Jan 31 2011
Intelligrated, located in Mason, Ohio, has launched the Alvey PLC-controlled robotic palletizer. It shares a common programmable logic controller (PLC) platform with the earlier offering from the company.
It offers an option to the robot controller, enhancing line integration, time taken to respond to commands and overall productivity. It minimizes time required to train both operators and maintenance personnel.
According to Earl Wohlrab, manager of robotic integration, controlling all the robotic devices with a single platform makes line integration a simple task. In the case of a packing robot linked to a sealer, in turn joined to a robotic palletizer, the power design would feature an operating language differing from PLCs. So the controls would need an interface to help them communicate with the PLC that monitors the line operation. This constricts the amount of information being transmitted. Therefore, using a PLC to control the robot would eliminate the need for an interface or external control devices.
The solution ensures that palletizing products can maintain the control platform, facilitate complicated control, and minimize delays in changing over. It offers better integration and performance of the robotic device. It also facilitates programming of robots. The palletizer can be operated with a touch screen interface. The entire system reduces floor space, and operating and maintenance cost
Source: http://www.intelligrated.com