PLC-controlled robotic case packing, unpacking

Intelligrated demonstrates Alvey Robotics operating on industry-standard PLC controls for improved line integration.

October 5, 2011

Intelligrated, a North American-owned automated material handling solutions provider, showed the latest in Alvey robotic case packing, unpacking, and palletizing capabilities at Pack Expo Las Vegas 2011 on Sept. 26-28. Two robotic arms operated on one PLC-based control system performing robotic case unpacking and case packing of bottles. A third robotic arm operated on proprietary robotic controls demonstrating case palletizing. The demonstration was designed to interest to companies seeking to integrate robotics into existing fill lines, including wineries, distilleries and craft breweries.

With quick line changeovers becoming more prevalent, companies are looking at automation to avoid downtime and gain efficiencies. Alvey Robotics from Intelligrated, operating on industry-standard controls, enable customers to deploy efficient and repeatable robotics solutions that seamlessly integrate with other line equipment. By maintaining a familiar control platform, existing personnel can support these Intelligrated robotic applications without being "robotic experts.”

“With today’s production line handling multiple SKUs, varied product sizes, new packaging configurations and quick line changeovers, companies are now looking to automate processes that are typically done manually,” said Steve Ackerman, executive vice president, Intelligrated. “The key to getting the most out of your robotics solution is the communication process, and complete line automation is made possible with PLC-based control systems.”

Intelligrated offers one-source responsibility for complete integrated robotic systems using Fanuc, Motoman, or Kuka arms, including system design, simulation, fabrication, installation, commissioning and after-sales customer support. Alvey robotics system capabilities include EOATs, case unscramblers, automated pallet or sheet dispensers, infeed conveyors for single or multiple lines, full-load pallet discharge conveyors, sortation solutions, advanced PLC control systems, vision systems, as well as stretchwrapper integration.

www.intelligrated.com

-Edited by Mark T. Hoske, CFE Media, Control Engineering, Plant Engineering.

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