Innovative medical markers capped to perfection

TorqSense transducers are playing a crucial role in packaging cutting-edge medical test kits at Axis-Shield in Dundee, a company dedicated to developing new diagnostic compounds that aid in the early detection and management of critical illnesses. Axis-Shield is renowned for pioneering new markers for identifying cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, sepsis, vitamin deficiencies, and diabetes. Detecting early signs of such conditions during routine medical check-ups allows for timely treatment, thereby enhancing patient management, whether through curing or effectively managing the problem. Initially, the compounds developed by Axis-Shield are produced in low volumes, where automated processes are not suitable. Once the product has been proven, approved, and certified, and the medical community begins using it, production moves to medium volume. Some compounds progress to high volume production, while Axis-Shield continually improves formulations and develops new products to keep pace with medical advancements. Thus, the company requires highly efficient medium volume packaging solutions to ensure accurate and consistent adherence to performance parameters. To meet this need, Axis-Shield commissioned a customised packaging line capable of handling multiple products in various packaging formats at a rate of approximately 500-2500 units per hour. The line fills containers with the compounds, caps them, labels them, groups them into multi-packs, applies outer wrappers, and overprints essential data such as production date, use-by date, storage, handling, and usage instructions. "Capping the bottles is a critical part of the process," explains Dean Harper of the company. "Our line can work with two sizes of cap, and each one must be tightened to just the right level of torque within tight tolerances." The packaging line features four capping stations, each equipped with a TorqSense transducer. These transducers, working in conjunction with a computer, ensure the correct level of tightness and record the data for traceability records. TorqSense transducers utilise digital inductive telemetry, eliminating the need for delicate slip rings and ensuring reliability and precision in torque measurement. "For Axis-Shield, the software was required to run the torque up to a set level within tolerances and record the actual value achieved," Dean explains. "This secures the cap to the bottle at a level of tightness that ensures security and sterility while still being easily opened by an adult. The logged values are saved to a hard drive for traceability purposes." TorqSense provides a solution to the complex yet critical problem of traceability, using readily available technology to ensure the integrity and reliability of the packaging process in the medical industry.