Streamlining the design of irradiation solutions with pre-engineering
Sébastien Masson1, Jeremy Brison1, Dominique Vincent1, Cody Wilson1, Arnaud Pierard1, Medical device Manufacturer #12, Medical device Manufacturer #22.
1Product Management & Innovation, IBA Industrial, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium; 2Medical device Manufacturer, TBC, XXX, AL, United States
The escalating global demand for sterilization/ionization capabilities, catalyzed by the pressure on Gamma and EtO and the industry electrification, has led to a surge in demand for irradiation centers utilizing electron accelerators. The market, once used to 2 to 5 integrated systems annually, now seeks over 20 yearly.
As the technology matures, buyer profiles and requirements are evolving. While past emphasis was on beam power, current demands focus on process integration, flexibility, automation, and logistic flows. Despite the appealing business model, the perceived complexity of these solutions and technology transition can deter potential adopters. Addressing these concerns during due diligence is crucial.
This paper proposes a novel approach: Integration Pre-Engineering.
The primary objective of this support is to concentrate on the industrial vision and the final value for the customer. The paper outlines how analytical estimations, Monte Carlo modeling, and product testing rapidly converge to an ideal modality, with DURs and annual throughput provided. Multiple options for modality transfer and product testing in real conditions are offered. This allows a preliminary choice and the establishment of a ROI model.
The integration steps with the conveyor, dosimetry, safety, and Process Control System are detailed iteratively with building and shielding optimization. Discussions on automation, storage, ERP interface, and efficiency are held in parallel. Once validated, a set of summary documents are provided. Finaly additional services to expedite the go-to-market strategy are presented.
Recent examples in E-beam and X-Ray solutions demonstrate that pre-engineering significantly mitigates project risks, enhances prospects' understanding, and reduces time to market.