The VersaBloc’s concept is simple, innovative, and intuitive enough to be controlled by a single operator. The modular design ensures that VersaBloc is adaptable to all warehouse and packaging line configurations, allowing for optimal use of the available space. The system is also designed with future developments in mind, with built-in flexibility allowing it to accommodate subsequent updates.
Changeover between different formats can be achieved in 4 minutes, and is said to be a time saving of up to 85% over conventional end-of-line systems. Changeover is performed in a repeatable, precise process operated from a single point. The system’s unique user-friendly centralized interface drives this changeover, encompassing wrapper, conveyors and palletizer.
With VersaBloc conveying is minimized, so there is reduced product accumulation, which means a single operator can control the whole packaging area from a central command booth. This compact layout also means fewer and shorter conveyors, cutting the floor space required for end-of-line operations by as much as 25% and helping ensure simplified maintenance and enhanced energy efficiency. Installation time has been cut by over 20%, so VersaBloc can be up and running quickly.
The VersaBloc combines the company’s EvoFlex and VersaFilm. The EvoFlex high-speed palletizer uses a ground level infeed: no pack elevator or platform is required, further enhancing the system’s ergonomic efficiency and energy consumption performance. The ground-level layout also helps eliminate the health and safety risks posed by stairs, gantries, elevated platforms, lift systems etc. EvoFlex’s low-level infeed is capable of running up to 12 layers/min. EvoFlex’s RoboSmart robotic layer prepares layers without shocks – a particularly important feature for high-speed operations and for glass bottles. EvoFlex is capable of palletizing all types of products (PET, glass, cans, etc.) and secondary packaging formats (packs, cases, crates, etc.). The system’s palletizing software allows the easy creation of new formats and pallet patterns. EvoFlex’s brushless technology also reduces energy consumption.
VersaFilm is a multichannel shrink tunnel with 1 to 3 lanes and hot air circulation that can be adjusted to match the needs of each specific product format in terms of height, collation, and number of lanes. The operator can set the blowing height in each air channel, and the inter-channel spacing and individual air flow can also be modified instantly. The new vacuum infeed table features a seamless automatic reel changeover function, based on a patented Dual Injection System (DIS), allowing the machine to change reels without even stopping. VersaFilm also offers flexibility, with a fully-adjustable pin gating system capable of running between 10 and 120 cycles/min.
