Machine vision makes packaging easier

The system integrator combines the visual system of the machine with an automated device that allows his end-users to quickly check the project at high speed.

Packaging product users of BluePrint robotic solutions are using the In-Sight vision system to improve their packaging operations, which can identify and inspect items that come down from the production line.

This In-Sight system takes pictures of an area in the transmitter, converts what it sees into digital information, and then passes this information to an automated machine downstream on the device. The automated machine uses this information to pick up the products on the conveyor belt and place them in the inner package, pick up the inner package in the outer package, or place the outer package in the third layer package. The In-Sight system can also be used as a stand-alone device to perform functions such as assembly, packaging, and labeling.

"One of the reasons we are passionate about the In-Sight 5000 series is that their IP 67-rated specification can be applied to a flushing environment, which is an ideal state for us," a software and control department of BluePrint robotic solutions. Manager Joseph Crompton said, "Our advantage is that we can package our food in very harsh environments such as frozen."

More typically, BluePrint robotic solutions use an In-Sight camera system with a triangular automation machine. Normally, this automation device will come from ABB. "In-Sight can be easily programmed and easily linked to automated equipment, and we use it at speeds typically exceeding 200 rpm," Crompton said.

Crompton said that this system can be used with different control and communication systems. "It can be as simple as RS-232, suitable for Ethernet, DeviceNet or some other procedural rules. The automation machine has a built-in controller inside."

Another addition to Compon's appreciation of the Cognex system is its spreadsheets on the interface. “It is more at the level of PLC Ladder Logic, so it requires very little training and the workshop staff can enter and carry out some project revisions. This is unique to In-Sight. Its function is very good.” He said.

Cost, which is probably the core reason why BluePrint robotic solutions and their customers applaud the visual sensors of the Cognex machines. "Old-fashioned computer-based visualization systems cost $25,000 to $30,000," Crompton estimates. "The price of this In-Sight has dropped to $3000 to $5000." So you can have one on each automation device. And then still can cost much less than those old-fashioned visual systems.

“Each company has economic limits when it comes to evaluating a capital investment,” he continued. “In-Sight enables our prices to be lower than their cost evaluation limits so that customers can be in their options. Get profit." He said: "The typical situation is that an automated machine can replace a person, and sometimes it can replace two, so the reduction of personnel is a key economic reason. If there are multiple production lines, this reason becomes very simple. ”

A “soft” reason for investing in an on-the-fly automated vision system is that he says that for people who currently have existing or potential due to repetitive actions, the harm caused by the repetitive actions and related financial issues will be One reason.

Crompton believes that these advantages are not only beneficial to CPG companies, but also help BluePrint robotic Solutions establish its own business. This is what he wants to see most.

Source: Modern Packaging