CASE STUDY: Medical Device Tape Assembly
Industry: Biotechnology
The Situation
A biomedical device manufacturer required a web based production machine to automatically cut and assemble a critical diagnostic film to their component. Web control was critical as the tension during assembly was a critical process parameter. The diagnostic film had a high material cost requiring an innovative approach to maximize material usage.
The Challenge
The diagnostic film consisted of multiple laminated layers that must be separated prior to application to the parts. Fixturing for the diagnostic caps needed to be designed that allowed easy loading yet maintained the proper orientation. Tension of the film was a critical parameter that must be controlled precisely to achieve the desired yields.
The Solution
Owens Design developed a unique web feed solution in combination with a two axis stage. The film was separated by independently controlled reels that also provided back tension on the web. The punch design incorporated a die cutter to provide a clean cut. A second axis on the stage was introduced to allow the cuttings to be nested, therefore reducing the material cost by a factor of 50%, saving thousands of dollars as the product ramped into production.
Additional Information
Case Studies
Medical Device Tape Assembly 
