Manufacturing Facility Research Articles

Compact and simple antenna inspection testing range for 5G smartphones

Abstract Over-the-air antenna performance evaluation in the millimeter-wave band often relies on compact antenna test range systems, which require large reflectors and a substantial measurement range volume. Such setups are impractical for rapid testing in space-constrained environments such as antenna fault diagnosis in smartphone manufacturing facilities. This paper presents a novel design methodology for highly compact antenna inspection testing range utilizing offset parabolic reflectors specifically designed for 5G smartphones. The proposed design system employs three small offset parabolic reflectors configured to account for beam tilting caused by smartphone back covers, eliminating the need to physically reposition the smartphone during testing. By directing electromagnetic fields toward a fixed receiver antenna from multiple angles corresponding to different antenna module positions, the system streamlines the test procedure, significantly reducing measurement time and measurement range volume. The proposed antenna inspection testing range provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for 5G antenna fault diagnosis in manufacturing facilities, ensuring rapid and reliable inspection while minimizing space requirements on the production line.

Modeling of Steel Production Sub-Processes by Probabilistic Time Automaton and Assessing the Risk of Deviation from Stability in the Manufacturing Facility Environment

Modeling of Steel Production Sub-Processes by Probabilistic Time Automaton and Assessing the Risk of Deviation from Stability in the Manufacturing Facility Environment

Device dislodgement and embolization associated with a new leadless pacemaker.

Currently, there are two approved single chamber leadless pacemakers (LP) in the United States (US), Micra VR™; approved since 2016 and AVEIR VR™; approved in 2022. A potential complication of LPs is dislodgement and/or embolization (D/E) during or after implant. According to the IDE trials, there appears to be a significant difference in D/E rates between the two LPs that have different fixation mechanisms; Micra uses nitinol tines, while AVEIR uses an active screw helix. The aim of this study was to determine if the AVEIR VR LP has continued to exhibit D/E in the United States since it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in April 2022. The FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was searched for US D/E reports communicated by the manufacturers of both LP devices. For AVEIR VR we reviewed reports from approval till December 2023, and for Micra VR we looked at reports from approval to April 2024. Excluded were reports based on information indirectly obtained from registries, journals, social media, or volunteers. Total number of US implants was acquired from the manufacturers' product performance reports. During a period of 21 months, 5990 AVEIR VR implants had been registered in the United States, of which 53 (0.88%) encountered D/E both during and after the procedure. More D/E (32; 60.4%) occurred during the implantation procedure, with device release problems being the most prominent procedural issue involved with these events. Within a 8-year period, 72 237 Micra VR implants have been registered in the United States, of which 211 (0.29%) showed D/E. The rate of D/E since the US approval of both devices was significantly higher for AVEIR VR compared to Micra VR (0.88% vs 0.29%; p < .0001). AVEIR VR implants may be complicated by dislodgement with or without embolization. Currently, the estimated incidence is about 0.9%, which is significantly higher than Micra VR. Fixation issues and separation problems of the device from the delivery catheter appear to be responsible for most of these D/E events.

Capacity Constraint Analysis Using Object Detection for Smart Manufacturing

The increasing adoption of Deep Learning (DL)-based Object Detection (OD) models in smart manufacturing has opened up new avenues for optimizing production processes. Traditional industries facing capacity constraints require noninvasive methods for in-depth operations analysis to optimize processes and increase revenue. In this study, we propose a novel framework for capacity constraint analysis that identifies bottlenecks in production facilities and conducts cycle time studies using an end-to-end pipeline. This pipeline employs a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based OD model to accurately identify potential objects on the production floor, followed by a CNN-based tracker to monitor their lifecycle in each workstation. The extracted metadata are further processed through the proposed framework. Our analysis of a real-world manufacturing facility over six months revealed that the bottleneck station operated at only 73.1% productivity, falling to less than 40% on certain days; additionally, the processing time of each item increased by 53% during certain weeks due to critical labor and materials shortages. These findings highlight significant opportunities for process optimization and efficiency improvements. The proposed pipeline can be extended to other production facilities where manual labor is used to assemble parts, and can be used to analyze and manage labor and materials over time as well as to conduct audits and improve overall yields, potentially transforming capacity management in smart manufacturing environments.

