Packaging Automation
An end-of-line automation concept that links case packing, case handling and palletising of packaged products. Line control is designed to work in step with the existing packaging machine.
01 / 03
Problem
Case packing and palletising at the end of the line were done by hand. Heavy, repetitive lifting created ergonomic risks, and pallet-pattern errors after product changes were only spotted at shipping.
02 / 03
Engineering Approach
Taking the machine that sets the line's pace as the reference, we defined buffer zones and speed profiles. Pallet patterns became selectable on the HMI together with the product recipe.
Signal exchange with the existing packaging machine was defined through a standard interface, so the end of the line can slow down or hold according to the status of the upstream machine.
Project images
Click an image to enlarge · 5 images
03 / 03
Applied System
The system was structured so that its mechanical, electrical and automation layers were designed by one team. Main components:
System components
- Robotic pick-and-place station
- Case conveyors and diverters
- Palletising robot with a vacuum gripper
- Pallet infeed / outfeed conveyors
- Safety fencing and light curtain with muting
- Line PLC and communication with the upstream machine
