Keywords
Citation
(1999), "Motoman introduces modular, pre-engineered PackWorld : new standard for robotic packaging of consumer products", Industrial Robot, Vol. 26 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.1999.04926daf.003
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 1999, MCB UP Limited
Motoman introduces modular, pre-engineered PackWorld : new standard for robotic packaging of consumer products
Motoman introduces modular, pre-engineered PackWorld® : new standard for robotic packaging of consumer products
Keywords Packaging, Food, Robots
Motoman continues its modular concept for robotic solutions with PackWorld. Its standard components, including a Motoman high-speed, six-axis robot, MRC controller and menu-driven application software, an integrated gripper package, powered conveyor(s), and an operator interface, keep engineering costs low and provide the reliable automation needed in consumer product packaging.
PackWorld's flexible add-on modules allow for customizing or upgrading system capabilities with divider sheet insertion, bar code interface, case erectors and sealers, label applicators, multiple standard grippers, and off-line programming.
At the heart of each PackWorld is one of Motoman's high-speed robots. The SV3, SK6, and SK16 robots are available depending upon payload and reach requirements. Each flexible robot has six degrees of freedom so they easily place products in nonpartitioned cases unlike dedicated hard automation. Each robot can also place products in partitioned cases. These robots can be equipped with various grippers (i.e. mechanical or vacuum) depending upon the application. Reconfigurable grippers can accommodate a complete range of consumer products, including bottles, small boxes, bags, or irregular shapes, and can make multiple picks at a time (see Plate 2).
Plate 2 Modular solution provides all the automation
for consumer product packaging, robot can make multiple picks at a time.
The SV3 robot handles payloads up to 3kg (6.6lbs) and has a maximum reach of 677mm (26.6in). The SK6 features a payload of 6kg (13.2lbs) and extends to 1,325mm (52.2in). The SK16 offers a payload of 16kg (35.2lbs) and reach of 1,555mm (61.22in).
PackWorld reliability, especially important for automation, is a major factor for its high performance. These robots boast over a 50,000 hour MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure) average for both the robot manipulator and controller. PackWorld is fully safeguarded from power loss with special power failure recovery processing and absolute encoders that require no homing operation after power loss. Users can now avoid costly start-up delays after power failures, emergency stops, or planned shutdowns.
The controller for the Motoman robots is the user-friendly MRC controller which features an expanded programming pendant, playback box, and dedicated application software. The programming pendant is ergonomically designed to provide easy operation. Dedicated pendant keys actuate mechanical or vacuum grippers to help simplify the programming process. The MRC controller provides special software and control features to handle simple to advanced packaging applications.
For more information on PackWorld or other Motoman products, call 937/8473300 or write to Motoman, Inc., 805 Liberty Lane, West Carrollton, Ohio, USA 45449.