PACKAGING RESOURCE CENTER
High-Speed Video Camera
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A video camera uses a 1280 × 1024-resolution sensor with high light sensitivity to produce impressive image quality. The i-Speed 3 high-speed video camera takes images at 2000 frames per second; with windowed resolution, the i-Speed 3 can generate as many as 150,000 frames per second. The camera is constructed from a solid aluminum chassis and includes an integral battery that provides 45 minutes of unsupported operation as a battery backup or dedicated power supply. Olympus Industrial America, Orangeburg, NY; 845/398-9462; www.olympus industrial.com.
Hot-Air Sealer
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A sealer features a proportional-integral-derivative temperature control and an enhanced airflow design to form a heat-transfer system that seals thicker bags. The SH 2000 changes over rapidly and employs user-friendly controls that include a variable-speed direct-drive system and an electric, variable height pedestal that adjusts to handle a variety of bag sizes. Fischbein S.A., Statesville, NC; 704/838-7699; www.fischbein.com.
Aseptic Vial Filler
A filling machine combines sterile containment and gentle peristaltic dispensing action to fill injectable products into vials. The FMB210 filler offers a modular, monobloc system designed for outsource manufacturers that require flexibility for filling and capping lyophilized injectables. Product comes in contact only with medical-grade silicon tubing and a filling needle. Flexicon America Inc., Burlington, VT; 802/657-3232; www.flexiconamerica.com.
Robotic Loading System
A device loads automating machines at their infeeds. The TaskMate incorporates a Fanuc LR Mate minirobot with a custom-designed end-of-arm tooling. The device can handle a range of products, letting it robotically load machine infeeds on thermoform blister packagers, cartoners and wrappers, interlocked guarding, and optional light curtain, letting it integrate into most packaging equipment. ESS Technologies Inc., Blacksburg, VA; 540/961-5716; www.esstechnologies.com.
Image-Based Reader
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A new series of ID readers features two models for a range of applications. The DataMan 700 series includes the DataMan 750, which is electrostatic-discharge safe, suitable for reading 1-D and 2-D codes in the medical device industry. It uses IDMax decoding software to handle code degradations that result from differences in material types and surfaces. The DataMan 710 model features IDQuick decoding software for consistent reading of high-quality 1-D and 2-D codes, as well as low-contrast codes on uniform backgrounds. Both models’ DataMan user interface has been designed for quick setup and user friendliness. Cognex Corp., Natick, MA; 508/650-3000; www.cognex.com.
User Interface
A system functions in a range of industrial workstation applications, providing NEMA 12 protection against dirt, dust, and splashes from noncorrosive liquids. The TopConsole system features a modular design composed of three parts: pedestal, desk unit, and console. Slimmer than previous versions, the TopConsole provides more usable mounting space in an ergonomically designed platform. Rittal Corp., Springfield, OH; 800/477-4000; www.rittal-corp.com.
Printing Technologies
A printer develops new technologies and machines. The firm introduces the X3-360 for seven-color printing around the circumference of a standard catheter tube. This 360-degree printing has been designed for catheters, but can be applied to a variety of cylindrical objects. The system utilizes the fully servo controlled TPX-301, featuring seven sealed ink-cups, a servo controlled transfer device, programmable pad cleaning, and touch screen control panel. Teca-Print USA Corp., Billerica, MA; 978/667-8665; www.tecaprint.com.
Fiber-Laser Labels
An organization offers high-quality fiber-laser marking, cutting, and engraving technologies. With the high demand for accuracy and precision, these systems suit various applications, such as UID (Unique Identification), DPM (direct parts marking), bar codes, 2-D symbols, logos, graphic designs and serial numbers. These marks can be made on a variety of materials, such as plastics, composites, polymers, aluminum, titanium, ceramics, and many others. Systems are commonly used for medical device marking and can be automated to mass-mark devices as small as millimeters in length. This minimizes human error and speeds up production. Laser Photonics, Lake Mary, FL; 888/418-2613; www.laserphotonics.com.
Jewel-Tone Labels
A company introduces the look of jewel-tone printing on a variety of substrates. Falcon uses a variety of transparent and opaque inks to make durable panels and overlays that are unique for customers. Falcon also prints on antimicrobial substrates to inhibit the growth of microorganisms. Membrane switch production is also a specialty of Falcon Design, which has 29 year’s experience. Falcon Design and Manufacturing, Shawnee Mission, KS; 888/844-4014; www.falcondesignmfg.com.
Contract Services
A company offers 85 years of experience for full-service contract manufacturing, assembly, packaging, and sterilization services of sterile and non-sterile medical devices. It maintains Class 10,000 cleanrooms, Class 100 conditions, a moisture-controlled dry room, adhesive assembly, pouch and tray packaging, liquid and powder fill, material sourcing and purchasing, package design, and complete packaging and sterilization validation services. Custom packaging designs or modification of existing designs are available, including custom kit and tray wrapping and blister pack and medical tray sealing. Other benefits include FDA/cGMP/QSR program consulting, ISO 13485:2003 certified, and Authorized Representative Program for companies exporting into Europe. Surgical Technologies Inc., St. Paul, MN; 800/777-9987; www.surgicaltechnologies.com.
