In our newest episode, Nick and Chuck discuss cycle testing for medical device cart and platform components.
You expect your medical cart to operate trouble-free for a long time. But how can you be sure those expectations will be reality? By making sure the manufacturer conducts cycle testing (endurance testing) rather than relying on an “overdesign and hope for the best” approach.
Whether it’s drawer slides, arm joints, wheels or locks, cycle testing as many parts as possible not only helps identify potential functionality problems prior to production, but also helps ensure a cart’s durability over its projected lifespan – whether that’s 5 years or 25 years. Such testing also helps in terms of planning the need for replacement parts.
While parts suppliers often provide us data on the lifespan of certain parts, more often than not we’ve found this data varies on customers medical cart applications and functionalities. We’ve also learned from much experience that parts that are used harshly, under pressure or simply misused break or fail much sooner than the manufacturer’s data indicate.
As a result, we’ve come to operate under a “if it moves, we cycle test it” approach, performing our own in-house cycle testing.
Testing carts in-house gives HUI the ability to design, test and make changes within the development process, making the entire project run more smoothly and cost effectively, while also ensuring long-term cart performance and reliability.
There are many things to consider when exploring OEM medical cart solution and what it will cost to design and manufacture. HUI has over 20 years of experience designing custom medical carts to a budget. If you’d like more information, or need help with your medical cart solution, contact us today.
