Reliable marking of medical devices, around the clock

Challenges

The medical technology sector is undergoing major changes. Companies in this sector must automate processes in order to be ready for the future. But this presents considerable challenges, because the lot sizes in this industry vary greatly. This makes automation difficult and expensive. In addition, the solutions must be absolutely reliable and every employee must be able to use them.

Solutions

ZELTWANGER developed the automation platform X-LOAD cobot to face these challenges head-on. Customers can use it to subsequently automate manual workstations, saving investment costs. Even the smallest lot sizes can be implemented with it. Operation is made easy with a simple user interface, even for operators without prior experience. Production is easier and more efficient with the X-LOAD cobot. For example, removal of NOK parts is possible thanks to a marking check. This ensures 100% good parts in the subsequent production process. Dr. Rüdiger Brockmann, Managing Director of the ZELTWANGER Group and responsible for the Technology and Sales departments, states, "With their laser systems and products, TRUMPF provided precisely the characteristics that we needed to develop the X-LOAD cobot. This included the ease of operation and absolute reliability of their laser marking systems, as well as the company's excellent global service network. We have customers all over the world, so of course we needed a partner who was operational worldwide."

Implementation

ZELTWANGER was looking for someone familiar with welding and marking processes for the implementation of the X-LOAD cobot – and found it at TRUMPF. Matthias Neumann from the Laser Robotic Applications department states, "TRUMPF is a partner who develops processes with us and also provides support when the system is in the field. TRUMPF is also reliable in terms of service." The two companies visit new customers together. They view the onsite production situation, identify the processes and welding applications and find the best possible solution. They subsequently use customer feedback to continue developing existing system platforms.

Forecast

Neumann believes that TRUMPF and ZELTWANGER have much in common. "Both companies live technology and are constantly looking for ways to improve and implement solutions for their customers," he says. Brockmann adds, "Our companies have the same philosophy. Quality is of the utmost importance to us, and we strive to be leaders in technology and innovation. This is where we are on the same wavelength."