Medical device packaging is a vital exercise that aids in delivering safe and secure devices to the market, improving the reputation and sales of the manufacturer. However, there is no doubt that managing and navigating this process can be time-consuming and confusing for the manufacturers. As a result, there may be some faults with packages rendering the devices useless. However, with proper guidance and packaging design solutions, such issues can be avoided. Here are some ways to make medical device packaging safe and more sensible.
Invest In Time First
The pressure to cut costs and get the products faster is always an issue. Unfortunately, the industry lacks testing standards awareness. Whatever reason you may have, taking shortcuts may lead you to potential packaging issues putting the products’ quality at risk.
Always plan, and gather all the internal stakeholders to help define a vision for your medical device packaging and its specific needs. Invest more in aging tests; this will give you a preliminary evaluation of the product’s compatibility with its transit.
Take The Inside-Out Approach
Try to avoid inadequate packaging, which may lead to possible risks on the sterility of the medical device. The inside-out approach means you have to design your primary packaging forehand, whether a tray or a backer card. Then use those dimensions to begin designing a properly sized pouch.
Then the shelf cartons and the shipping cartons will come inasmuch later. Remember, the dimensions guiding you are those of the initial component. If you need adjustments, you can make them as you continue with each step to ensure you have the most efficient medical packaging.
The inside-out approach optimizes the element’s size for a smaller package footprint. If the package is smaller, you will reduce your material cost and lower the shelf space, the weight, and the shipping cost. It also means lots of units can fit into one large tote, reducing your sterilization cost per unit.
Do Not Provide The Final Product Too Late
Medical device manufacturers work hand in hand with packaging suppliers to help package the final product for shipping. However, in most cases, the manufacturers always tend to deliver the final product to the packaging suppliers. Imagine designing a frozen device at the last minute. This could lead to design changes that may be too costly and time-consuming.
During the early stages of the designing process, consider using a 3D printer prototype of the medical device in question. However, during the finalization stage and before placing the order, you must provide the packaging designer with the actual device just in time for them to make any necessary changes and adjustments.
Please note that any change to the actual device, however small, has imperative effects on the overall design. For instance, if the prototype device has a tacky surface, but the final product has a smooth surface, this could affect the previous design elements and their ability to retain the device.
It is advisable and acceptable to start device packaging with a 3-D model. However, always try to provide the packaging designer with the frozen device as early as possible to give them enough room to make any needed changes. Always avoid the last-minute hassles; they cause delays that might be expensive for your business.