Measurement inaccuracy reported via the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database for an implantable pulmonary artery pressure sensor: recalibration direction and magnitude results

Abstract Introduction Remote monitoring using an implantable pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) sensor (CardioMEMS HF system) in patients with heart failure (HF) has been consistently shown to reduce HF hospitalizations [1]. The success of this approach relies on the accurate measurement of diastolic PAP (dPAP) over time to allow early interventions such as diuretic intensification [2]. However, it remains unclear how the measurement accuracy changes over time after the initial calibration at the time of device implantation. Purpose This study aims to identify measurement inaccuracy events and to quantify the magnitude and direction of required device recalibration for CardioMEMS devices as reported in a large-scale regulatory device database. Methods We used the publicly accessible Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) data maintained by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The summary search was performed for the CardioMEMS pulmonary artery pressure sensor for the entire product life cycle from January 2009 to February 2024 [3,4]. The entries related to the measurement accuracy under ‘Device Problems’ categories were obtained. Tested accuracy was reported to have been within ±10mmHg of a reference pressure measurement throughout simulated use for 10 years [5]. Normal range for dPAP is ~8mmHg to 15mmHg [6]. Results A total of 2656 entries were obtained. Following categories were identified for the reported entries: device sensing problem (N=999, 38%); incorrect measurement (N=1349, 52%); incorrect measurement, inappropriate waveform (N=279, 11%), and incorrect, inadequate, or imprecise results or readings (N=29, 1%). After excluding 56 entries for missing information, 2600 entries were included for the analysis. A total of 1676 (64%) entries reported the need for recalibration of the CardioMEMS device. A mean PAP difference (defined as the difference of the mean PAP reference value measured at the time of recalibration minus the CardioMEMS reading obtained during the reference measurement) is shown in Figure 1. Compared to the reference pressure values at the time of recalibration, 488 (29%) of CardioMEMS readings were higher and 1188 (71%) were lower. The absolute recalibration pressure difference was 14.5 ± 9.3 mmHg (mean ± standard deviation, range 0.02-59.3 mmHg). The recalibration by more than 10 mmHg was reported in 1040 (40%) entries. Conclusions Suspected measurement inaccuracy with CardioMEMS device is not uncommon and often necessitate recalibration. Almost one-half (40%) of the recalibrations required more than 10 mmHg correction. These results should inform clinicians to consider recalibration along the course of CardioMEMS monitoring if there is discordance between clinical assessment and the values from the device.Figure 1.Figure 2

A Retrospective Study of the Adverse Events Associated With Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids in the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) Database

A Retrospective Study of the Adverse Events Associated With Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids in the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) Database

Real-World Safety of Prostate Cancer Focal Therapy: MAUDE Database Analysis.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the real-world safety profile of medical devices used in focal prostate cancer treatment utilizing the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. Methods: The MAUDE database was searched for reports on high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), cryoablation, laser ablation, and irreversible electroporation (IRE) devices used in prostate cancer treatment from 1993 to 2023. Adverse events were identified and categorized. Results: We identified 175 reports for HIFU, 1362 for cryoablation, 615 for laser ablation, and 135 for IRE devices, with 28, 284, 126, and 2 respective reports, directly related to prostate cancer treatment. The aggregated data revealed the majority of complications were minor, with 82.5% (n = 363 out of 440 total complications) classified as Clavien-Dindo grade 1 or 2. Common minor complications included erectile dysfunction and urinary retention. Severe complications such as rectal fistulas were noted in HIFU and IRE treatments, along with singular mortality due to pulmonary embolism in cryoablation. Conclusions: Our analyses from MAUDE reveal that devices used in focal therapy for prostate cancer are predominantly associated with minor complications, underscoring their overall real-world safety profile. However, the occurrence of severe adverse events emphasizes the critical importance of rigorous patient selection and meticulous procedural planning. These findings provide valuable insights into the safety profile of focal therapy devices and contribute to the growing body of evidence on their use in prostate cancer treatment.

