Compact Robotic Systems Integrate with Packaging Systems

TaskMate Robotic Systems from ESS Technologies now integrate Fanuc America’s new line of selective compliance assembly robot arm (SCARA) robots to create an ultra-compact robotic cell that integrates with cartoners, case packers, and monoblock filler/cappers for collation and machine loading and unloading. The small size of the Fanuc robots, combined with their high flexibility, allow ESS to place the robot within the machine frame, unlike the larger robots that require a separate robotic cell with additional safety guarding. This set-up reduces the system footprint and cost and minimizes the required guarding. ESS is a Fanuc authorized system integrator and has been named a strategic partner for pharmaceutical packaging.

Manufacturers install the systems to automate repetitive or dangerous packaging processes, increase productivity, and reduce worker injuries. Robotic systems also offer a higher rate of production, allowing manufacturers to maximize their equipment throughput by maintaining their equipment’s infeed speeds. As an added advantage, the robotic cell is easy to retrofit to handle new products or processes, usually requiring new tooling and programming for the existing robot. The systems can be integrated with new machines or retrofitted with existing packaging machines.

The Fanuc SR Series of SCARA robots includes the Model SR-3iA, which handles up to 3 kg (6.6 lbs) using four axes and provides a reach of 400 mm (15.75 in.). The Model SR-6iA can handle up to 6 kg (13.2 lbs) using four axes with a reach of 650 mm (25.59 in.). ESS Technologies designs custom end-of-arm tooling for each application, enabling the systems to handle a variety of shapes. This flexibility allows the robotic cell to be used in a wide range of applications for kit packing, collation, loading, unloading, material handling, and assembly.

Source: ESS Technologies