Custom Designed Robotic Cell Tank Palletizing

greencrest on March 27, 2022

A propane tank manufacturing client approached MJ Engineering to design and install a custom robot cell for the purpose of automatically palletizing 20 and 30 lb tanks. The task had been done in the past by operators manually stacking the tanks on a motorized section of lift conveyor. The desire was to have a fully automatic cell that would build the pallet based on a customer specification and then apply the wrap to create a pallet that was ready to ship.

The cell interfaces to a pallet dispensing system and pallet wrapping station to complete the fully automated tank palletizing process.

The robot EOAT (End Of Arm Tool) is designed to handle the tanks, tier sheets and pallets. The pallet building process starts with the robot picking and placing a pallet in the stacking position. The robot then picks tanks and tier sheets as needed to build subsequent layers.

Additional support was provided to the client for controls and programming of the conveyor and pallet dispenser.

Project Description

This custom designed robotic cell is used for picking and palletizing propane tanks, both 20 and 30 pound sizes.

Capabilities Applied/Processes

Cell Design

  • Conception of cell that meets unique production requirementsand existing floor plan configuration.
  • Create SolidWorks© 3D models of cell concept/li>

Tooling Design

  • End Of Arm Tooling (EOAT) Design/li>

Installation
Start-Up
Operator and Maintenance Training

Features/Benefits

Features

  • Utilizes FANUC© M410/140iB
  • Individual tanks are delivered into the cell via the common chain conveyor.
  • Automatic tool changer to allow handling of boxed and un-boxed tanks./li>

Benefits

  • Provides speed and consistency that is not capable w/ manual procedures
  • Reduces the need for operators to manually handle tanks during the process.
  • Capable of picking 20 lb and 30 lb tanks, both boxed and un-boxed.
  • Automated pick and place of tanks, pallets and tier sheets using a single multi-purpose EOAT design./li>

More Info

Overall Cell Dimensions
180″ x 130″

Size Capabilities
20 lb and 30 lb, boxed and un-boxed propane tanks

Tightest Tolerances
+/- 0.2mm

Material Used
None

In Process Testing Performed
The gripper system utilized on the EOAT was tested prior to installation of the cell in the plant.
Pre-Ship runoff of a full pallet of tanks was provided at the MJ Shop prior to shipping to the customer site.

Industry for Use
Consumer products

Delivery Location
Westerville, Ohio

Standards Met
Customer supplied print, 2D Auto CAD Drawing

Product Name
Custom Designed Robotic Cell Tank Palletizing