Vendors Improved Packaging Mechanical Performance

[Chinese Packaging Network News] The recent advancements in two key technologies highlight the growing interest among machinery manufacturers like ABB and packaging specialists such as BluePrint Automation in optimizing resource allocation across industrial equipment. By enhancing mechanical capabilities, these companies are driving significant progress in the packaging sector.

At the recent packaging exhibition, a wide range of packaging machines showcased cutting-edge hardware and software improvements, enabling more efficient and effective solutions for packagers. These innovations are helping to streamline operations and improve productivity.

Rick Tallian, ABB’s manager of packaging products and applications, provided an in-depth overview of the latest developments in hardware at the event. For instance, the ABB IRB 1200 has become lighter and 10% faster than its predecessor, allowing it to function effectively in larger workspaces. This evolution has expanded the robot's applicability in various packaging tasks.

In addition to hardware improvements, ABB has also made significant strides in software development. According to Tallian, the company recently upgraded its control room and palletizing capabilities. “With our palletizing power, we can now simulate an entire mechanical palletizing cell,” he explained. ABB has tested performance in a virtual environment and found the simulation results to be remarkably accurate.

A new feature called the Robot Studio Picking Power Pac introduces real-time prediction of "select simulation," displayed as an on-screen monitor in the upper left corner of the robotic architecture image. This enhancement allows system integrators and end users to easily design and develop alternative simulations, which can then be directly loaded into the mechanical controller. “This makes the integration process much smoother and more intuitive,” Tallian added.

Blueprint Optimization Machinery

BluePrint Automation’s classification and space system is designed to optimize one of the most challenging aspects of flexible packaging workflows. This modular, narrow system mass-produces items like bags before they are arranged by vision-guided machinery downstream. At the exhibition, a reader (visible on the right side of the top image) separated the bags at the front of the triangular dispenser.

The system offers flexibility, allowing packaging machines to add or remove modules based on demand. Each of the 10 modules features a dual-lane configuration. It automatically separates and flips the packaged product, making it ideal for pitching and rolling applications. With a maximum speed of 300 bags per minute, the system is also compatible with thermoforming processes.

According to a company representative, Robbie Quinlin, a customer installed 10 modules of this system just three months ago. The feedback from the client has been very positive, highlighting the system's reliability and efficiency in real-world conditions.