Pack Expo Las Vegas 2023 Highlights Automation and Material Handling Technology

The most comprehensive packaging and processing event in North America this year, Pack Expo Las Vegas 2023 (Sept. 11–13; Las Vegas Convention Center), will be the largest in its history. Produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, Pack Expo Las Vegas will feature more than 2,000 exhibitors showcasing the newest innovations for more than 40 vertical markets, spanning nearly 1 million square feet of exhibit space.

“We will surpass previous Pack Expo Las Vegas shows this year with more exhibitors and features offered to attendees than ever before. This reflects the growth in our industry as well as the need for our attendees to find new solutions, expand their knowledge, and build their network,” says Jim Pittas, president, and CEO, PMMI. “A thriving industry allows for great opportunities as well as challenges—and we’ll be addressing critical issues such as sustainability, workforce, and automation to name a few.”

KUKA Robotics (Booth #C–3236)

KUKA Robotics will showcase various innovative automation solutions for specific handling applications during Pack Expo 2023.

For the handling of primary foods, KUKA, together with integrator Torfresma, will demonstrate the KR3 Delta HM robot in a solution for the primary foods industry. The demonstration exemplifies how KUKA automation provides increased production control while helping food-processing companies reduce operating costs, avoid failures, and maintain high quality standards.

The KR 3 DELTA hygienic robot provides outstanding performance and value for pick-and-place applications for the food, packaging, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries. The KR 3 DELTA combines precise grip, corrosion resistance and minimal maintenance requirements to excel in sensitive high-speed production applications. This ceiling-mounted robot offers a reach of 1200 mm, a maximum payload capacity of 3 kg and cycle times as low as 0.5 seconds.

The robot is made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel that protects against dust and moisture. The design accepts alkaline or acidic high-pressure cleaning and disinfection up to 100 kPa for simplified upkeep and shorter downtimes. Food-sector certified for material safety, the entire robot carries IP 67 high-protection certification, with IP 69K for axis 4 that is also ISO 3 rated for cleanroom applications.

To boost the efficiency of product bag handling, KUKA will showcase a cell from Elevation Packaging featuring a KR IONTEC robot. Whether on the floor, on the wall or inclined, the KR IONTEC combines compact design with the largest working envelope in its class for optimal use of space. Equipped with a waterproof and dustproof in-line wrist and protected motors, the robot is suitable for almost every area of application.

For those palletizing lines unsuitable for extensive centralized automation, the CUBE cell will show attendees a solution for easy, end-of-line robotic palletizing. The cell, from KUKA partner FOCUS Integration, features a KR IONTEC palletizing robot and is designed for lines where conveyance is too costly or production rates are too low for justifying the investment of a centralized palletizing system. 

With a compact and portable 48”x 96” footprint, the ready-to-run CUBE ships on a single platform and installs within hours.  The cell’s software allows for fast and easy programming of new case sizes along with pallet patterns. Users simply enter case data and select the pallet pattern from intuitive on-screen prompts.

Addressing the needs for easy and efficient mobile automation, KUKA Robotics will also spotlight its recently launched KMP 600-S diffDrive mobile platform automated guided vehicle (AGV) system. The AGV will work with two KR IONTEC robots in a cell developed by Mujin for efficiently palletizing and depalletizing consumer goods. To coordinate robot movement, the cell incorporates a Mujin controller and camera system.

The KUKA KMP 600-S diffDrive mobile platform is fast, boasting an operating speed of up to two meters per second, and uses laser scanners and 3D object detection to meet the highest safety requirements, taking industrial intralogistics to new levels. Its payload capacity is up to 600 kg, and the vehicle requires no safety fencing to provide maximum freedom of movement for employees, while laser scanners mounted at the front and rear ensure safe operation at high speeds in all directions of travel when cycle times require it.

For the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, KUKA will demonstrate the capability of its AGILUS, DELTA HM and SCARA robots in a pick and place/bin picking cell.  Designed to simulate a real production environment, the cell includes KUKA’s KR 3 DELTA Hygienic robot, KR 6 SCARA and KR 6 AGILUS robots.

The ultra-compact KR 6 SCARA with a 6-kg payload positions at a repeatability of +/- .02 mm. It offers reach/radius options of 500 and 700 mm and a Z-axis stroke of 2 mm. The KR 6 SCARA is strong, fast, highly efficient and delivers maximum economy. Both robots are paired with KUKA.VisionTech that provides powerful tools for 2D object recognition, quality control as well as code and optical character recognition.

