PACKAGING RESOURCE CENTER
The Latest in Product Handling Equipment
Noncontact Conveyor
 |
A roller curve conveyor features noncontact, zero-pressure accumulation that stages from the discharge end around virtually any degree of curve. The PosiGrip can be combined with an accumulation conveyor to provide uninterrupted accumulation with no external sensors or logic. The PosiGrip’s roller-drive gear teeth, powered by synchronous belting in a positive drive, are formed directly into the rollers. The system requires no lubrication and no separate sprockets, gears, or welded drive components, making it easy to maintain, and clean. TKF Inc., Cincinnati; 513/241-5910; www.tkf.com.
Linear Actuator
 |
A line of linear actuators adds a compact-sized design for for use in the medical device industry. The Mini ScrewRail functions in medical and auto-dispensing systems, medical instrumentation, and medical packaging. The Mini ScrewRail consists of a rolled lead screw supported by sealed bearings contained within a concentric steel guide rail driving an integrated nut and bushing. All alignment requirements are performed within the actuator, making support and positioning of the 0.375-in.-diam Mini ScrewRail less critical than with traditional slide assemblies. Kerk Motion Products Inc., Hollis, NH; 603/465-7227; www.kerkmotion.com.
Palletizer Cell
 |
A palletizer cell incorporates a robot to create single-pallet, dual-pallet, and multiple-pallet cell configurations. The M-16iC Robotic Mini Palletizer Cell uses a Fanuc M-16iC robot, which can be arranged to handle payloads of 22 or 44 lb and reach from 59 to 68 in., depending on payload, in multiple configurations. Other models of Fanuc robots can also be specified for heavier payloads or longer reaches. The device palletizes 25–30 cases per minute at the standard pallet size of 40 × 48 in. with a 62-in. stack height. ESS Technologies Inc., Blacksburg, VA; 540/ 961-5716; www.esstechnologies.com.
Vacuum-Gripping Machine
 |
A series of vacuum-grip machines are comprised of three gripper-system sizes that allow users to increase productivity and lower operating costs. The VGS series provides varying levels of vacuum flow and a range of flexible-material handling solutions that reduce energy consumption, have faster response times, and improve reliability. The VGS conforms to applications on pick-and-place, injection molding, and palletizing production lines. The VGS series features an integrated Coax cartridge to accurately place suction, and Duraflex suction cups in varying sizes. PIAB, Hingham, MA; 781/337-6864; www.piab.com.
Pile Turner
A fully automatic pile turner aims to eliminate back injuries associated with heavy lifting and reduce production costs. The 4848LT turns loads 180 degrees automatically and clamps a skid in position, lifting and holding it in place above the load. After turning, this skid is used under the next load. As a result, the operator never handles the skid. The 4848LT’s complete automation requires the operator to push only one button, freeing up the contoller to perform other duties while the machine operates. The pile turner has a 48 × 48–in. capacity. Woodward Jogger Aerators Inc., East Rutherford, NJ; 201/933-6800; www.joggeraerator.com.
Gantry Robot
 |
A gantry robot integrates with two-part metering and mixing systems. The I&J9000 series of machines include Cartesian gantry designs selected for a conveyor-fed process or when robot movement is above the work, such as in a spray application. A remote meter and mixing head can be mounted on the robot’s z-axis arm, which can bear 7 kg running at 1000 mm/sec. The robot stores up to 100 programs of 3000 points per program at a repeatability of 20 µm and a resolution of 10 µm. The unit handles applications of up to 800 × 600 mm. I&J Fisnar Inc., Fair Lawn, NJ; 201/796-1477; www.ijfisnar.com.
Palletizer
 |
A small-footprint, high-level, high-capacity palletizer is capable of forming complex patters with gaps in both directions. The SP4000 palletizer features a biparting stripper apron, an articulating row-pusher bar, and centering side-layer guides with Smart Squeeze technology. The biparting stripper combined with case stops in the row-forming area allows the SP4000 to create gaps front to back and side to side in a layer. The articulating row-pusher bar maintains a square position against the row of product. Smart Squeeze recognizes the correct orientation of the product pattern. Columbia Machine Inc., Vancouver, WA; 800/628-4065; www.palletizing.com.
