Processing of different products from several processes
- Integrated Delta robots for more flexibility in product feeding
- Processing of different products from several processes
- Flexible product presentation thanks to flat or on-edge carton loading
- Patented tool-less format changeover for vertical restart
Beringen, Switzerland – Syntegon has expanded its secondary packaging portfolio with a machine for even more flexibility: the TTMD combines core technologies of the TTM platform with one or more seamlessly integrated Delta robot cells – hence the D in the product name. The robotic solution's camera-based vision control system detects products on the infeed belt. The delta robots pick single or multiple products arriving in random order and reliably place them in cartons, trays or other containers according to specifications. To enable additonal packaging flexiblity, the new topload cartoner can also simultaneously pack different products from several infeed processes. The TTMD uses the proven tool-less format changeover concept from the TTM platform, enabling a vertical restart after each format change.
“Since its launch ten years ago, the TTM platform for integrated topload cartoners has proven its worth at manufacturing companies all over the world and has been continuously developed further. Our customers are especially impressed by its high reliability and flexibility. Thanks to the integrated Delta robots, even more product and pack style variations are now possible,” says Michael Haas, product manager for secondary packaging at Syntegon.
Modular integration of Delta robot cells
The highlight of the TTMD is its carton loading by seamlessly integrated Delta robots. Each cartoning machine can be equipped with one or more Delta robot cells. A camera-based vision system detects the position of the individual products on the infeed belt. The pick rate of the delta robots depends much on the product. Typically it’s between 60 and 90 products per minute, and can go up to as many as 120 products per minute.
Following the single- or multi-pick process, the robotic arms pick the products from the belt and place them in the cartons either in a flat or on-edge position. The process is organized according to the counterflow principle: the cartons move in the opposite direction to the product. This reduces the reject rate and makes sure that each carton is filled correctly. The Delta robots can track on the infeed conveyor and the carton transport, which allows the products to be continuously loaded into the cartons.
The core of the TTMD consists of a TTM1 or TTM2 topload cartoner for forming and closing. The TTMD has a maximum output rate of 150 cartons per minute.
Syntegon’s newest cartoner, TTMD, combines core components of the TTM platform with one or more seamlessly integrated Delta robot cells – this allows flexible packaging of different products.
Reproduction for press purposes free of charge with credit “Picture: Syntegon”
Flexible presentation at the point of sale
Consumers ask for a wide selection of products, which is mirrored by a broad retail offering. The TTMD cartoner increases presentation options at the point of sale: it offers the possibility of inserting the products either flat or on-edge into the carton. Since products from several process sources can be fed into the TTMD, a selection of different products, such as small bags containing different snacks, can be packed into one carton.
The TTMD cartoner offers the possibility of inserting the products either flat or on-edge into the carton – this enhances presentation options at the point of sale.
Reproduction for press purposes free of charge with credit “Picture: Syntegon”
The TTMD cartoner offers the possibility of inserting the products either flat or on-edge into the carton – this enhances presentation options at the point of sale.
Reproduction for press purposes free of charge with credit “Picture: Syntegon”
Quality assurance thanks to end-to-end carton control
Another core technology of the TTM platform is its full carton control, which is also used in the TTMD. “Each carton is placed on a separate carton carrier and is actively controlled: from forming to loading to closing, the cartons are transported safely through the entire packaging process,” Haas says.
Fast format changes and less rejects
The TTMD is easily accessible, easy to clean, and uses Syntegon's patented tool-less format changeover concept. Thanks to pre-set format rods, the settings are clear and sources of error can be minimized. A single operator is able to perform format changes independently and restart the machine within a very short time without having to readjust the format parts. Thanks to simple and fast changeover, the TTMD provides a high overall equipment effectiveness.
“The TTMD expands our portfolio by a cartoning machine that uses the proven core technologies of the TTM platform, while the integrated Delta robots increase the range of products and pack styles. We are pleased that we have already been able to sell the first TTMD and further inquiries are already being processed,” Haas underlines.
About Syntegon Technology
Syntegon Technology is a leading global process and packaging technology provider. Formerly the packaging division of the Bosch Group, the company, headquartered in Waiblingen (Germany), has been offering complete solutions for the pharmaceutical and food industries for over 50 years. More than 6,100 employees at 30 locations in more than 15 countries generated a total revenue of 1.3 billion euros in 2019. The portfolio of intelligent and sustainable technologies includes stand-alone machines, as well as complete systems and services. Fields of application in the pharmaceutical industry are the production, processing, filling, inspection and packaging of liquid and solid pharmaceuticals (e.g. syringes and capsules). In the food industry, the portfolio includes process technology for confectionery as well as packaging solutions for dry foods (e.g. bars, bakery products and coffee), frozen foods and dairy products.