KUKA’s KR 6 AGILUS in the FMCG cell ensures extreme versatility and agility. Adapting to any installation position, the six-axis KR 6 AGILUS is designed for particularly high working speeds, boasts a 10-kg payload, and comes in a wide range of variants for challenging applications such as clean rooms and potentially explosive environments.

kuka.com

Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. (Booth #N–10011)

Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. will be demonstrating automation solutions for consumer-packaged goods and life sciences customers and OEMs. In addition to the Factory Automation Wall, showcasing Mitsubishi Electric's complete line of factory automation products, a new 3D Bin Picking robot demo will be presented. Collision avoidance and dynamic path planning from Realtime Robotics with the newly added 3D Vision from SICK, Inc., will show collision management in a 3-robot work cell in this demo.

On Day 2, September 12th at 4 PM in the Central Hall on Stage 3 – (C-2508), Mitsubishi Electric product marketing manager, mechatronics, Patrick Varley, will be presenting on "The Next Evolution of 3D Bin Picking: Multiple Collision-Free Robots." Alongside Matt Somerville from Realtime Robotics and Nick Longworth from SICK, Varley will discuss how the combination of 3D vision for robotic guidance, dynamic path planning, and collision avoidance can work together to increase throughput and reduce the footprint needed to deploy Mitsubishi Electric robots.

“While I always look forward to presenting our robots to existing and potential customers at trade shows, I'm especially excited about Pack Expo. The 3D bin picking demo debuting at the show is something that we can't wait to show to the attendees: three industry leaders, 3D bin picking and three robots,” said Patrick Varley, product marketing manager, mechatronics, at Mitsubishi Electric Automation. 

“It's an exciting time for the robotics industry. The advances in motion control, path planning, and robot vision promise to greatly improve the speed and throughput of logistics operations,” said Matt Somerville, director of sales, North America, at Realtime Robotics. “I'm excited for attendees to see firsthand what the combination of Mitsubishi, SICK, and Realtime technology can do.”

us.mitsubishielectric.com

Emerson Booth #SL–6107

Emerson will exhibit its Floor to Cloud packaging solutions at Pack Expo.

As the future of automation, Floor to Cloud solutions empower smarter packaging lines and more efficient processes that make it possible for manufacturers to continuously improve plant productivity, sustainability, and safety. 

Multimedia Monitoring Solution

 

Aventics Series AF2 Flow Sensor

Aventics Series AF2 Flow Sensors have helped plants around the world successfully reduce compressed air consumption and improve energy efficiency. By monitoring air consumption in pneumatic systems, AF2 sensors enable rapid intervention if leaks occur, helping optimize energy consumption, reach net-zero targets, prevent machine downtime, and reduce costs. Emerson now offers a high-flow model of this advanced sensor that propels compressed air monitoring beyond individual machines to benefit larger air lines and systems. This expanded capability allows users to easily optimize energy consumption across an entire packaging facility and improve overall plant sustainability. emerson.com/en-us/catalog/aventics-af2 

Multimedia Monitoring Solution

The multimedia monitoring solutions, including CoreTigo wireless communication, analyze water, compressed air, gases, electricity, steam (WAGES) and other utilities. The Edge Analytics Dashboard measures efficiency optimizes productivity and avoids or reduces downtime. Emerson experts will demonstrate the multimedia monitoring cabinet solution and the insights it offers, which will support meeting sustainability goals. emerson.com/Sustainable-Automation

Nord Drivesystems  (Booth #7853)

IE5+ Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors offer one on the highest efficiencies currently available and feature a hygienic, smooth surface design (TENV) as well as a ventilated version for maximum heat dissipation (TEFC). They enable reliable movement of even the heaviest loads found in end-of-the-line packaging systems thanks to their constant torque and high overload capacity. With their compact, modular design, maintenance and replacements are made quick and easy, significantly reducing system downtime.

Nord’s DuoDrive Integrated Gear Unit and Motor is a modern design concept that integrates a single-stage helical gear unit with an ultra-high efficiency IE5+ motor in one compact housing. This combination results in high system efficiency of up to 92 percent - enabling a significant reduction in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to other drive systems. Thanks to its simple Plug-&-Play commissioning, high power density, and quiet operation, DuoDrive is well-suited for packaging systems. The drive is also available for use in hygienic, washdown applications due to its smooth surface design as well as optional IP69K protection and NORD’s state-of-the-art nsd tupH Sealed Surface Conversion System.

Nordac On/On+ Variable Frequency Drives were developed for the special requirements of horizontal conveyor technology. The Nordac On is compatible with IE3 motors while the Nordac On+ is made for use with IE5+ synchronous motors. These VFDs feature an integrated industrial Ethernet interface configurable for each parameter, full Plug-&-Play capabilities for quick installation and maintenance, and wall-mount or motor-mounted options. Their integrated PLC functionality, Posicon positioning, and encoder interface offer intelligent, precise control of packaging systems.

