A new series of feeder-placer robotic systems has been launched as part of the PFM Packaging Machinery range.
The high-speed Flexpicker, which combines pick and place robotics with an advanced vision system to place products in a chosen orientation, is designed to increase packing throughput.
The modular machine reaches a maximum speed of 120 individual products a minute.
The product arrives on the belt in bulk where a digital video camera identifies the individual units and a suction pick-up system transfers the product from the belt and arranges it in the correct position - either inside a cell-moulded box, a tray, or directly onto the feed belt of the flowrap machine.
The robot is able to identify faulty products and eliminate them before packaging in some cases.
The system, which is designed to allow several robots to be incorporated within the same packaging line, uses a single interface for programming and managing the process.
PFM sales and operations director Chris Bolton said: “In the produce industry, where the fluidity of the labour market is a constant factor, the minimum of system training is highly desirable, as are the tool-free, simple and quick routine maintenance, cleaning and product change-over operations. All our systems are designed to meet those needs, together with maximum system flexibility.”
