Process and Automation

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Quality-by-design principles enhance a thorough understanding of both product and process technology, which is needed for optimization of solid-dosage manufacturing, including processes for improving solubility, such as hot-melt extrusion, softgels, and liquid-filled capsules.

Process analytical technology (PAT) is being successfully used to improve understanding and optimize pharmaceutical unit operations, but greater value can be obtained by integrating PAT with overall process control of a continuous manufacturing system. Pharmaceutical Technology spoke with Ivo Backx, manager of business and project development for the pharmaceutical industry at Siemens Industry Automation Division, to gain insight on the issues involved.

The International Society of Automation’s (ISA’s) 7th Marketing and Sales Summit, held Aug. 15–17, 2012 in Austin, Texas, was themed “New Rules of Customer Engagement: Riding the Winds of Change”, and emphasized the need to adapt to the changing needs, expectations, and behaviors of marketplace decision makers, according to an Aug. 27, 2012 press release.