery time
How cooperation with LSS added value to a cartridge labelling project
LSS became involved due to our solution for high-precision cartridge marking with tolerances down to 0.2 mm, which was a crucial factor for the customer.
Once the customer had sent the URS to LSS and started the conversation about their cartridge labeling project, the project evolved from a label dispensing solution to an automatic label solution with tray handling and validation documentation.
The customer discovered that LSS has experience with automatic solutions and that we have standard modules for handling the cartridges in trays and transferring the cartridges from the trays to the feed conveyor using robots.
After labelling, the cartridges are transferred onto the LSS in-line outfeed, where the cartridges are aligned with the bypass facing up for further handling in a pen assembly station.
During development of the solution, LSS uncovered that there was a risk that the plunger retainer could be loose after the robot pick and place in the fixture. A feature was added which ensured the plunger retainer would always be placed correctly after robot picking and placement in the fixture.
The customer is very satisfied with their collaboration with LSS, especially the level of precision in communication and documentation. All deadlines were met. Due to both experience and use of existing modules, LSS added value to the project by saving time and money.
Customer statement: “All deadlines were kept, and LSS was at the forefront of the project, ready with solutions, ensuring the project always moved in the right direction.”
How we carried out the project for high-precision marking of cartridges with a tolerance of 0.2 mm
Control and reject functions
When cartridges enter the labeling solution in the trays, it is detected whether the plunger retainer is located on the cartridge. If a plunger retainer is not present, the tray including cartridges will be transferred to the tray outfeed. All labels are controlled by vision and only approved labels are applied to the cartridge; non-approved labels are placed on the label reject plate. After label application, the location of the label on the cartridge is checked, the tolerances are +/- 0.2 mm. Unapproved cartridges are rejected into the reject bin. Only approved cartridges are transferred to the outfeed conveyor.
Operator friendly HMI
The intuitive HMI shows the machine status. Modules needing attention from the operator changes color on the HMI to guide the operator how to use the machine, detect errors and how to fix the error. In the HMI the operator can see the visualised product shift register and also a label shift register, this gives the operator a clear impression of the machine status.
Documentation
Documentation is an important part of any pharma project, LSS can assist with the documentation package needed, for this project LSS delivered the following documentation:
- Commented and recommendations to the URS
- Design Specification (FS / HDS / SDS)
- Test plans, report and protocol for FAT and SAT
- EFMEA
The customer statement: “Exceptional cooperation. I have rarely experienced other suppliers with the same precision in their communication and documentation.”
We know you, your business and your industry
For more than 20 years our specialised technical team has provided customised labelling solutions for the pharma industry. We speak the same language as you and know what challenges you face.
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