Medical Device Link.

MATERIALS

Another good example of synergy between metal and plastic components is this surgical case and tray that holds the orthopedic instruments discussed in Example 2. It has to meet the same requirements as the last two application examples.

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The plastic components for the tray—the corner bums and tray handles—serve varying functions in the final assembly. Eight bumpers are molded of TPE resin and fastened mechanically to the corners of the case. They help absorb energy during a drop test, which the fully loaded case and tray must pass per specification. Ergonomic handles are integrated into the tray’s sidewalls. They are molded of PPSU and are mechanically fastened as well. The process is injection molding to the final net shape; no further secondary operations or machining are required.

The combination of metal and plastic parts results in improved functionality over an all-metal design.