Mach Medical Achieves 24/7 'Lights-Out' Operation with Autonomous Workcell
Mach Medical, a leading medical device contract manufacturer, has achieved a significant milestone in its quest for operational efficiency and expansion. The company has implemented a fully autonomous, multi-machine workcell capable of 24/7 'lights-out' operation, thanks to its collaboration with Flexxbotics.
At the heart of this innovative setup is a workcell that includes 5-axis vertical milling operations, a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) for in-line inspection, and a custom part wash/blow-off station. All these operations are orchestrated by a single robot using Flexxbotics technology. The robot has full command and control over the workcell, connecting directly with all equipment and systems. This integration allows for closed-loop feedback from CMM inspection results to be automatically routed to CNC machines in real-time, ensuring continuous, autonomous operation with full FDA compliance.
The Flexxbotics solution has enabled Mach Medical to dynamically manage multiple SKUs, integrate inspection and compliance in-line, and provide full traceability. The automation cell boasts an impressive machine-to-labor ratio of 20:1, delivering high-quality joint replacement implants with precision and consistency. This advanced robotic machine tending with autonomous process control has resulted in a 61% increase in production capacity and a 44% boost in throughput for Mach Medical.
Mach Medical's deployment of Flexxbotics has not only enhanced its operational efficiency but also expanded its production capabilities. The fully autonomous workcell, capable of 24/7 'lights-out' operation, has set a new standard for the medical device manufacturing industry. With this innovative technology, Mach Medical is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for high-quality, precision-engineered joint replacement implants.
