Three ways to more freedom
The varioSTACK, is an open and modular palletising system from IEF-Werner that can be individually adapted to production. In order to be even more flexible, the automation specialist has further optimised the system: Different pallet sizes can now be handled with just one system and a multi-axis robot can be integrated for parts handling. In addition, rollers can be attached to move the palletiser.
Furtwangen, 16.03.2022 – The varioSTACK palletising system can be used, for example, to orientate trays with raw parts that are to be conveyed from the production line to the attached assembly line and to feed them to the assembly line in a predefined position. After assembly, the palletising system picks up the finished parts again from the assembly line. The palletisers of this type have an open and modular design and can thus be easily adapted to any individual production.
In response to customer requests, the automation expert has now further optimised the varioSTACK with belt loader and expanded its flexibility. For example, companies are less and less confronted with high quantities, but with a rapidly changing number of orders. This means that the trend towards being able to handle different pallet sizes with just one system will continue to increase in the future.
Usually, one palletiser is set up for one pallet format at a time. IEF-Werner can design the varioSTACK in such a way that the operator processes, for example, pallets with the format 300 x 400 millimetres for production 1 and then pallets with the dimension 400 x 600 millimetres for production 2 with only one system.
The machine takes the top pallet and places it on the table. Once it has processed the pallet, it is picked up by the second lifting fork and placed on the conveyor belt. If the operator now has to process a different pallet format, he can adjust the distances of the side guides on the infeed belts to the new pallet with a handwheel. For this purpose, IEF-Werner has installed the domiLINE linear adjusters on which the belts run. The user can read off the corresponding positions of the manual adjustment units via a display. Operators are thus able to react faster to production changes with the varioSTACK without having to accept long downtimes. For this purpose, IEF-Werner offers interchangeable sets, for example for the table centring or also the lifting forks, with which the worker can independently adjust the electric pallet grippers to the respective format.
Robot in use
The product handling of the varioSTACKS is equipped with a linear axis system as standard. Now IEF-Werner was asked to integrate a customer's multi-axis robot into the system. This can also swivel and rotate the products if required - an important requirement of the customer. To ensure that the robot works safely and precisely, the automation expert reinforced the frame of the palletiser accordingly.
Freely movable
But flexible also means being able to move the system easily within the hall if necessary. This may be necessary because, for example, production lines change. IEF-Werner optionally equips the varioSTACK with rollers. If the operator activates the lifting mechanism via a button on the control unit, pneumatic cylinders move out of the system to which the rollers are attached. When the palletiser is in its new position, the cylinders retract again at the push of a button and the system stands firmly on the floor - which is a basic prerequisite for precise work.
In order to provide the operator with a compact solution that is little wider than the standard version, IEF-Werner has efficiently integrated the control cabinet for the robot control as well as the lifting mechanism for the rollers into the system.
