As autoinjectors become essential tools for delivering weekly medications, especially in fast-growing therapeutic areas like weight-management drugs. Manufacturers must ensure that each device performs safely, consistently, and comfortably for the patient.
How engineers confidently verified compliance with medical standards and delivered safer, more consistent autoinjectors to market.
Interface’s ideal solution is by integrating the SMTM Micro S-Type Load Cell into an automated autoinjector test machine, equipped with a precision linear actuator. The SMTM offers the accuracy, sensitivity, and small size factor required for capturing the force profile of an autoinjector. The measurements can be captured using the 9330 Battery Powered High Speed Data Logging Indicator through an SD card, or laptop directly.
What is an autoinjector?
An autoinjector is a spring-loaded medical device that automatically inserts a needle and delivers a dose of medication when pressed against the skin. It’s widely used for self-administered therapies, such as biologic drugs and chronic condition treatments.
Why is force testing important for autoinjectors?
Force testing evaluates the mechanical behaviour of an autoinjector during activation. It ensures the device operates reliably, delivers accurate doses, and feels comfortable for the user — all of which are essential for regulatory compliance and patient safety.
What is a load cell?
A load cell is a precision sensor that converts applied force into an electrical signal. In autoinjector testing, load cells measure the forces exerted during plunger travel to characterise activation and injection performance.
What does “force profile” mean?
A force profile is a graph or dataset showing how force changes throughout the injection cycle. It reveals how smoothly the device operates, how much resistance users might feel, and whether performance stays within expected limits.
What role does a linear actuator play in testing?
A linear actuator drives controlled, consistent movement of the autoinjector’s internal plunger during testing. This simulates real-world use in a repeatable way so that engineers can objectively evaluate force behaviour.
What is a data logging indicator?
A data logging indicator records the output from the load cell over time. This lets engineers capture and review the force measurements later, either from an SD card or directly on a laptop.
How do engineers use synchronised data?
By synchronising force readings with actuator motion, engineers can validate whether the autoinjector meets functional requirements — such as smooth delivery and dose accuracy — and make informed design or quality decisions.
Read about:
Interface Force Measurements Ltd is a UK-based engineering specialist in force, torque, and pressure measurement systems. As the master distributor and technical centre for Interface load cells across the UK, Ireland, the Middle East, and North Africa, we do far more than simply supply products — we design, build, and support complete measurement solutions tailored to customer applications.
Our newly established UK calibration laboratory represents a major investment in UK capability. It enables us to provide comprehensive in-house calibration, testing, and verification services, to our customers. While ensuring every solution we deliver meets the highest international standards. This facility reinforces our commitment to supporting UK industry with precision, reliability, and fast turnaround times.
Working with world-class partners such as Interface, DDM Sensor Solutions, AMTI Force Measurement Systems, GP:50 Pressure Sensors, and XSENSOR Intelligent Dynamic Sensing, we integrate cutting-edge transducers, sensors, and instrumentation into fully engineered systems.
All of our partners share our values of quality, reliability, and customer focus. Whether you need a standard transducer, a custom-designed force measurement system, or complete system calibration and support, Interface Force Measurements provides manufacturer-grade solutions with UK-based technical expertise and service.