Single controller governs vision; motion and logic

A tightly integrated controls package on this pressure-sensitive labeling system brings automation plus a 50% increase in throughput.

The CPU used in the PAC that controls the pressure-sensitive labeling system.
The CPU used in the PAC that controls the pressure-sensitive labeling system.

In custom-building a pressure-sensitive top-seal labeling system for canisters of powdered beverage mix, Innoventor Solutions came up with a way to use a single programmable Automation Controller (PAC) to tightly integrate motion, vision, and logic. The PAC is National Instruments’ PXI platform, an eight-slot chassis that includes National Instruments’ 8175 CPU.

This controls solution combines the functionality of a PC and the reliability of a PLC, says Sam Hammond, Innoventor chief engineer. And because the PAC is run by National Instrument’s LabView software, a single programming language is used for motion, vision, and logic. That reduces cost and makes fewer programming demands on personnel responsible for keeping the machine running.

The p-s top-seal label at the heart of this application is placed over the top of each canister’s press-fit closure. The label used to be applied manually, but this was too slow and ergonomically undesirable.

Videos from Universal Labeling Systems, Inc.
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Conveying Innovations Report
Editors report on distinguishing characteristics that define each new product and collected video demonstrating the equipment or materials as displayed at the show. This topical report, winnowed from nearly 300 PACK EXPO collective booth visits, represents a categorized, organized account of individual items that were selected based on whether they were deemed to be both new, and truly innovative, based on decades of combined editorial experience in experiencing and evaluating PACK EXPO products.
Take me there
Conveying Innovations Report