Optimizing Sheet Metal Formation through Advanced Hydroforming Simulation Technique

In this study, we investigate into the simulation of sheet metal hydroforming for crafting the cap of the axle-hub of a tip trailer within our manufacturing facility. This cap serves a crucial role in safeguarding wheel bearings from the detrimental effects of dust, sand, and dirt. The motivation for this work arises from the challenges encountered during the fixation of a conventional dust cap, which often falls off when subjected to pressure or threading, particularly when the tractor is in motion. The innovative approach pursued in this research involves the utilization of lightweight aluminum sheet metal for cap production, owing to its facile formability. The cap design incorporates four evenly distributed holes around its circumference and secures to the flange using screws. Prior to the manufacturing phase, a simulation of the cap-forming process was conducted using ANSYS Model 15, a computer-aided engineering program. The necessary models were crafted in CATIA, a computer-aided design program, streamlining the entire process to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize manpower requirements. The simulation encompassed three different thicknesses (1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm) for two distinct aluminum alloys, namely 1100 and 5652. The objective was to discern the optimal alloy for the forming process. Essential mechanical properties, including ultimate tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and yield stress, were input into the ANSYS program to accurately reflect the materials' behavior during forming. The outcomes of our investigation revealed that aluminum alloy 5652 outperformed 1100 in terms of formability. The former exhibited a forming pressure of 300.2 MPa, while the latter required 298.3 MPa for the same forming depth (40 mm) across all three thickness variations. Additionally, the study demonstrated that 5652 is not only more efficient but also safer and more resilient than 1100.

Occupational safety and hidden risks in a furniture factory: A comprehensive assessment of hazards related to noise, lighting, thermal comfort, and dust exposure

This study assessed the occupational health and safety conditions in a furniture manufacturing facility, focusing on key environmental factors such as noise, lighting, thermal comfort, and dust exposure. Noise measurements recorded levels as high as 95.3 dB(A) during CNC machine operations, exceeding legal exposure limits of 87 dB(A), posing significant risks to workers’ hearing health. Lighting assessments showed levels ranging from 134 to 247 lux in production lines, which falls below the recommended threshold of 300 lux for adequate visibility. Thermal comfort was evaluated with temperature readings at 14.2 °C and relative humidity at 43%, revealing marginal comfort conditions that could reduce worker efficiency and satisfaction. Dust exposure measurements indicated respirable dust concentrations reaching 3.69 mg/m³ in the cutting department, which is close to the permissible exposure limit of 5 mg/m³, raising concerns about long-term respiratory health. These findings suggest several measures to improve workplace safety, including enhanced engineering controls, mandatory personal protective equipment (PPE), improved lighting systems, optimised thermal conditions, and advanced ventilation to reduce dust exposure. This comprehensive evaluation provides critical insights for improving furniture factories’ occupational health and safety practices.

Experimental Study on Seismic Performance Evaluation of a Multi-Story Steel Building Model with Rolling-Type Seismic Base Isolation

Critical structures such as hospitals, high-precision manufacturing facilities, telecommunications centers, and fire stations, especially, need to maintain their functionality even during severe earthquakes. In this sense, seismic isolation technology serves as a vital design method for preserving their functionality. Seismic isolators, also known as earthquake isolation systems, are used to reduce the effects of earthquakes on buildings by isolating them from the ground they are located on. By ensuring that less acceleration and force demand is transmitted to the superstructure, both the building and the equipment and the devices in the building are prevented from being damaged by earthquakes. This experimental study aims to conduct vibration tests on a small-scale multi-story steel-building model equipped with a specially designed rolling-type seismic base isolation system. The relationship between the test model and the prototype was achieved by frequency simulation. The tests will be performed on a shake table under six different earthquake accelerations to examine the model’s dynamic behavior. The primary goal is to evaluate the isolation performance of the rolling-type seismic base isolator under seismic loads, with a focus on recording the vibrations at the top of the test building. It has been observed that the isolator placed at the base of the building significantly reduced the peak acceleration and displacement values of the floor motion. Under the most severe earthquake record applied to the shake table, the acceleration at the top of the building with the isolator was found to be reduced by approximately 50%, compared to the non-isolated case.

A comparison of procedure-related adverse events between two right ventricular leadless pacemakers.

