Control and Software Options
Control and Software Options for Robotic Palletizing Systems
When you purchase FANUC Robots for an automated system, each one comes with a FANUC Standard Operator Panel (SOP) controller. However, to use this controller and robot to palletize products, you need to purchase additional software options. Kaufman Engineered Systems is the go-to choice when it comes to the design, construction, and installation of end-of-line automation solutions. We exclusively use FANUC robots and consider the following software options:
- FANUC's PalletTool software or Kaufman's proprietary KBundle software to program the details of building pallet patterns.
- Dual Check Safety (DCS) software, which consists of two processors that monitor each other to make sure that the robot is performing exactly as programmed. If there are any discrepancies between the two processors, the system shuts down until the issue is corrected. This option creates a smaller footprint for the system.
- The FANUC Ethernet Option is specifically programmed to communicate with Allen-Bradley PLCs. This option allows the PLC and FANUC Controller to communicate.
- Allen-Bradley Programmable Logic Controller (PLCs). (CompactLogix or ControlLogix controllers) to house the KBundle pallet pattern code.
- Human Machine Interface (HMI) - an Allen-Bradley PanelView Plus 7 touchscreen interface will be required.
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In-Depth Look Into How It Works
All FANUC robots come with a Standard Operator Panel (SOP) controller, but to use the robots to palletize, you need to purchase options that enable the robot to palletize loads. The first decision is whether to use FANUC's PalletTool software or Kaufman's proprietary KBundle software to program the patterns the robot will use to build loads.
If FANUC's PalletTool software is used in a Kaufman system, we will also purchase a FANUC Dual Check Safety system consisting of two processors made by two different vendors to compare and check against one another to determine whether the robot is functioning correctly. If there are any discrepancies between the two, the system will automatically shut down until the problem is fixed. This built-in redundancy prevents costly mistakes and injuries and greatly reduces the system's footprint, saving valuable space within the facility. In addition to the DCS, we will purchase FANUC's Ethernet Option, which allows communication between the controllers and the robot. An engineer must program and input pallet patterns for this setup.
How it works with FANUC PalletTool Software vs. Kaufman KBundle Software.
If Kaufman's KBundle software is used, we bypass the FANUC PalletTool software but still purchase the DCS and the Ethernet Option that allows communication between all components. In addition, we bring in either an Allen-Bradley CompactLogix PLC or a ControlLogix PLC to house our proprietary pallet pattern-building software and include an Allen-Bradley PanelView Plus 7 touchscreen interface, also known as a Human Machine Interface (HMI). The advantage of utilizing KBundle is that you do not need an engineer to program the patterns into the system. The user interface and software make it simple and straightforward for a floor operator to input and update patterns as needed.
Benefits of Working with Kaufman Engineered Systems
Our exclusive partnership with FANUC goes beyond providing advanced technology; it’s about ensuring customer satisfaction through dedicated support and continuous innovation. We invest in research and design, developing robust solutions for various industries, such as food and beverage, wine and spirits, paper products, health and beauty, personal care, building products, and pharmaceuticals.
Ready to transform your operations with state-of-the-art robotic palletizing systems? Contact Kaufman Engineered Systems today to discuss your needs, request a quote, or learn more about how our partnership with FANUC America can benefit your business. Call 419-878-9727 or use the links below to get in touch!