Assembly - January 2009 - (Page 57) of mass-producing orthopedic devices. “Buffing and polishing have a crucial role in the orthopedic implant manufacturing process,” says Shetty. “High standards are set to achieve maximum precision so that high quality is maintained throughout the life of the implant and failure is avoided. If the surface of the implant is not smooth enough, there is a very high chance that the implant might not have enough wear resistance and may eventually fail when the two joint surfaces repeatedly rub against each other. “We are increasingly seeing automated manufacturing processes in the orthopedic industry,” adds Shetty. “[Manufacturers are] using robotic technology for polishing, buffing and [milling] metal parts used in implants. Automation is expected to take a front seat in implant manufacturing in the near future.” Mark Handelsman, industrial marketing manager at FANUC Robotics America Inc. (Rochester Hills, MI), says many orthopedic device Medical engineers recently developed a polymer material that can be used to coat titanium joints to enhance bone formation around the metal after implantation. Photo courtesy Georgia Institute of Technology manufacturers use six-axis robots for polishing and buffing applications. “They tend to be very demanding about the material removal process,” he points out. “They can’t afford to find out about a problem after the implant is in place. “Also, the materials they use are very expensive, so there’s a big need to eliminate waste and improve quality,” adds Handelsman. While manufacturers are not using robots for assembly applications yet, they are starting to use 3D vision technology for material handling. A GREAT WORKSTATIONS. GREAT WORKSTATION ENGINEERS. GREAT AGVs. GREAT AGV ENGINEERS. We have great workstation designs that will likely meet your needs. If not, we have engineers who can create the best solution just for you. Click “Structures” on our new website for great workstation ideas. Our AGVs follow a magnetic tape guidepath and easily adapt to changing process requirements. Our engineers can help you get started and advance your automated material handling. Click “AGC/AGV” on our new website. www.creform.com 800-839-8823 www.creform.com 800-839-8823 www.assemblymag.com January 2009 / ASSE M B LY 57 http://www.creform.com http://www.creform.com http://www.assemblymag.com
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