Nordac Pro SK 500P Variable Frequency Drives are a control cabinet solution with scalable functionality for easy adaptation to a wide range of applications. They include an integrated multi-protocol Ethernet interface for efficient connection to Ethernet-based control systems, high precision regulation and large overload capabilities for synchronous and asynchronous motors, functional safety options including STO and SS1. Along with a Bluetooth interface and a USB interface for voltage-free parameterization options, an SD memory card is also available to store parameters, firmware, and operating data for easy transfer of information in IIoT environments. Nordac Pro SK 500P VFDs are available in 5 frame sizes for ultimate flexibility.

LogiDrive is a complete drive solution that reduces planning and commissioning efforts through a cost effective, standardized design. The modular system includes either a 2-stage helical bevel gear unit or DuoDrive integrated gear motor unit, an IE3/IE4/IE5+ high-efficiency electric motor, a decentralized variable frequency drive, incremental encoder, additional connectors, and cables. As a complete package, LogiDrive provides flexibility, increased energy efficiencies maintained even at partial load and low speeds, and reduced system variants for an improved Return on Investment (ROI).

Condition Monitoring continuously or periodically records operating and status data to optimize the operational safety and efficiency of drive systems. Important information can then be derived from analysis of the recorded data to proactively maintain systems through status-based maintenance rather than time-based maintenance. This solution also helps avoid unplanned downtimes, reduce service and material costs, extend the service life of components, and increase the efficiency of the entire plant.

For primary packaging systems that require a hygienic solution, Nord offers their innovative nsd tupH Sealed Surface Conversion System. This treatment not only provides a smooth, sealed surface that is easy to clean, but also offers a high level of resistance to corrosion, acids, alkalis, chemical cleaning agents, and potential contamination. Unlike paint that is superficially applied to drives and is prone to flaking or blistering in heavy washdown environments, nsd tupH permanently penetrates aluminum alloy housings to chemically alter the metal into a surface that is 7 times stronger that the original. In addition to the surface treatment, Nord units featuring nsd tupH also include stainless steel shafts, hardware, and special sealing rings to further protect against unwanted moisture and debris.

nord.com

Redex USA (Booth #SL-6758)

When you need to lift, push, or support a heavy load in tight industrial spaces, it can be hard to find the right solution. Even if you find a jack that meets some of your requirements, the manufacturer may not offer the options you need to comprise a complete unit at an acceptable cost. A rack and pinion jack can provide the right combination of load handling, torque, and versatility in a compact unit. That’s why it pays to work with a rack and pinion jack manufacturer that is known for its quality gearing components and technical expertise.

Redex Rack Jack products transform rotary motion to linear motion and vice versa while combining heavy-duty performance with simplicity and value. 

The assembly consists of a hollow-bore pinion and one or two racks – depending on the application – which create a force-locked connection inside a robust, square housing. As the pinion is driven by the motor, the racks move linearly in opposite directions. Unlike an electronic approach that typically involves two motors that require programming and significant time and effort, Redex Rack Jacks need just a single motor to deliver mechanically synchronized linear motion as part of a central, easy-to-implement system.

redexusa.com/

Regal Rexnord (Booth #SL-5906)

Regal Rexnord offers a full suite of both mounted and unmounted bearings suitable for any application. Our bearing assortment contains a variety of rolling elements, engineered to handle a range of low to high speeds, light to heavy loads, and a full spectrum of environments. For packaging, processing and material handling applications, we offer a vast array of products for both upstream and downstream machinery. Regal Rexnord designs & manufactures some of the industry’s preferred bearing brands - Sealmaster, Rex, Link-Belt, Duralon, McGill, and Rollway - found across a myriad of machines and environments.

There are dozens of different applications for chain products in the processing, packaging and material handling processes and Regal Rexnord has you covered with a wide range of solutions to maximize system performance. From packagers to palletizers to lift trucks, we offer a roller, engineered or leaf chain solution to keep your facility running at its peak. Rex and Link-Belt chains are designed and manufactured to suit the most demanding conditions across a variety of applications & uses. 

Grove Gear and Hub City gear drives have delivered proven quality, reliability and performance for over 200 years combined. That kind of staying power is driven by state-of-the-art engineering and design, innovative products, an extensive product portfolio and cost-effectiveness. We offer both standard and custom solutions suitable to fit every power transmission need.

regalrexnord.com