Robotic systems
Robotics is a big part of these product handling systems because it adds flexibility and simplicity to the process. The current labor-shortage has made the use of robotics especially advantageous, according to Joel Wiskochil, sales manager, BluePrint Automation, South Chesterfield, VA. “Typically, a robotic system has a small footprint, can be high-speed, is very accurate, is safe to operate and is historically reliable. It also can work three shifts. Coupled with a vision system, it can pick and place un-oriented products from a belt and place them in many containers.”
Fox says the biggest advances are occurring with companies that develop their own robotic systems based on the specific needs of their cartoners and case packers. “With application-specific motion, the number of axis and movements are defined and built into the motion. With pre-packaged robotic arms, the OEM is actually building their system to accommodate the arm.”
Syntegon Packaging Technology, New Richmond, WI, has introduced a robotic pick-and-place platform that facilitates product handling, feeding and loading. Designed as a modular system, it allows individual configuration of the robotic cells. Delta robots can be flexibly connected and, together with transport modules, seamlessly integrated into a system. “Together with our customers, we can automate single process steps consecutively and in line with their needs or budgets, following the principle 'build as you grow.' Moreover, the platform can be scaled to suit different production capacities, while multiple cells can be connected,” says Janet Darnley, product manager.