TM Robotics (Europe) has introduced a robotic system for automating the opening and cutting of cases, boxes and cartons. Called ABOT (Automated Box Opening Technology), the system was developed and patented in the US by Cornerstone Automation Systems Inc. TM Robotics believes that operations shifting 2,500 boxes a day will receive payback on the system in just six months.
The ABOT uses a vision system to measure a box moving down a built-in conveyor. It then tailors the way the box is cut to a pre-programmed pattern. Perfect for use in the engineering and logistics industries, ABOT is capable of dealing with up to twelve hundred cases per hour.
ABOT can accept material to be opened in any combination or order without the need to run the same size boxes, batches or groups together. The ABOT finds applications in re-packaging operations, returns processing, stocking, distribution and replenishing picking shelves in order fulfilment operations.
"We envisage the ABOT providing enormous benefits to engineering, handling and logistics companies by reducing worker injuries and damage to products," explained Nigel Smith, managing director of TM Robotics. "The machine can even be used for automating the production of point of display material as well as simply opening stock items," he continued.
Two different versions of the machine, ABOT ONE and ABOT DUO, use single pass through or double pass through conveyors for opening 600 or 1200 items per hour respectively. The latter option is based on a dual lane configuration to provide optimum output while the former caters for lower capacity operations on a more affordable budget.
The maximum case size is 760mm in length by 600mm wide and 500mm high. The minimum case size is 100x75x50mm in the same dimensions. Maximum cut depth is 7mm while minimum is 0.0mm, representing a perforation. Options include an automated blade changer, a blade integrity monitor, double glass doors, glass panels, automated top removal, display and dispensing case cut patterns as well as inner packaging opening. Optional functions for the ABOT include case dimensioners, check weighers, label readers and bar code scanners, providing several verification options for products received.