Case Studies

Predictive AI for Monitoring High-speed Autoinjector Assembly

An autoinjector is a complex mechanism that demands 100% quality to ensure each device functions correctly every time. At ATS, we were hearing from customers that they needed this quality but at faster rates. Given the ever-increasing demand for autoinjector assembly across all sectors, the engineers in the Innovation Center saw an opportunity to review our proven processes and technology, and challenge established monitoring rates. Initially the request was for two separate machines: one that could produce a syringe line and a second that would handle vials. After consultation with the experts in the ATS LS Group, we were able to present a hybrid concept, merging the two processes and delivering a single end-to-end solution capable of changing formats from one to the other, quickly and efficiently. Despite greater complexity, the revamped proposal was less costly and mitigated risk to both the product and to operators.

Scaling Up Complexity for Diagnostics and Wearables in a Quick-to-Market Solution

Our customer, a global pharma company, is a producer of a cancer drug containing both a liquid and a powder that is delivered via syringe. Their existing assembly process was outdated, required staff in full PPE garb in cleanrooms, and was not Class A. They wanted an automated aseptic filling, handling and packaging line that included containment of APIs in the form of a liquid and a cytotoxic powder, and that was capable of increasing production capacity. Initially the request was for two separate machines: one that could produce a syringe line and a second that would handle vials. After consultation with the experts in the ATS LS Group, we were able to present a hybrid concept, merging the two processes and delivering a single end-to-end solution capable of changing formats from one to the other, quickly and efficiently. Despite greater complexity, the revamped proposal was less costly and mitigated risk to both the product and to operators.

Solution for Aseptic Filling and Handling of Liquid and Cytotoxic Powder

Our customer, a global pharma company, is a producer of a cancer drug containing both a liquid and a powder that is delivered via syringe. Their existing assembly process was outdated, required staff in full PPE garb in cleanrooms, and was not Class A. They wanted an automated aseptic filling, handling and packaging line that included containment of APIs in the form of a liquid and a cytotoxic powder, and that was capable of increasing production capacity. Initially the request was for two separate machines: one that could produce a syringe line and a second that would handle vials. After consultation with the experts in the ATS LS Group, we were able to present a hybrid concept, merging the two processes and delivering a single end-to-end solution capable of changing formats from one to the other, quickly and efficiently. Despite greater complexity, the revamped proposal was less costly and mitigated risk to both the product and to operators.

Quality Benefits with Automated Visual Inspection

Quantifying, understanding and verifying product quality is a critical step in any manufacturing process. Moving from a manual inspection to an automated inspection provides greater insight into the quality of the product and process by creating measurable baselines and enabling statistical process controls. This case study provides an overview and takeaways from an ATS project that involved designed flexibility, close collaboration with the customer on their evolving needs, and advanced technologies including Artificial Intelligence-based (AI) inspection.

Building New Vs. a Proven Performer

GET IN TOUCH Briefly tell us about your automation needs and we’ll get back to you. More Case Studies

Assembly case study

Same Speed, 90% Less Tooling and TWO Different Autoinjectors on One Machine