The Medtronic Micra VR and Abbott AVEIR VR are the leadless pacemakers (LPM) currently available in the United States (US). Micra VR employs fixation tines and the AVEIR VR uses an active fixation helix. Micra VR requires fixation before electrical measurements are obtained, while R-waves may be mapped by AVEIR VR without fixation. Little comparative data is available for these LPMs. Accordingly, we compared the incidences of procedure-related major adverse clinical events (MACE) and device problems in the US for Micra VR and AVEIR VR during 2022-2024. We searched the FDA's Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database for US reports of MACE and device problems that were filed from April 2022 to December 2023 for AVEIR VR, and from June 2022 to April 2024 for Micra VR. Totals for US-registered LPM implants were obtained from the manufacturers' product performance reports. During the study period, 5990 AVEIR VR and 10 940 Micra VR implants were registered in the US. We found 305 MAUDE reports for AVEIR VR (5.1%), versus 541 MAUDE reports for Micra VR (4.9%) (p = .702). The incidence of MACE was 0.72% (43/5990) for AVEIR VR versus 0.59% (65/10 940) for Micra VR, (p = .387). The incidences of procedure-related death, cardiac perforation. cardiac arrest, emergency pericardial drainage or reparative surgery were similar for both LPMs (p > .05). Micra VR had more unacceptable thresholds requiring LPM replacement compared to AVEIR VR (95;0.9% vs. 24;0.4%; p = .001). AVEIR VR had a statistically higher incidence of device dislodgement during (32) and after (21) implant compared to Micra VR (53 (0.9%) vs. 46 (0.4%), p < .001). Micra VR and AVEIR VR have similar procedural safety profiles, including the incidences of death and perforation. However, device problems differed significantly, possibly related to their design differences. Compared to Micra VR, AVEIR VR appears to have an advantageous threshold measurement capability but is more prone to device dislodgement.

Mode 2 critical systems practice for complex safety decisions: Reflections from New Zealand's dairy industry

AbstractPoor decision‐making contributes to disasters in complex industrial systems. Improving group decision‐making practices for safety‐critical interventions is crucial yet hindered by a fragmented safety science literature. Our study applies Jackson's critical systems practice (CSP) to a complex safety problem at a New Zealand dairy manufacturing facility. Reflective practice, employed in the study and writing this article, underlines CSP's usefulness in navigating complex emergent safety challenges. Key insights include clarifying cognitive complexity amongst participants early in an intervention, focusing more sharply on crucial safety outcomes by using critical facilitation and enhancing CSP's ‘Check’ stage using reflective practice. We conclude by calling on scholars to prioritise the application of CSP in real‐world contexts to deepen our understanding of systemic praxis and generate actionable improvements.

Noise emission characteristics of cosmetics manufacturing plants

Recently, a rapid increase in the establishment of cosmetics manufacturing facilities has been observed in Korea because of the growing export of K-beauty products. Many of these factories are certified under good manufacturing practice (GMP) standards and show significant interest in quality management, industrial injury prevention, and productivity enhancement. Among industrial injuries, noise-induced hearing loss holds the largest share, rendering it crucial for industrial injury prevention. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the noise exposure status in cosmetics manufacturing facility spaces. Analysis revealed that the 24-h average continuous noise level (L_eq) was approximately 69.0 dB(A). The measured areas were divided into three rooms based on their purpose, of which the Manufacturing Room showed the highest noise levels ranging from 74.0 to 77.0 dB(A). Additionally, the Blister Packaging and Sealing Room ranged from 64.1 to 66.1 dB(A), and the Box Packing Room ranged from 64.3 to 65.8 dB(A), all within acceptable limits and not exceeding day-night noise correction exposure standards. From the perspective of industrial injury prevention and monitoring, this study aims to implement these measurement results within the metaverse in the future for visualization.

Adverse Events of the Over The Scope Endoscopic Clips and Cutters: A MAUDE Database Analysis

The OVESCO® clip system, including the Over-The-Scope Clip (OTSC) and Full-Thickness Resection Device (FTRD), has demonstrated efficacy in managing various gastrointestinal pathologies. However, real-world data on device malfunctions and patient complications are limited. This study aimed to analyze adverse events associated with OVESCO® clips and cutters reported to the FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database. The MAUDE database was searched for reports related to OVESCO® clips and cutters from January 1, 2007, to August 30, 2024. Event date, device type and model, manufacturer, event type, device problem, and patient complications were extracted. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings. Forty-two reports were identified, with 41 involving OVESCO® clips and one involving an OVESCO® cutter. The most common device problem for OVESCO® clips was failure to deploy (61.0%), followed by unintended deployment or misfiring (17.1%). Gastrointestinal perforation was the most frequently reported patient complication (60%). The OVESCO® cutter report described device component breakage and foreign body retention. No clear trends in adverse event reporting were observed over the study period. OVESCO® clips and cutters are associated with potential device malfunctions and patient complications, particularly gastrointestinal perforation. The findings highlight the need for careful patient selection, meticulous technique, and close post-procedural monitoring. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders are essential to optimize device safety and efficacy. Continued post-marketing surveillance and real-world data analysis are crucial for monitoring the performance of endoscopic devices and improving patient outcomes.

