Standard Case Packer

Benefits and Limitations of Standardization

All case packing solutions utilize time-tested techniques and concepts appropriately selected to fit the particular product application. As such, no case packing solution is completely custom. On the other end, no case packing solution will ever be so standardized that it can be considered an off-the-shelf product. However, the further down we go on the continuum of standardization, the larger the benefits become in terms of cost efficiencies and shorter lead times – both critical considerations for most manufacturers.

On the other hand, standardization also narrows the scope of suitable applications to guarantee reliable operation. To strike a good balance and provide a flexible and reliable solution, the RTL-HZ and RTL-HV focus on applications with lightweight (2lbs and under), flexible products. Whether they are bags of frozen vegetables, flow-wrapped facial wipes or pouches of baby food, a single case packer is able to address both horizontal and vertical pack patterns to address the needs of traditional retail outlets as well as shelf-ready requirements.

Modular Solutions for Horizontal or Horizontal and Vertical Case Packing

Pearson’s standard robotic case packers are designed using a delta-style FANUC DR-3iB/8L robot to either pick and pack products flat into a case, or to form patterns in preparation for vertical loading, which is executed by a FANUC M-710iC/50 articulated arm robot. Resembling a catcher’s mitt, this robot collects a full product pattern before the end-of-arm tool clamps down to secure the load as it is being placed into the case.

The delta-robot module is suited for packing exclusively in a horizontal fashion. If products are ever packaged in upright position for shelf-ready applications, or if a manufacturer requires the flexibility to pack both horizontally and vertically, the delta-style and articulated-arm robot modules are linked together. While the base model is capable of loading 65 products/min (PPM) horizontally and 10 cases/min (CPM) vertically, adding further deltas and/or catchers can increase the speed up to 165 PPM horizontally and 18 CPM vertically.

Vision and line tracking facilitate continuous motion within the delta unit, maximizing performance and reducing mechanical wear, while also enabling products to be presented in random orientation, eliminating the need for extensive product conditioning solutions.

And, Pearson’s HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) is intuitive for new users, providing fault alerts and resolution instructions, changeover maps and step-by-step guides, plus the ability to quickly make recipe adjustments.

Additionally, the RTL-HZ and RTL-HV family comes standard with advanced features including remote access, high-visibility machine status lighting, non-contact interlocks, CAT-3 Safety Circuits, an easily accessible grace port, and auxiliary operator station included in the base price.