Grenzebach’s new robotic palletizer builds mixed-case rows

Utilizing flexible gripper fork technology to manipulate four to six mixed cases simultaneously, and accurately stack them on a pallet, is the Mixed Case Row Palletizing (MXRP) robot-based palletizer from Grenzebach (Booth 7913).

The gripper works with a load station that groups the cases in the proper sequence. It then elevates the products, allowing the forks to gently lift the packages from the bottom, explained Brian Keiger, general industry sales manager.

“The forks can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically, letting the device handle various package types, including open top cases,” he said.

The gripper works with software that builds the pallet load ahead of time. The software knows what SKUs are required, in what order they will be palletized, and their individual weight, height and stacking rules.

Because the forks move independently, the system can build uneven layer profiles. Since it moves entire rows at a time, instead of single cases, the palletizing cell can handle up to 1,400 cases per hour, depending on the order lines and products, Keiger continued.

“This throughput is achieved with only one robot, instead of two robots required by conventional palletizing cells to achieve 1,000 cases per hour rates,” he said.

Modex 2014 is scheduled to be held March 17-20, 2014 in Atlanta’s Georgia World Conference Center. The tradeshow will showcase the latest manufacturing, distribution and supply chain solutions in the material handling and logistics industry. Modern’s complete Modex 2014 coverage.