References

Following the successful delivery of the first balloon coating system, we were entrusted with developing and building the second generation for B. Braun Melsungen AG. Based on operational experience, process validation, and valuable lessons learned, the new system incorporates numerous mechanical, electrical, and software enhancements to further improve process reliability, maintainability, and ease of operation.

A key aspect of the project was the complete integration and further development of the machine vision system for automatic marker detection. In addition to the mechanical and automation engineering, Kinemation assumed responsibility for integrating and optimizing the vision software, seamlessly connecting it with the machine control system and HMI. The result is a highly precise, modular production system designed to meet the stringent quality and cleanroom requirements of modern medical device manufacturing while providing flexibility for future process improvements.

We had the opportunity to provide engineering and construction support for META Zurich as part of a demanding technical project. Our main task was the design and construction of a custom darkroom featuring movable wall panels made from non-reflective black fabric. This flexible setup allowed the space to be adapted to different testing and measurement scenarios.

In addition, we designed and developed custom measurement instruments tailored to the project's specific requirements. By combining engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing expertise, we delivered a precise and functional solution that met META's high technical standards.

In collaboration with our client, we developed a digital concierge in a robust steel housing designed to significantly reduce the workload at the traditional reception desk.

The design as well as the existing add-ons of the previous wooden model were retained and further developed. The system is equipped with a camera for initial interaction with visitors and uses open-source software from Joseph Wizard AG for communication. An integrated QR code scanner enables direct check-in with the respective recipient. In addition, the concierge features a built-in printer for issuing name badges.

For SIGVARIS AG, we developed the overall concept for a fully automated production line for manufacturing medical compression stockings. The project focused on analyzing and designing the complete production process, defining the machine architecture, and developing a modular automation concept for an efficient and future-proof manufacturing solution.

Our scope included comprehensive cycle time analyses, evaluation of all stocking variants and sizes, and support in developing the functional specification. In addition, we designed concepts for material flow, product identification, traceability, and the seamless integration of all manufacturing processes into a single automated production line. The project established the technical foundation for the future implementation of the production system.

For SIGVARIS AG, we developed and built a FUMU test and demonstration cell to evaluate and validate key automation processes for the future production of medical compression stockings. The objective was to verify the technical feasibility of an automated production workflow under realistic operating conditions and to generate valuable insights for future industrial implementation.

The demonstration cell included the automated loading of compression stockings onto ACOPOStrak shuttles, precise product orientation using a vision system for the label sewing process, integration with the sewing machine for automated label attachment, and automated unloading by a 6-axis robot. Finally, the stockings were automatically placed onto steaming boards for transfer to the subsequent steam treatment process. This test setup successfully demonstrated the feasibility of the complete automation concept and provided the foundation for further development towards a fully automated production system.

For B. Braun Melsungen AG, we developed and built a fully customized balloon coating system for the automated coating of drug-coated balloon catheters used in the medical device industry. The system was designed for operation in an ISO Class 7 cleanroom and combines precision mechanics, machine vision, advanced dosing technology, and intuitive automation to ensure a highly reliable and reproducible coating process.

As the general contractor, Kinemation was responsible for the complete engineering, manufacturing, assembly, software development, commissioning, and validation support of the system. The modular machine architecture allows efficient maintenance, future process enhancements, and seamless integration into existing production environments, meeting the stringent quality and regulatory requirements of medical device manufacturing.

Kinemation AG provides engineering services to Securecell AG, primarily in the areas of development and mechanical design.

The Crunchy Sampler is designed both as a standalone system and for operation in combination with the “IntegraOne system” as partly completed machinery. Continuous sample cooling is ensured through the use of crushed ice and the resulting ice water.

The preliminary concept of the Crunchy Sampler was developed by Securecell AG and provided to Kinemation AG in the form of a 3D model. Based on this concept, the required functions defined in the customer’s specification were further developed, engineered, and implemented by Kinemation AG.

Integration of the Following Components:

• Manual, visual random inspection of the adhesive application according to customer requirements
• Adhesive Dosing Unit incl. Nozzle Cleaning Station
• Pressing station
• Integrated parts cleaning with micro nozzle, with drying and suction
• Freely programmable adhesive bead geometry

Specifications:

• Automatic feeding of 180 parts from the magazine
• Cycle time: 15s/part
• Convertible to three different formats

Test Characteristics:

• Incoming inspection end of fleece, mark recognition
• Detection of errors on the pads
• Geometry error
• Control nonwoven web centering
• Detection of the position of the pads to the robot controller X, Y coordinates
• Integration Vision HMI autonomous

Integration of the Following Components:

• Material feed via Spiral Conveyor System with 6 axes Denso Robot VS
• Material receiving inspection and alignment via Vision System
• Integration of parallel tapping, milling and punching units
• Three parallel working Scara axes Denso Robot HS
• In-process inspection thread cutting with sensor technology
• In-process inspection milling and punching by Vision System
• Material design in Double Pallet System
• Integrated minimum quantity lubrication and chip suction

Specification

• Cycle time:                          2.8 sec/part
• Thread cutting:        depth +/- 0.2 mm
• Milling:                          edge dimension +/-0.025 mm
• Punching:                        alignment +/-0.025 mm