Special Systems

Force and service life testing

The MCD Elektronik inhaler validation tester verifies the mechanical and functional properties of inhalation systems

Developed in cooperation with Dr. Wiesner, it enables precise force, angle and service life measurements under realistic conditions in the medical technology sector.
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Challenges and concept

The validation tester is designed for complete mechanical and functional testing of inhalers. Actuation cycles, actuation forces, latching mechanisms, torques and actuation angles must be recorded precisely and documented automatically to enable reproducible assessment of component function throughout its service life.

Validierungstester für Inhalatoren-1024x683

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Special Systems

Außenspiegel

Force and service life testing

Automated validation of force, movement and service life

MCD Elektronik combines high-precision force measurement with rotary encoder technology and automated evaluation. Repeated actuation cycles are simulated under realistic conditions, while force-displacement curves, torques and angular movements are recorded continuously.

This enables the smallest changes in mechanical behavior to be detected early and wear to be assessed transparently. The system is suitable for development and validation tasks as well as automated endurance tests.

Test type
Force & service life test
Measured variables
Force, torque & angle
Test sequence
Fully automated
Test and functional scope

The validation tester combines service life testing, high-precision force measurement and motion analysis for reproducible mechanical and functional testing of inhalers:

Validation tester for inhalers
Front view of the test system
Test mechanics, pneumatics and protective housing
Test station for force and motion measurement
Side view of the validation tester
Measurement mechanics and operator monitor
Operator monitor of the validation tester
Detailed view of the test software
Measured values, angles and test result

Repeated operating processes are simulated automatically under realistic conditions to assess inhaler function throughout its service life.

  • Service life testing of inhalers under realistic conditions
  • Simulation of repeated actuation cycles
  • Automated execution of test sequences
  • Assessment of component function over its service life

Actuation forces are recorded with high precision and evaluated together with the associated travel distances.

  • Continuous recording of force-displacement curves
  • High-precision force measurement
  • Detection of the smallest changes in actuation behavior
  • Early identification of wear

Rotary encoders precisely record mechanical motion sequences and enable evaluation of torques, actuation angles and latching mechanisms.

  • Measurement of torques
  • Recording angular movements and actuation angles
  • Precise recording of motion sequences with rotary encoders
  • Evaluation of latching mechanisms

All test steps and measurement results are processed and documented automatically, creating a transparent database for development and validation.

  • Automated evaluation of measurement results
  • Fully automatic documentation of tests
  • Reproducible assessment of component function
  • Use for development, validation and endurance testing
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Reproducible assessment throughout the entire service life

The combination of force measurement, rotary encoder technology and automated evaluation enables precise assessment of mechanical changes and supports long-term assurance of product quality.

Test methods used and results

The test system combines high-precision mechanical measurement technology with TestManager CE software and a modular control architecture. Fully automatic test sequences and continuous documentation create reproducible results and a tamper-proof database.

Test software and control architecture
Control of test sequences with TestManager CE
ULC multifunction card as part of the modular control system
TestSequencer for sequence control
Mechanical measurement methods
High-precision force measurement for assessing actuation forces
Recording of force-displacement curves
Rotary encoder technology for measuring torques and angular movements
Automation and operation
Fully automatic execution of tests
Touchscreen PC for intuitive control of the test sequence
Automatic documentation of all test results
Validation and quality assurance
Tamper-proof database for test results
System validation in cooperation with Dr. Wiesner
Suitability for demanding medical technology applications
Use for development, validation and endurance testing

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQS

The system validates inhalers from the medical technology sector that are mainly used to administer medication via the respiratory tract. Inhalers are used, for example, to administer active ingredients orally for the treatment of asthma, COPD or other respiratory diseases.
A validation tester primarily tests mechanical actuation and service life functions. These include actuation cycles, the latching device, mechanical triggering, actuation angle, torque, and the measurement and documentation of actuation forces.
Actuation force and angle describe how the inhaler is triggered mechanically and whether the operating movement remains within defined limits. Excessive force can make use difficult, while insufficient force risks accidental or incomplete actuation. The tester therefore measures and documents these parameters to assess device function.
Service life testing shows whether an inhaler’s mechanical functions remain stable after repeated actuation, demonstrating usability throughout its intended life rather than only when new. Endurance cycles, actuation forces, detent points and torque curves are monitored to detect wear, stiff mechanics or changed triggering conditions at an early stage.
The technical approach is suitable not only for inhalers but for mechanical components in general where forces, displacements, angles, torques or service life cycles must be tested—products where lasting mechanical function and reproducible actuation are key quality features.

KEY FACTS

Key facts at a glance

Test system
Special test system / validation tester
Handling
Automatic within the test sequence – measurement, test execution and documentation are automated.
Concept
Single test bench / special test bench with mechanical test fixture
Test methods & scope
Mechanical: loads/forces, torque measurement, angle measurement, actuation cycles and service life cycles.
Haptic / functional: testing of actuation, latching device and force-displacement behavior.
Components
TestManager CE, ULC multifunction card, TestSequencer, force measurement, rotary encoder, touchscreen PC

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