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Waimica case

Case Study: Waimica Hollow Shaft Gearbox Solution for Insulin Pen Assembly Automation

2018-11-16 Waimica

The medical device automation industry, particularly in the production of insulin pens, is undergoing rapid transformation driven by the demand for high-precision, miniaturized, and reliable assembly systems. Insulin pen assembly platforms are essential in the mass production of these critical medical instruments, which require tight tolerances and strict adherence to hygiene and quality standards. These systems typically consist of pick-and-place robots, precision feeders, vision inspection units, and high-speed assembly conveyors.

Recent trends indicate a growing need for compact, high-torque-density gearboxes that can operate under cleanroom conditions, withstand frequent sterilization cycles, and maintain consistent performance over extended operational cycles. This presents a number of challenges in terms of mechanical reliability, thermal stability, and maintenance requirements.

  • Industry Pain Points:
    • High mechanical stress and vibration during high-speed assembly processes can cause premature wear and reduce system lifespan.
    • Limited space in automated assembly platforms demands gearboxes with compact, modular designs.
    • Need for high precision and repeatability to ensure product consistency and regulatory compliance.
    • Short maintenance intervals due to continuous operation in cleanroom environments.
    • Energy efficiency is crucial for cost control in 24/7 manufacturing lines.

Within the insulin pen assembly automation, gearboxes play a pivotal role in translating motor torque into controlled motion for accurate part positioning and consistent assembly force application. The core technical requirements for such systems include:

  • High torque density to support the mechanical demands of automated assembly tools.
  • Sub-micron level motion control for delicate component handling.
  • Fast dynamic response to adapt to rapid speed and position changes in high-throughput systems.
  • Modular and flexible installation to simplify system integration and reduce downtime.
  • High IP rating and compatibility with sterilization protocols to meet cleanroom standards.
  • Long service life and low maintenance to minimize system interruptions and maintenance costs.

Waimica’s hollow shaft gearbox solution is engineered specifically to address the unique challenges of insulin pen assembly automation. This product series is widely adopted in the medical manufacturing industry due to its robust performance and adaptable design.

  • Structural Design Features:
    • Compact and lightweight – The hollow shaft design allows direct motor integration, reducing overall system size and complexity.
    • Modular architecture – Facilitates quick replacement and maintenance without disassembling the entire system.
    • Robust housing and high rigidity – Ensures minimal vibration and high positional accuracy under high-speed operations.
    • IP65 to IP67 protection rating – Suited for cleanroom and high-humidity environments, ensuring long-term reliability.
  • Performance Parameters:
    • Torque range: 0.1 – 50 Nm
    • Backlash: 0.5 arcmin – 2 arcmin
    • Efficiency: 80% – 95% (depending on gear ratio and model)
    • Input flange: ISO standard – compatible with major servo motor brands
    • Temperature range: -10°C to +80°C – ideal for environments with frequent sterilization
  • Special Environmental Adaptations:
    • Materials and surface treatments are selected to resist corrosion and chemical exposure, especially in cleanroom settings.
    • High sealing performance prevents contamination and ensures compliance with ISO 14644-1 standards.
    • Long service life (over 10,000 hours) and low maintenance frequency reduce operational downtime.
Parameter Value
Torque Range 0.1 – 50 Nm
Backlash 0.5 – 2 arcmin
Efficiency 80% – 95%
Input Flange Standard ISO 9223
Temperature Resistance -10°C to +80°C
IP Rating IP65 – IP67
Service Life >10,000 operating hours

In conclusion, Waimica’s hollow shaft gearbox provides a highly optimized and reliable solution for insulin pen assembly automation. By combining advanced engineering, high-performance materials, and flexible integration capabilities, Waimica delivers a cost-effective alternative to traditional overseas suppliers, while maintaining the precision and durability required by the medical device industry.

With the continuous growth of automated production in the medical field, Waimica is committed to delivering scalable and future-ready transmission systems that align with global manufacturing standards. Our ability to offer customized solutions with rapid delivery and robust support makes us a strategic partner for medical device manufacturers aiming for innovation and long-term competitiveness.