In-line automated PET bottle handling

Citation

(2008), "In-line automated PET bottle handling", Industrial Robot, Vol. 35 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2008.04935baf.004

In-line automated PET bottle handling

In-line automated PET bottle handling

Motion Controls Robotics, a leading provider of fully integrated robotic systems to manufacturing industries, introduces the Robotic Stand Up Bottle Take Away (SUBTA) System. Motion Controls Robotics' Robotic SUBTA is a pre-engineered robotic system designed for PET blow-molded bottle handling. Motion Controls Robotics has the largest installed base of SUBTA automation systems throughout the country, with many satisfied repeat customers. The company has developed SUBTA systems for most major molding machines on the market and sets itself apart by providing excellent service and technical expertise to all of its customers.

The Robotic SUBTA system enables in-line automated PET bottle handling and unloading for coating, leak checking, case packing and bulk palletizing. For larger mold machines, the system uses the FANUC M-6iB or the M-16iB robot. Systems that work with the smaller mold machines use the FANUC LRMate 200iC robot. The SUBTA system grabs and sets the bottles on a conveyor standing up, acting as a takeaway unit.

Motion Controls Robotics' Robotic SUBTA system is easy to use since it is portable and rolls away from the molding machine to allow for mold changes. It can be operated intuitively with easy-to-use pattern teaching. The easy access door to bottle pick area allows for quick and accurate adjustments. The simple tooling provided allows for angled and/or tapered bottles to be used within the system. The system includes an operator pendant for recipe adjustments and error reporting.

The system provides increased throughput due to high reliability and uptime and cycle times faster than most mold machine rates. The Robotic SUBTA also provides labor savings of up to two people per shift and the automated machine helps to reduce labor costs. The Robotic SUBTA system also requires minimum floor space.

The Robotic SUBTA system is also flexible and precise since it handles any mold configuration (single or double row) and provides quick changeover using quick change tooling. This programmable built-in operator pendant has stored recipes and menu selection for patterns and allows for on- the-fly adjustments. The 20-part recipe keeps part data such as part description pick, place locations, and vacuum pattern.

The rugged welded tubular construction is reliable and durable, with low-maintenance state-of-the-art components. The Robotic SUBTA uses straightforward tooling, eliminating the need for multiple hoses that can develop leaks or become damaged. The system has a mean time of five years between failures, making it very reliable.

Robotic SUBTA System Options include single- or double-row models and custom operating envelopes, custom cavity centerlines and custom end-of-arm tools for unique bottles.

For further information please visit the web site: www.motioncontrolsrobotics.com