Schmalz’s SPZ-M-C palletizer gets better gripper control with new software package

High-performance palletizer SPZ-M-C with new software package to ensure reliable control of the gripper.
Photo by Schmalz GmbH J. Förder- und Handhabungstechnik

High-performance vacuum gripping systems allow for quick palletizing and de-palletizing of various goods in warehouses and in intra-logistics processes, which helps to increase productivity. Schmalz has developed a software package for the SPZ-M-C high-performance palletizer to ensure reliable control of the gripper. The program contains an intuitive user interface that allows users to execute automated handling of product layers more easily and to save gripping procedures.

Schmalz offers the SPZ layer gripping system as a modular system in three basic configurations, each with different gripping technology: SPZ, SPZ-M and SPZ-C. In comparison to the SPZ, SPZ-M offers an additional mechanical gripper support. The SPZ-M-C version includes both the mechanical gripper support and a vacuum chamber that generates improved holding force. Even product layers that are practically impossible to pick up can be reliably handled with this system.

The SPZ-M-C layer gripping system also includes offset recognition: The gripper picks up layers that are not centered and corrects the positioning error when depositing them on the target pallet. It also reliably detects and separates intermediate layers. The SPZ-M-C is designed for workpiece heights of between 50 and 500 millimeters; a height adjustment feature allows the system to adapt to differing dimensions. It reliably executes palletizing processes with a maximum layer weight of up to 250 kilograms. On request, the gripping system can also be supplied for use in temperatures as low as negative 30 degrees Celsius for applications in the freezer industry sector.

To make handling processes even more efficient in the future, Schmalz will begin equipping its systems with appropriate software and developing integrated solutions for mechanics, control and operation. The software allows the system to learn new products and process sequences, even for special workpieces. The SPZ-M-C control software features a touchscreen for extremely intuitive operation and clearly structured and easy-to-use menu navigation. Users can access pre-programmed basic values for all common product layer configurations and use these for visualization. Various modules are also available, including setup, teach and automatic modes as well as diagnostics functions.

The software package, which will be available starting in autumn 2016, simplifies the user’s everyday tasks: The user can save new gripping procedures for different workpieces and then open these from a library at a later time. Importing workpiece data is also very quick and easy. New handling tasks are learned based on stored process values. The gripper can be easily parameterized and reliably controlled using modern, user-friendly software.

For more information, please visit http://www.schmalz.de.

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