01

Practical overview

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, automation proved to be an essential aspect of manufacturing. Many companies were looking for conveyors for their unique applications, such as mask manufacturing, medical device assembly, and pharmaceutical processing.

Features of the medical device system:

This system includes a FlexMove Helix conveyor, which provides a buffering zone and product accumulation between processes. Additionally, the tight footprint means product can be around other machinery without taking up valuable floor space.

These are unique applications that require a high degree of accuracy as well as multiple points for operators to interface with prescriptions as they are filled and processed.

  • The pallets are approximately 12” long and travel at 40 feet per minute (or parts per minute) on most of the system.
  • The overhead conveyor and FlexMove Helix conveyors allow the pallets to move around existing equipment and provide employee walkthroughs. These conveyors are about 9 feet tall.
  • Product stops are included on the 2200 Precision Move conveyors that control where the pallets can accumulate. Photo eyes watch for pallets backing up and stop them as needed. This prevents pallets from accumulating on the spirals or in corners where they could become jammed.
  • The system includes HMI technology to provide conveyor status and control. This is used for traffic monitoring and uses input from customer-owned equipment to verify the system is running.
  • Tote creates a partially enclosed pallet to carry individual prescriptions and maintain accuracy throughout the process.
  • Photo eye pneumatic stops and diverting arms control the flow of totes.
  • Easily removable totes help to create an ergonomic working environment for employees

02

Pallet Conveyor for Mask Manufacturing

The Covid-19 pandemic created an unprecedented need for disposable medical masks and respirators, which made it difficult for many manufacturers to keep up with demand.