Adverse events related to laser fibers and laser machines during ureteroscopy and stone lithotripsy: Insights from an updated 10-year analysis of the US MAUDE database.

Ureteroscopy has become increasingly chosen as a treatment of choice for patients with kidney stone disease and laser as the energy source for stone lithotripsy is a key part of this. Our aim was to analyse a national database to evaluate the burden of adverse events related to laser fibers and laser machines. Search was performed of the Manufacturer User and Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database in the United States for all events related to holmium laser fibers and holmium laser machines during ureteroscopy between 2012-2021. Information collected included the following: problem, timing, prolonged anaesthesia, early termination of procedure, injury and retained parts. 699 holmium laser fiber events were reported and these had been manufactured by 13 different companies. The commonest problems were breakage outside the patient while in use (26.3%) and breakage of the laser fiber tip (21.2%). Manufacturers concluded root cause to be device failure in 8.9%. 29% of issues occurred before the laser had been activated. 5.2% of cases had to be cancelled as a result of an event. Significantly more injuries were sustained intra-operatively by operating staff compared to patients (6% vs. 0.2%, p < 0.001). All these injuries were superficial burns to the skin with the hand being the most affected body part (88.1%). Zero ocular injuries were reported. Only eight events were related to laser machines and all involved sudden hardware failure but no patient injury. Laser fibers are fragile. Most adverse events are due to operator error. Direct patient injury from laser fiber is scarce but operating staff should be aware of the risk of sustaining minor burns. Laser machines rarely incur problems and, in this study, did not result in any safety issues beyond need to abort the procedure due to lack of spare equipment.

Safety 4.0: Harnessing computer vision for advanced industrial protection

In the pursuit of enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and minimized lead times, manufacturers are transitioning from traditional systems to autonomous systems. This shift, driven by the emergence of smart manufacturing and technological advancements such as robotics, collaborative robots (Cobots), automation, and digitalization, necessitates a parallel evolution in safety protocols—termed Safety 4.0—to mitigate the risks associated with such dynamic environments. The integration of smart technologies within manufacturing significantly transforms traditional workflows and intensifies the need for comprehensive safety training and guidelines. Innovations like smart personal protective equipment (PPE) and wearable sensors are pivotal in this transition, yet they often prove financially burdensome for manufacturers due to high costs and the scale of workforce deployment. Moreover, the effective use of these technologies requires continuous monitoring and data analysis, further straining resources. To address these challenges, this paper proposes the adoption of computer vision technology to enhance safety measures within manufacturing facilities, focusing on human and PPE detection. It details a holistic methodology encompassing data collection, preprocessing, training, and execution. The discussion extends to the implementation framework of this technology, emphasizing its role in enabling autonomous decision-making—a crucial step beyond mere detection. Furthermore, the paper explores the utilization of the accumulated data to develop immersive training modules employing Mixed Reality, thereby reinforcing safety protocols and fostering an environment of continuous learning and adaptation. This approach not only contributes to safeguarding personnel but also aligns with the financial and reputational interests of forward-thinking manufacturers.

Water-Enhancing Gels Exhibiting Heat-Activated Formation of Silica Aerogels for Protection of Critical Infrastructure During Catastrophic Wildfire.

A promising strategy to address the pressing challenges with wildfire, particularly in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), involves developing new approaches for preventing and controlling wildfire within wildlands. Among sprayable fire-retardant materials, water-enhancing gels have emerged as exceptionally effective for protecting civil infrastructure. They possess favorable wetting and viscoelastic properties that reduce the likelihood of ignition, maintaining strong adherence to a wide array of surfaces after application. Although current water-enhancing hydrogels effectively maintain surface wetness by creating a barricade, they rapidly desiccate and lose efficacy under high heat and wind typical of wildfire conditions. To address this limitation, unique biomimetic hydrogel materials from sustainable cellulosic polymers crosslinked by colloidal silica particles are developed that exhibit ideal viscoelastic properties and facile manufacturing. Under heat activation, the hydrogel transitions into a highly porous and thermally insulative silica aerogel coating in situ, providing a robust protective layer against ignition of substrates, even when the hydrogel fire suppressant becomes completely desiccated. By confirming the mechanical properties, substrate adherence, and enhanced substrate protection against fire, these heat-activatable biomimetic hydrogels emerge as promising candidates for next-generation water-enhancing fire suppressants. These advancements have the potential to dramatically improve the ability to protect homes and critical infrastructure during wildfire.

