Total Processing & Packaging Exhibition - R.A. Rodriguez stand no: 5865

Introduced by R. A. Rodriguez to the UK market last year, the Universal Robot truly provides plug-and-pay productivity. It’s a compact, light weight industrial robot arm that has six axes of movement and above all is exceptionally quick and easy to install. No expert programming is needed and within a couple of hours it can be ready to run.

Universal Robot can benefit virtually every food manufacturer and packer as it’s so flexible. It is the ideal entry level automation device that can be set up by anyone and operates from a standard 240V supply. Weighing just 18kg it can easily be moved around and requires no dedicated base.

Unlike other robots, this new addition to the R. A. Rodriguez range consumes little power, typically less than 200W when using an average programme. It also generates much less noise than larger, more complex robots. With a footprint of just 149mm diameter the Universal Robot is supplied with an electrical interface that is compatible with most industrial sensors and PLCs.

R. A. Rodriguez has enjoyed a long and successful association with linear motion and control specialist, IEF Werner. The handling system that will be demonstrated at the show combines proven products from the IEF Werner component business. It is designed to provide orderly and gentle transfer of items to or from packaging lines, often integrating end of line processes such as part marking.

Four basic and fully programmable models complete the range, each with its distinct merits, but all with the ability to be tailored to suit the precise needs of the application. This can range from simple three-axis, pick and place to multi-axis handling and complete turnkey solutions.

All are fundamentally designed to fill - or unfill - a tray with small items. The tray is then indexed down the stack and a new tray presented, a process that is smooth and reliable. Pallet weights range from 5kg to 30kg. Usually most applications require bespoke tray designs and gripper technology but IEF Werner palletisers are also available with a wide range of standard accessories to optimise the handling process.