Robotic Palletizer Can Replace Manual Systems

Image courtesy ESS Technologies

The Dual Cell-E Robotic Palletizer from ESS Technologies integrates a FANUC robot with custom-designed end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) to create a cost-effective, efficient, end-of-line solution for palletizing in a small footprint. The standard Dual Cell-E integrates a FANUC M-710iC/50H 5-axis robot, which offers a payload capacity of up to 50 kg (110.2 lbs). Other robot models with higher payloads can also be designed into the system. The ergonomic, compact pallet cell fits into existing packaging lines to replace manual palletizing processes, reducing the potential for worker injury. 

Floor-mounted pallet guides with pallet presence sensors offer a cost-effective alternative to heavier integral pallet bases. The Dual Cell-E comes complete with the FANUC robot, robot controller with Teach Pendant, EOAT, zero-back pressure case infeed conveyor, and interlocked wire mesh PLe-rated safety guarding. The EOAT may be ordered to pick one, two, or three cases with each cycle, and FANUC’s PalletTool Turbo software comes preinstalled on the robot to simplify operation. Size changeover typically occurs in 10 minutes or less. 

The dual cell, one-in, two-out configuration reduces the need to stop the palletizer cell. The robot automatically begins palletizing the second pallet position after the first pallet load is complete. Optional light curtains with independent zone controls allow the operator to deactivate the safety sensors and remove the loaded pallet without stopping the robot. ESS can also integrate the robotic pallet cell with off-the-shelf serialization systems from industry OEMs.

Source: ESS Technologies