Precision and efficiency are paramount in pharmaceutical labeling, and that is certainly true for injector pens. These devices are engineered with stringent requirements to ensure both user safety and product integrity. Recognizing the unique challenges of labeling such sensitive products, WLS has developed an all new, patent-pending innovation, device stabilizers for the RL-420 and RL-760 rotary labelers. This innovation provides cost-effective, efficient labeling for injector pens while safeguarding against premature device activation.
The Challenge of Labeling Injector Pens
Some injector pens are sensitive — designed to endure no more than 40 newtons of axial force before activating. Exceeding this threshold risks activating the pen prematurely, a costly and unacceptable outcome in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Traditional approaches to maintaining this delicate balance often rely on expensive active pucks, which, while effective, add considerable cost and complexity to the process.
To address this, WLS engineered a solution that both meets the exacting force constraints and eliminates reliance on active pucks.
WLS RL Labelers for Injectors
The RL labeling machines are sophisticated rotary labeling systems designed to handle high-speed, high-precision labeling tasks. For injector pens, the process begins with:
1. Gating: Injector pens are guided through a gate mechanism.
2. Feed Screw and Star Wheel: These components align and position the pens into the servo platforms with exceptional accuracy.
3. Servo Platforms: These platforms control the orientation of each pen, ensuring precision labeling as they pass through the peel plate of the labeler.
This finely tuned system ensures that labels are applied within a tolerance of ±2 millimeters, meeting the highest quality standards.
The Device Stabilizer
The device stabilizer, an add-on to these labelers, utilizes a cam-actuated gripping mechanism that securely engages with the windows of the injector pen. This design absorbs the 60-newton-meter force required for proper labeling without transmitting any axial force to the base of the pen. How it works:
1. Cam Actuation and Grippers: As the injector pen enters the servo platform, the stabilizer’s grippers—initially open—close and engage the pen’s windows.
2. Force Absorption: During labeling, the stabilizer channels the applied axial force into the grippers, ensuring the pen’s sensitive base is protected from excessive axial stress.
3. Post-Labeling Release: Once the labeling process is complete, the grippers open, allowing the pen in its standard puck to exit the system seamlessly.
The Benefits of the Device Stabilizer
Eliminates Risk of Premature Activation: By absorbing all applied force through the grippers, the stabilizer ensures the pen’s cap remains inactive throughout the labeling process.
Cost-Effective Design: This innovation eliminates the need for active pucks, significantly reducing operational costs.
Enhanced Efficiency: The streamlined integration with the RL-420 and RL-760 boosts overall productivity and throughput.
Meeting Industry Demands with Innovation
By addressing the unique challenges of injector pens, this innovation not only enhances labeling performance but also sets a new standard for cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.
Click here for more information on labeling technology from WLS and view the video highlight below from Pack Expo show floor.
