Auto-Print® Punch Cut Machine (PCM) for Robot Ready Packaging

Auto-Print® Punch Cut Machine (PCM) for Robot-Ready Packaging

MPI’s Auto-Print® Punch Cut Machine (PCM) Unit-Dose Packaging System is a complete barcoding packaging solution that produces an oral solid package to be used with centralized, robotic drug distribution systems that automate the storage, dispensing, returning, restocking, and crediting of barcoded, unit dose in-patient medication.

MPI’s standard Auto-Print unit-dose packaging solution for oral solids has been modified to include a punch cut mechanism and produce a package that is 2½” W by 3.0″ L. The bottom half of the package contains the unit-dose medication and the upper half has a punched hole to enable the package to hang on the rods of a robotic drug distribution system. The engineering and printing capabilities are the same high quality of MPI’s Auto-Print packaging system, and our operating software has been modified to create the specific barcode required by centralized, robotic drug distribution systems. This high-performance, durable system is designed for simple maintenance and easy operation and will help to decrease packaging costs, increase operational efficiency, and reduce medication errors.

MPI’s Auto-Print PCM conforms to all of the technical guidelines established for MPI’s flagship Auto-Print unit dose packaging system in terms of:

  • Composition, Conformity, and Stability
  • Medication Packaging
  • Medication Barcode and Labeling

MPI’s Auto-Print PCM is manufactured to adhere to strict technical guidelines to assure optimum performance of the packaging equipment and safe packaging of oral solid medication, and it adheres to strict quality control procedures throughout the manufacturing process. 

The MPI-certified consumable materials used in conjunction with MPI’s Auto-Print PCM packaging system were developed exclusively for use in MPI’s packaging systems and were extensively tested to assure there is no degradation to the medication during the packaging process. Multi-layered composition of the consumable materials, combined with our built-in low sealing temperature process of 98° C, assures that a safe, sealed, tamper-proof unit-dose package is created each time, and it is easy to open when it is time to administer the medication. MPI’s proprietary printer design, incorporated into the Auto-Print PCM packaging system, was developed to work exclusively with MPI’s consumable materials to provide a clear, legible print of all medication information including a scannable barcode.

The processes by which these materials are manufactured, and the products that are used to create the materials, are FDA registered for use in drug packaging, and as such, they meet the USP standards for Class A and Class B medication packaging. In accordance with the guidelines set forth by the U.S. Pharmacopeia, a one-year-beyond-use date (BUD) can be affixed to the repackaged product, or the remaining expiration date of the product, whichever is shorter. MPI has developed consumable materials that meet the Class B requirements set forth by the USP for moisture permeation and Class A requirements for light transmission.

The package sealant and adhesive layers conform to the FDA requirements for use in direct food contact, providing for contact surfaces which are not reactive, additive, or absorptive.

Technical Specifications

  • Produces up to forty-five (45) packages per minute
  • Standard package size is 2½” W x 3.0″ L
  • Model #9300: quiet-mode printer with 300 DPI resolution.
  • Includes MPI’s exclusive Pak-EDGE™ UD Barcode Labeling Software package capable of printing a barcode readable by the Robotic Scanner

Size: 36″ L x 15″ W x 14″ H

Weight: 65 lbs.

Power: 115VAC, 60 Hz, 5 amps, 1/8 horsepower direct-drive motor

Sealing Temp: 200°, no degradation to medication, no fumes

Safety: Includes safety reverse switch and clear protective guard with safety interlock. All moving parts are guarded. Circuit breakers on all circuits and a separate power supply for thermal printer

Hardware Requirements: Computer with Windows® XP and Service Pack 3 (SP3) or higher operating system, 5 GB hard drive space, 1 GB RAM, available USB ports, desktop or network printer for reports, Internet access, DVD ROM Drive, and 2D barcode scanner.

Software Requirements: Pak-EDGE™ UD Barcode Labeling Software (provided with packaging system)

Material Requirements: Requires the use of MPI-authorized disposable materials

Space Requirements: Sturdy and level countertop, height between 28″ and 36″ for comfortable working conditions. Clearance above the counter should be 18″ t 24″. Minimum depth of 18″ with 4′ to 5′ minimum counter space in length. The Auto-Print PCM requires two (2) 120V outlets. Allow additional room and electrical outlets for your computer.

Barcodes Supported: All linear and 2D barcodes are supported.

Benefits of Implementation

The combination of packaging oral solid medication with MPI’s Auto-Print PCM packaging system and our exclusive MPI-certified consumable materials, coupled with the advanced barcoding capabilities and configurations available in MPI’s Pak-EDGE™ software, provide our customers with the continued confidence that each unit-dose package will be produced in adherence to industry guidelines for light, moisture, and sealing. A safe, tamper-proof unit-dose package containing detailed medication and barcode information will be delivered to the bedside each and every time, ensuring patient safety.

MPI’s Auto-Print Punch Cut Machine (PCM) Unit Dose Packaging Systems assists the pharmacy by:

  • Decreasing Costs
    • Packaging bulk medication into unit dose is more cost effective than buying products pre-packaged from the manufacturer.
    • Minimal cost per dose (CPD)
  • Increasing Efficiency
    • Produces forty-five (45) per minute, eliminating the need for manual packaging and sorting, thus freeing up pharmacy staff to focus on other tasks. Accurate inventory control and maintenance of stock levels maintained through the sequential numbering feature.
  • Reducing and Eliminating Errors
    • Barcode Scan Check: Scanning bulk bottle before packaging verifies proper drug.
    • Tall-Man Lettering: Helps reduce “looks alike, sounds alike” errors.
  • One year limited warranty included. Extended warranty and preventative maintenance agreements available