ESS Technologies, Inc. and Antares Vision have collaborated to develop a compact and cost-effective serialized case packing solution that integrates state-of-the art robotic case packing and serialization system technologies. The CEL5 can be configured as a top load, side-load, or bottom-load case packer, allowing greater flexibility in designing the packaging line that integrates easily with the Antares Vision track-and-trace equipment.
The Model CEL5 top-loading case packer that ESS and Antares Vision will demonstrate at PACK EXPO International uses a FANUC M-20iA robot with custom, ESS-designed end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) to erect and load the RSC case.
An Antares Vision 360-degree camera scans unique product codes on each bottle before they enter the case packer infeed. The product codes are stored in a serialization system PC. At the case packer infeed, the CEL5’s servo collation system creates the desired case pack pattern.The multi-axis robot picks an RSC case from the case magazine, squares the sides, folds the bottom flaps, and places the case on the vacuum loading plate. The same robot then picks the collated pack pattern of scanned bottles, holds the load over a serialization camera to record the case contents, and loads the bottles into the case. The case is then sealed on the top and bottom with standard 2-in. tape.
An Antares Vision serialization labeler prints and applies a case label with a barcode that contains the serialization data about the case contents. The CEL5 Robotic Case Packer erects, loads, and closes 5 to 6 cases/min. The custom-designed EOAT can be configured to handle a variety of products, including bottles with or without topserts, cartons, and bundles.
The ESS Model CEL5 with integrated Antares Vision serialization system will be in operation in Antares Vision booth S-3760 at PACK EXPO International, Oct. 14-17, 2018, at McCormick Place in Chicago. Use Comp Code 34N82 to receive free admission to Healthcare Packaging EXPO and PACK EXPO International exhibit halls.
