Archive Press Release
(Products mentioned in this Archive Press Release may or may not be available from the manufacturer.)
Rockwell Automation
Release date: January 12, 2006
OEM Improves Versatility of Case and Basket Loader with Integrated Motion Control Technology from Rockwell Automation
Installation of new control system helps customers easily integrate robotic loader into existing production lines and reduce changeover time
MILWAUKEE, Jan. 12, 2006 - In addition to delivering high-speed packaging solutions with robotic precision, the VersaPak Gantry Robot series and VersaTrak Collation Conveyors from AMF Automation Technologies provide a high level of flexibility for quick changeovers. Incorporating Allen-Bradley ControlLogix controllers and Ultra Series servo drives, the VersaPak loader and VersaTrak Collation Conveyor make it possible for end users to change load parameters in minutes.
"Our customers want machines that offer maximum compatibility and flexibility in installation and changeover," said Timothy Cook, vice president, sales and marketing, AMF Automation Technologies. "The new Allen-Bradley control platform gives customers the competitive advantage of being able to minimize troubleshooting and downtime."
The VersaPak Gantry Robot operates at 60 picks per minute and can accommodate products from two to 32-inches long and with payloads up to 100 pounds. The modular design is based on a belt-driven gantry robotic system with fixed motors that can be customized to fit most packaging applications, regardless of layout or product load. The VersaTrak Collation Conveyor accompanies the VersaPak loader with dual servo high-speed indexing and adjustable flight spacing to consistently group packages.
The loader uses Allen-Bradley Ultra Series servo drives that integrate seamlessly with ControlLogix controllers through a SERCOS fiber optic interface, simplifying setup, commissioning and diagnostics. The Ultra drives support high resolution feedback encoders, offering optimum system performance.
The VersaPak is equipped with an Allen-Bradley PanelView Plus 700 operator interface and leverages Rockwell Software RSLogix 5000 software for both sequential and motion control programming. With controllers, software and network devices from Rockwell Automation, the VersaPak and VersaTrak are a fully integrated system that can be added to any control platform with minimal impact on engineering and programming resources. The integrated control platform enhances packaging performance and reduces engineering time because all system control elements not only reside on the same hardware framework, but also within the same controller.
"The open programming and networking capabilities help us meet our customers' needs for versatile packaging systems that are cost-efficient and easy on engineering resources," said Cook. "Standardized programming and adaptable networking capabilities also complement the loader's small size and engineering versatility." In addition to a painted finish, the system is available in stainless steel to meet hygienic design standards in food, beverage, pharmaceutical and other government-regulated industries.
Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), is a leading global provider of automation, power, control, and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., U.S.A., the company employs about 21,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.
For more information on the Rockwell Automation products mentioned in this release, please contact the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800-223-5354, ext. 1888.
All reader inquiries should be directed to the Rockwell Automation Response Center, 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800-223-5354, ext 1888.
Allen-Bradley, ControlLogix, PanelView, Rockwell Software, RSLogix and Ultra are trademarks of Rockwell Automation Inc.
SERCOS interface is a trademark of the Interests Group SERCOS interface e.V.
Company Information: Name: Rockwell Automation Address: 1201 S. 2nd St. City: Milwaukee State: WI ZIP: 53204 Country: USA Phone: 414-382-2000 FAX: 414-382-4444 http://www.rockwellautomation.com/
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