TM Robotics taking the biscuit

TM Robotics, the European partner of Toshiba Machine, and Evershed Robotics have automated the collating of biscuits, in readiness for packing, at one of the UK's leading biscuit producers. This function was previously performed manually but proved to be an ideal application for Toshiba Machine's industrial SCARA robot, the SR-HSP.

The automation has improved throughput, reliability and quality, and with its inherent flexibility is easily reprogrammed to cope with changes in the type of biscuit handled.

The system utilizes the conveyor synchronization function of the Toshiba Machine SR-HSP SR7000 controller, which is capable of tracking the biscuits on a moving conveyor. Conveyor synchronisation calculates the speed of the conveyor and the position of a biscuit, and then feeds the positional data to the robot. This enables the arm of the robot to pick up a biscuit from the moving conveyor and then place it in position, ready for packing. The system is extremely accurate, offering repeatability to within ±0.02mm.

Utilising state-of-the-art technology, the controller is capable of simultaneously processing input and output signals during robot motion. As a result, no time is wasted waiting for signal processing to be completed. This gives a smooth, fast motion which is vital for handling easily damaged foodstuffs. The speed of handling is further enhanced by the use of absolute encoder feedback, rather than incremental signals, obviating the need to implement a zero return on start up following a shut down.

The compact SR-HSP and SR7000 controller are easily integrated with other industrial automation equipment, which is vital when building robotics into an existing set up. A high degree of flexibility enables further systems to be utilized in other areas of the factory, for instance in packaging or on other packing lines.