Defect passivation with spectral shift for improved efficiency and stability of quasi-2D blue perovskite light emitting diodes

Metal halide perovskites are emerging as promising materials for next-generation light-emitting diodes (LEDs), owing to their cost-effectiveness, facile manufacturing, and excellent optoelectronic properties including a narrow emission-line full width at half maximum, high photoluminescence quantum yield, and spectral stability. However, blue-emission perovskite LEDs (PeLEDs) exhibit perovskite phase segregation and halogen ion migration during operation, attributed to crystal defects, halogen vacancies, and phase instability of mixed-halide perovskites. These defects compromise the spectral stability of blue-emitting PeLEDs, resulting in an undesirable color shift toward longer wavelengths. In this study, we introduce a dynamic treatment with phenylphosphonic dichloride (PPOCl2) to address these challenges and achieve blue-emitting PeLEDs. The chloride in PPOCl2 penetrates the quasi-2D sky-blue perovskite, reducing halide defects. Meanwhile, the phosphonic group forms covalent bonds with undercoordinated Pb on the perovskites, effectively passivating defects. PPOCl2-treated perovskite exhibits a spectral blue shift toward a deep-blue wavelength (≤467 nm), enhancing electroluminescence performance. The quasi-2D PPOCl2-treated PeLEDs achieve a maximum external quantum efficiency of 2.31 % with an emission peak at 488 nm. Dynamic treatment with PPOCl2 shows the potential to improve the performance and stability of blue emission perovskite-based LEDs, providing a spectral shift mechanism to achieve deep-blue emission in PeLEDs.

Pulmonary Artery Injury Following Endocardial Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion: The Known and Unknown.

Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is frequent alternative for stroke prophylaxis in patients for whom oral anticoagulation is contraindicated. Pulmonary artery injury (PAI) is a feared yet rare complication of endocardial LAAC, but its surrounding literature is scarce. The aim of the current study was to review prior PAI published reports and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database to understand evidence and mechanisms of PAI after LAAC. A systematic review was conducted of the literature and MAUDE database for previously reported cases of PAI, and cases were reviewed for patient characteristics and outcomes. In addition, we identify risks and review our strategies to avoid this injury. Thirty-six cases (16 case reports and 20 MAUDE reports) of PAI were found. These patients had a mean age of 73.6 ± 8.2 years with a median CHA2DS2VASC score of 5 (quartile 1-quartile 3: 3-6). Most commonly, LAAC associated with PAI involved a dual-seal (75%) followed by lobular occlusive devices (19.4%); the device was unspecified in 2.8% of cases. PAI commonly presented postprocedurally, either within the first 24 hours (50%) or beyond (38.9%), with cardiac tamponade (61.1%) or cardiac arrest (19.4%). Overall, 52.8% required surgery with or without antecedent pericardiocentesis, and 16.7% were managed with pericardiocentesis. PAI was associated with a high mortality rate (ie,33.3%). Unfortunately, no specific cardiac imaging or procedural details to predict PAI were noted in the reports. Presentation of PAI after LAAC can occur immediately following the procedure or be delayed. Thus, the threshold for suspicion, especially with rapid and hemodynamically significant pericardial effusion, after LAAC should be low.

A holistic approach to kitting cart optimization and steel receiving analysis for process improvement

This paper investigates the optimization potential within the steel-receiving process and kitting cart management in modern manufacturing facilities. As evidenced by a 20% improvement at Asuruf Industrial, the study indicates how the increasing popularity of kitting, with its capacity to reduce assembly time and space through pre-sorted kits, synergizes with vital efficiency gains in steel receiving. The implementation of Lean manufacturing tools, coupled with strategic interventions, yielded significant operational enhancements, resulting in an annual savings of $121,143. This success reinforces that structured operational strategies and Lean tools are indispensable for elevating manufacturing productivity and profitability. Anticipating a 45 to 50% increase through automation and preventative maintenance, the study underscores ongoing improvements in the steel-receiving process, emphasizing the crucial role of teamwork and Lean principles in addressing industry challenges. This approach not only ensures heightened productivity and competitiveness in the manufacturing sector.