APPLICATION HIGHLIGHTS

Automated Tube Processing Figure 1: The new system is

ideal for echogenic structur-
Machine Consolidates Device ing of parts to maximize their
visibility to ultrasound.
Welding and Marking

Challenge
The fabrication of medical devices typically involves a variety of
different processes depending on the device type. But weld-
ing and marking are two fundamental laser-based processes
that are very commonly both required for metal devices and
components. Until now, even though they both use a laser,
these processes have been separately performed in tandem
using two different workstations. Moreover, the time for man-
ual setup, removal and inspection in these workstations adds
further burden in terms of both time and labor costs for the
two separate processes.

Solution
The new UW 180 Tube Processing System from Coherent
is the first machine to successfully consolidate both
processes in a single machine, while also enabling fully
automated operation. Up to 1200 parts can be loaded into
a bulk hopper. A robot arm then positions each part for
welding and marking. These operations are monitored by
the system’s onboard machine vision. After welding and/
or marking, devices are inspected for correct components,
tips, etc., and then sorted into separate bins for finished Figure 2. The UW 180
parts and any reject parts. The processing and inspection Tube Processing System
details are logged for every individual part. is self-contained and
fully automated.
This latest member of the proven UW 180 family is spe-
cifically configured for parts with a tubular geometry. It
can handle parts ranging from a few millimeters up to
300 mm in length. (Tips such as specialty drills and
craniotomes can be much smaller.) Control of the UW 180
Tube Processing System is supported via a user-friendly Benefit
HMI that simplifies unattended operation. A library of
automation routines enables straightforward creation of The consolidation of two processes and the elimination
custom welding and marking sequences. of manual setup results in higher overall throughput and
reduced labor costs. Plus automated robotic operation
System flexibility is maximized thanks to a broad selection avoids operator subjectivity and results in consistently
of laser options from the Coherent portfolio. Drilling, cutting higher yields. This new system benefits anyone making
and other ablative processes can also be optionally incor- needles, cannulae or other tubular parts in stainless, co-
porated. balt-chrome, or other metals.

Application Field Contact

Welding and marking medical devices based on tubular stock. Dave Girardot, Product Line Manager, Plymouth, MI
Email: dave.girardot@coherent.com

© 2020 Coherent, Inc. | www.coherent.com | 09.2020