Turning robots, conveyors into quick-change artists

Maximizing their potential for output with robotic precision, some machines from AMF Automation Technologies (www.amfautomation.com) are gaining the flexibility to become quick-change artists.

AMF's VersaPak gantry robot series and VersaTrak collation conveyors are incorporating Allen-Bradley's ControlLogix controllers and Ultra Series servo drive from Rockwell Automation (www.rockwellautomation) that reportedly enable end-users to change load parameters in minutes.

The VersaPak gantry robot is rated to 60 picks/min, handling products from 2 to 32 in. long, with a payloads to 100 lb. Its modular design is based on a belt-driven system with fixed motors that can be customized to fit most packaging applications.

The VersaTrak collation conveyor accompanies the loader with dual, servo high-speed indexing and adjustable flight spacing to group packages consistently. The loader uses Ultra Series servo drives that integrate with ControlLogix controllers through a Sercos fiberoptic interface to simplify setup, commissioning and diagnostics. Ultra drives support high-resolution feedback encoders to offer optimal system performance.

VersaPak is also equipped with an Allen-Bradley PanelView Plus 700 operator interface and leverages Rockwell Software RSLogix software for sequential and motion-control programming. The integrated system reportedly enhances packaging performance and reduces engineering time. All system control elements not only reside on the same hardware framework, but also within the same controller.

Notes Timothy Cook, AMF vp of sales and marketing, “Our customers want machines that offer maximum compatibility and flexibility in installation and changeover.”

AMF Automation Technologies, 804/342-9711. www.amfautomation.com

Rockwell Automation, 800/223-5354. www.rockwellautomation.com