At a progressive logistics provider, there was a need to automate the palletisation of boxes originating from containers. This case study details the process, challenges and innovative solutions implemented to fulfil this need.
Overview of the process
At the logistics provider, containers can contain up to five different types of boxes. These boxes are manually unloaded on a telescopic conveyor, after which they land on a central supply conveyor that transports them to the palletiser.
A barcode scanner plays a crucial role in this process by scanning the barcodes on the boxes. This enables the system to sort out the boxes by type on individual infeed conveyors to the palletiser. This ensures streamlined and orderly handling of the different types of boxes.
On the infeed conveyors, the boxes are pre-formed per rows. They are then picked up and stacked by a multifunction gripper, each according to their specific stacking pattern. This technology makes it possible to achieve high infeed speeds of boxes.
Our system for palletising boxes
The palletiser in this case study is of the gantry robot type, which gives it a large working range. This allows simultaneous stacking of the five different types of boxes on individual pallets. This significantly increases efficiency and provides a flexible approach, tailored to the specific needs of the logistics provider.
The working range of the gantry robot can be extended even further. There are even cases where simultaneous stacking on 18 different pallets is possible. This offers unprecedented opportunities for scaling up and improving efficiency
Two robots are active in the portal frame. Both robots have access to a central area where empty pallets and intermediate sheets can be picked up. Full pallets are automatically discharged to a central pallet wrapper, and empty pallets are automatically fed to the stacking positions. This continuous process minimises downtime and maximises throughput.
Conclusion
The automation of palletising boxes originating from containers at the logistics provider has led to significant efficiency improvements and economies of scale. By using advanced technologies such as barcode scanning, multifunctional grippers and gantry robots, it is possible to achieve high speeds and effectively address complex logistics challenges. This case study illustrates the successful implementation of an innovative palletising system adapted to the dynamic needs of the logistics sector.