Syntegon is expanding its secondary packaging portfolio with a system for even more flexibility: the new Sigpack TTMD topload cartoner now works with Delta robots.
The Sigpack TTMD combines core components of the TTM platform with one or more seamlessly integrated Delta robot cells - hence the D in the product name. The camera-based vision control system of the robotic solution recognises the products on the conveyor belt.
The Delta robots pick up single or multiple products, which can be fed in random order, and reliably place them in boxes, trays or other containers according to the specifications. For more flexible filling, the new topload cartoner can also pack different products from several upstream processes simultaneously.
The proven toolless format change concept of the TTM platform is also used in the Sigpack TTMD and enables a vertical restart after each format change.
„Since its launch ten years ago, the TTM platform for integrated topload cartoners has proven itself to manufacturers worldwide and has been continuously developed further. The high reliability and flexibility in particular have been very well received by our customers. Thanks to the integrated Delta robots, even more product and pack style variants are now possible.“ Michael Haas, Product manager for secondary packaging at Syntegon
Modular integration of Delta robot cells
The highlight of the Sigpack TTMD is the loading of the cartons by seamlessly integrated Delta robots. Each system can be equipped with one or more Delta robot cells. A camera-based vision system recognises the orientation and position of the individual products on the infeed conveyor. Each Delta robot picks up between 60 and 90 products per minute under certain conditions can be even up to 120 products per minute be processed.
Using the single or multi-pick method, the robot arms pick the products from the belt and place them either horizontally or vertically into the boxes. The process is according to the counterflow principle organised: The cartons travel towards the product. This reduces the reject rate and ensures that each carton is filled correctly. The Delta robots can run along with the infeed conveyor and the carton conveyor so that the products are loaded into the cartons in continuous operation.
At its core, the Sigpack TTMD consists of a TTM1 or TTM2 topload cartoner for forming and closing cartons. The Sigpack TTMD has a maximum output of 150 cartons per minute.
Present products flexibly at the point of sale
Consumers want a wide selection and the range on offer in the retail sector is correspondingly broad. In order to increase the presentation options at the point of sale, the Sigpack TTMD cartoner offers the possibility of Place the products either horizontally or vertically in the box to be inserted. As products from several upstream processes can be fed into the TTMD, it is possible to pack a selection of different products, such as small bags with different snacks, in one carton.
Quality assurance thanks to continuous nesting control
Another core technology of the TTM platform is the Continuous nesting control, which is also used in the Sigpack TTMD. „In the Sigpack TTMD, each carton is placed on a separate carton carrier and kept under active control from forming to loading to the closing unit. This guarantees that the cartons are transported safely through the packaging process,“ says Haas.
Source: Syntegon
