Automated buffer line for carton blanks
Task definition
A manufacturer of office supplies needed a conveyor line for carton blanks with an integrated buffer function. The carton stacks come in various formats, weighing 7-10 kg and emerging from a cutting system at a rate of 6 stacks per minute. As this system is located in an adjoining room behind a fire protection wall, the stacks have to be transported through a fire protection flap and then fed to the two downstream stack magazines. These magazines can process 4 stacks per minute, which means that a buffer is required to decouple the processes. The stacks must also be precisely aligned before being transferred to the stack magazines.
In addition, passageways must be integrated into the conveyor line for employees and system operators.
Solution from mk
To meet these requirements, an approx. 10 m long conveyor and storage line was implemented. An RBM-P 2255 roller conveyor with Poly-V drive is used as the main conveyor, which handles both the transport and the required buffer function. Due to the customer’s predetermined installation situation, the sturdy KGF-P 2040.02 curved belt conveyor is also used for directional changes.
An alignment unit ensures exact positioning of the stacks before pusher units transfer these to the stack magazines. The system is also equipped with two pneumatically swivelling passageways with cable duct bridges to enable safe passage for employees and materials.
Benefits
- Reliable decoupling: The conveyor line reliably compensates for the different cycle times and ensures a continuous flow of materials.
- Safe system operation: The ergonomically designed passageways allow optimum accessibility for employees and operators
- Customisation: Customised solution made from standard components, with control integration
Products used
> RBM-P 2255 roller conveyor
> KGF-P 2040.02 curved belt conveyor
> Custom functions (2x pneumatically swivelling passageways, 1x alignment unit, 2x pushers)
