Medical “Innovative Connections”

Challenge: As the market leader in wire and cable assembly solutions, MWCC recognized a need in the medical aftermarket for a vastly improved pulse oximetry assembly design. Existing products often failed and were unacceptable to the rigorous hospital demands. The complexity of these products led to cable and part breakage. In addition, the clip tension caused discomfort with patients.

Solution: Our engineering staff pro-actively designed and tested a new pulse oximetry assembly design. The simpler design greatly improved the flex life of the cable and its overall appearance. Oximetry manufacturers soon recognized our patient-friendly design and adopted it as a replacement to their assemblies. Patients were happy too, no longer were the clips uncomfortable.

Defense “Soldier Safety First”

Challenge: Minnesota Defense, a subsidiary of MWCC was asked to design a specialized interconnect solution that met all the criteria set forth by the U.S. Army for its "Land Warrior" program. It was to be combat-capable, ruggedized, and serviceable for withstanding the harshest combat conditions. These wearable computer systems were crucial for keeping soldiers safe.

Solution: Tapping into our extensive knowledge base, our engineers quickly designed and environment-tested prototypes using an integrated system of wires, connectors, and overmolds. The Soldier Interconnect 1.0™ was developed in a matter of weeks, increased the system’s flex life by 27-times, and exceeded the Army’s vibration/shock requirements. The project surpassed all time and quality expectations of the Army.

"Minnesota Wire & Cable Company’s role in providing highly reliable Land Warrior systems is absolutely critical. Our recent test successes are directly attributable to Minnesota Wire & Cable’s dedication to quality,"

– LTC David Gallop, Program Manager,
Land Warrior, US Army.

Test & Measurement "Test early, test often"

Challenge: A Colorado medical manufacturer was experiencing a 25-percent failure rate of its electrosurgical cords. Approximately, one-fifth of all goods required assembly rework as a result of an unforeseen design issue. Engineers at MWCC were promptly asked to isolate and correct the difficulty.

Solution: After MWCC’s comprehensive test and measurement analysis was conducted, it was revealed that a new design would eliminate the problems occurring at the connector/ cable junction. Our design team quickly prototyped the new version and demonstrated its superior qualities to the customer. As a result, our client was very pleased and affirms their manufacturability and product longevity has greatly improved. In fact, field failure rates have decreased to less than one percent while assembly rework has essentially been eliminated.