Cobot palletizers benefit manufacturers by increasing efficiency, safety, and consistency in the repetitive and strenuous manufacturing process of stacking product for shipment. Unlike traditional industrial equipment, cobot palletizers offer greater flexibility, simplified integration, and increased operator control. ONExia specializes in custom robotic solutions, designing, building, and programming application-specific systems for manufacturing and end-of-line.
Cobot Palletizer for Blind and Visually Impaired Operators
Recently, a client partnering with National Industries for the Blind (NIB) required a specialized palletizer with additional accessibility features. In response, ONExia developed a custom PalletizUR cobot palletizer to meet the needs of a manufacturing facility primarily employing blind and visually impaired operators. This cobot palletizing system utilizes the UR20 collaborative robot from Universal Robots. It incorporates tactile controls, includes auditory feedback, and provides all the benefits of a PalletizUR. As an OEM that specializes in custom solutions, ONExia’s solution fulfills the client’s needs and offers high-quality custom features that standard palletizing systems cannot provide.
Custom Cobot Palletizers in Manufacturing
The PalletizUR is a turnkey palletizing solution using cobots from Universal Robots. This flexible system handles a wide range of pallet configurations and high payloads. Improving on standard cobot palletizing, ONExia builds application-specific integrations and software for enhanced performance and longevity. In this use-case, ONExia customized the PalletizUR with accessibility features and lifts for high pallet stacking. These customizations allow blind and visually impaired workers to easily operate the equipment, without compromising on performance or safety.
1. Tactile Interface with Audio Feedback for Accessibility
Central to this solution is an innovative tactile control panel. Instead of relying solely on a drag-and-drop touchscreen, ONExia designed an additional control panel using physical buttons with bright, high-contrast colors and braille labels. Buttons on the control panel change the number of boxes, signal when slip sheets are placed, and select which side to palletized. Operators also receive real-time audio cues announcing button selections and system actions. The palletizer intuitively creates pallets based on the number of boxes needed, enhancing system control for visually impaired operators.
2. High-Performance Collaborative Robot
The UR20 collaborative robot features extended reach, high payload capacity, and precise motion control. With a pneumatic lifter this system palletizes loads up to 40 pounds and stacks pallets over 100 inches high. The PalletizUR maintains consistent, accurate stacking at a steady rate and can pick multiple lightweight cases for faster palletizing. By automating this physically demanding task, manufacturers benefit from significantly reduced operator fatigue and injury risk from repetitive bending, twisting, and climbing, and heavy lifting.
3. Collaborative Rating and Safety Integrations
Every cobot palletizer from ONExia meets industry safety standards and is tested to comply with third-party safety ratings. The PalletizUR operates without hard guarding and includes four safety scanners monitoring collision zones, slowing or stopping when proximity sensors are tripped. Additionally, this application includes audible cues through a speaker alerting blind and visually impaired workers to atypical movements. Announcing changes to the palletizer’s movements provides an additional level of safety for all operators and workers in the area.
Finding the Right Palletizing Partner Matters
Choosing the right partner for your end-of-line automation is key to long-term success. The ONExia Robotics team specializes in cobot palletizing systems and works directly with each client to design the best solution.
- Expert Consultation: With decades of industry experience, we analyze and understand your process to recommend solutions that fit your needs.
- Customizable Options: Every production line is different, so we engineer systems that integrate with your existing facility and workflow.
- After-Sales Support: From hands-on training to long-term service, we prioritize keeping your system running smoothly for the long term.
How Cobot Palletizers Benefit Manufacturers
ONExia designs all automation system specific to the application. Our custom integration capabilities ensure our cobot palletizer systems are optimized for specialized operations. Moreover, by building turn-key solutions, we fulfill client’s needs providing high-quality custom features that standard palletizing systems cannot provide.
- Custom-built for your workflow
- Addresses your specific needs
- Maximize productivity and minimize downtime
- Scalable automation for future flexibility
- Lifetime support and service
Palletizing Automation for Every Application
The PalletizUR from ONExia demonstrates how cobot palletizers benefit manufacturers with technology that improves manufacturing environments. While designed to meet the needs of visually impaired operators, this system also models the advantages of working with a custom integrator for solutions that go beyond standard palletizing products. Ultimately, ONExia’s expertise in custom machines and robotics ensures that you receive a tailored solution that meets your specific needs.
To learn more about how ONExia can help you transform your business with a PalletizUR cobot palletizer, don’t hesitate to Contact Us today.