Automated Dispenser for Packaged Medicine

Medical & care

Design for Industry, Engineering

Client
Z-tech
Machine design and engineering
Z-tech, in collaboration with IDpartners, has developed an automated dispenser for packaged medicine based on an industrial robot. Inside the system is a carousel consisting of two layers where the medication is sorted per patient. The centrally placed robot arm is used for sorting and issuing the medicine packages. The system can be filled by the pharmacy’s employees through two large access doors. The patient can request his medication via a large touchscreen.
The result is an efficient, safe and user-friendly dispensing solution that relieves the burden on pharmacy staff and offers patients a convenient self-service solution.
Client: Z-tech
Medicijnenrobot, Automated Packaged Medicine Dispenser

Design

The medication dispensing system has been specifically designed for installation in pharmacy environments. As a result, contemporary appearance was a key design objective, with aesthetics that integrate seamlessly into modern pharmacy interiors. The use of high-quality materials, clean lines, and a fresh finish gives the machine a professional appearance while conveying both quality and hygiene.

The underlying carousel principle forms the basis of the design language and is reflected in the distinctive cylindrical main shape. The customer-facing interaction and dispensing area is emphasized through contrasting forms, colors, and materials. Around the digital user interface and dispensing opening, a wood-effect finish has been applied, creating a warm, welcoming, and sustainable appearance.

The remaining parts of the machine feature a predominantly white finish with large, frosted windows. This enhances the product’s hygienic and modern character. The frosted panels allow the machine’s internal movements to be partially visible and admit natural light, while ensuring that privacy-sensitive information remains concealed from external view.

Use and operation

Significant attention has also been paid to the user experience of pharmacy staff. Large access doors and integrated lighting enable orders to be loaded safely and efficiently. The process is largely automated: once an order is loaded, it is automatically scanned, and the patient receives an SMS notification as soon as the medication is ready for collection.

Pharmacy machine design, product design

Engineering and Realization

In addition to providing industrial design, IDpartners contributed to the engineering and realization of the enclosure. Based on an integrated preliminary design, the frame and outer housing were combined into a cohesive solution, with a strong focus on usability, maintenance, and accessibility of the internal components.

Furthermore, we were responsible for the technical development of the enclosure and guided the realization of the prototype through to the production of the initial pilot series. Our Scope of Work:

  • Translating structural and enclosure components into a manufacturable sheet-metal design.
  • Developing door constructions, hinge concepts, sensor integration, and mounting solutions for the frosted windows.
  • Managing the design and integration of the wood-look interface panel, including coordination with suppliers for production and implementation.
  • Supporting engineering activities, prototype development, and preparation for series production.

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