Brillopak’s single-pick punnet packing line featuring Omron Quattro Delta robots, controller and software boosts efficiency while cutting downtime and staffing costs
Case loading experts Brillopak are using Omron’s robotics and control technology in a revolutionary single-pick punnet-packing line concept. Custom-designed for a leading UK retailer, the fully automated solution uses Omron’s Quattro Delta robots, NJ production line controller and PackXpert software to load punnets individually. The line increases packing throughput and flexibility while reducing stoppages and human intervention.
Brillopak developed a unique “single-pick” concept that loads each punnet to the correct place in the box with the help of the four arm Delta robot from Omron.Brillopak’s Meteor line incorporates two Omron Quattro Delta robots.
Punnets are a popular choice for packing fresh fruit and meat. In a production line, they are typically packed into boxes or pallets by accumulating and loading complete layers. However, if a punnet is dropped or falls off the line, packing has to be stopped while a line operator fixes the problem. Punnets also have to be laid out in a uniform way, which is a problem for retailers as consumers demand greater variety of product offerings and sizes.
To alleviate these issues, Brillopak developed a unique “single-pick” concept that loads each punnet to the correct place in the box. Placing each punnet individually at the high loading rates of today’s packing lines requires a delta-type robot and Brillopak selected the Omron Quattro Delta robot – the world’s fastest robot with a top speed pick rate of 300 per minute. The Quattro Delta is also unique in having a fourth arm that which allows it to reach 30% further than similar sized robots. The additional axis also allows the robot to tilt the load, making it much more flexible – ideal for placing packs in tight spaces, such as punnet crates.
The line features two Quattro Delta robots, one after the other, under the control of an Omron NJ production-line controller (PLC) and Sysmac software. Access to the control features is via the Omron HMI tailored by Brillopak to show the most common features in an intuitive manner – vital for getting the line up and running again fast. The resulting punnet packing system is fast enough to match today’s production line speeds and support future upgrades to the line.
When new punnet sizes are introduced, the produce provider can easily develop the packing layout pattern offline, greatly reducing downtime for line changeovers.
For maximum packing flexibility, the line also features Omron’s PackXpert software which allows the position and packing order of each punnet to be individually programmed. When new punnet sizes are introduced, the produce provider can easily develop the packing layout pattern offline, simulate the packing process to ensure it is achievable in real world conditions and download it to the robots. This makes changeovers almost a push-button process, greatly reducing downtime for line changeovers.
“Our customer demanded a return on investment in under two years, which means the line needs to operate almost continuously. So, we designed the line to eliminate stoppages due to accumulation problems and minimise the time it takes to get the line running again after changeovers. Using Omron’s technology for the motion, control and safety features of our machines because they can deliver highly integrated products under a single software solution. And that helps us quickly optimise the performance of new systems,” David Jahn, Managing Director of Brillopak.
“Brillopak is a pioneer in the industry, continually pushing the boundaries to meet its customers’ needs – as this example shows. This line installation is a perfect showcase of the capabilities of the new Omron Quattro Delta robot for packing applications, as well as the advantages that can be gained from the seamless integration of Omron products controlled through our dedicated Sysmac Automation Platform,” adds Omron Field Sales Manager Andrew Shelley.
