Loading
Rockwell Automation Home
  • Industries
    • Industries Chevron RightChevron Right
      • Aerospace
      • Automotive & Tire
      • Cement
      • Chemical
      • Entertainment
      • Fibers & Textiles
      • Food & Beverage
      • Household & Personal Care
      • Infrastructure
      • Life Sciences
      • Marine
      • Metals
      • Mining
      • Oil & Gas
      • Power Generation
      • Print & Publishing
      • Pulp & Paper
      • Semiconductor
      • Water Wastewater
      • View All
    Industries
    Case StudyRockwell Automation's case studies Case Studies DistributorDistributor How to Buy EventEvent Events
  • Capabilities
    • Capabilities Chevron RightChevron Right
      • Academy of Advanced Manufacturing
      • The Connected Enterprise®
      • Consulting & Integration Services
      • Cybersecurity
      • Digital Transformation
      • EPC
      • Industrial Analytics
      • Industrial Automation & Control
      • Industrial Maintenance & Support
      • Industrial Networks
      • Lifecycle Services
      • Machine & Equipment Builders
      • MES Solutions
      • Process Solutions
      • Safety Solutions
      • View All
    Capabilities
    Blogs DistributorDistributor How to Buy EventEvent Events
  • Products
    • Hardware Chevron RightChevron Right
    • Software Chevron RightChevron Right
      • Circuit & Load Protection
      • Condition Monitoring
      • Connection Devices
      • Distributed Control Systems
      • Drives & Motors
      • Energy Monitoring
      • Human Machine Interface
      • Independent Cart Technology
      • Industrial Computers & Monitors
      • Input/Output Modules
      • Industrial Control Products
      • Lighting Control
      • Motion Control
      • Motor Control
      • Networks Security & Infrastructure
      • Packaged Solutions
      • Power Supplies
      • Programmable Controllers
      • Push Buttons & Signaling Devices
      • Relays & Timers
      • Safety Instrumented Systems
      • Safety Products
      • Sensors & Switches
      • Signal Interface
      • View All Hardware Products
    • DesignSuite
      • Dynamic Digital Twin Software
      • Studio 5000 Design Software
    • OperationSuite
      • FactoryTalk Edge Gateway
      • FactoryTalk Batch
      • FactoryTalk Historian
      • FactoryTalk View - HMI Software
      • FactoryTalk Metrics
      • Factory Talk Analytics Augmented Modeler
      • FactoryTalk Analytics LogixAI
    • MaintenanceSuite
      • FactoryTalk Analytics for Devices
      • FactoryTalk AssetCentre
      • FactoryTalk Emonitor
      • FactoryTalk Network Manager
      • FactoryTalk TeamONE
      • Fiix CMMS
    • InnovationSuite
      • Augmented Reality
      • FactoryTalk Analytics
      • MES
      • ThingWorx IIoT Platform
      • FactoryTalk Analytics Edge ML
    Products
    Find Products by Our Brands: Allen-Bradley FactoryTalk
  • Support
    • Product Support Chevron RightChevron Right
    • Documentation Chevron RightChevron Right
    • Knowledgebase Chevron RightChevron Right
    • Training Chevron RightChevron Right
    • Downloads
      • 2D & 3D Drawings
      • Activations
      • Add-on Profiles
      • Application Code Libraries
      • Compatibility & Downloads
      • Drivers & Firmware
      • Electronic Datasheets
      • EPLAN Macros
      • Sample Code Library
      • Software Patches
      • View All
    • Selection & Configuration
      • Integrated Architecture Builder
      • Control Systems Configuration Tools
      • Procurement Specifications
      • ProposalWorks Proposal Builder
      • Global Short-circuit Current Ratings Tool
      • View All
    • Compatibility & Migration
      • Migration & Modernization
      • Lifecycle Status
      • Product Replacement Lookup
      • View All
      • Technical Documentation Center
      • Technical Specifications
      • Product Certifications
      • Product Drawings
      • Release Notes
      • Literature Library
    • Support Center
      • Support Options
      • Search for Answers
      • Chat Online
      • Call Us
      • View All
    • Online Forum
      • My Inbox
      • My Favorites
      • My Subscriptions
      • View All
    • My TechConnect
      • Chat History
      • Service Ticket History
      • Manage Your Favorite Answers
      • Field Service Request
      • View All
      • E-Learning Courses
      • Instructor-led Courses
      • Training Workstations
      • View All
    Support
    Contact Us HelpHelp Get Support LaunchpadTools and applications View All Tools
  • Company
    • Events Chevron RightChevron Right
    • News Chevron RightChevron Right
    • Careers Chevron RightChevron Right
    • PartnerNetwork Chevron RightChevron Right
    • About Us Chevron RightChevron Right
    • Featured Events
      • Automation Fair
      • Process Solutions User Group
      • Rockwell Automation On The Move
      • Rockwell Automation TechEd
      • ROKLive
      • PACK EXPO CONNECTS
      • View All
    • Webinars
      • Live
      • On-Demand
      • View All
      • Blogs
      • Case Studies
      • The Journal
      • Podcasts
      • Press Releases
      • View All
      • View Jobs
      • Teams & People
      • Hackathon
      • Employee Video Spotlight
      • View All
      • Authorized Distributors
      • Digital Partners
      • Licensed Developers
      • OEM Partners
      • Strategic Alliance Partners
      • System Integrator Partners
      • Technology Partners
      • PartnerNetwork Portal
      • View All
      • Our Brands
      • Our Community
      • Our History
      • Integrity & Sustainability
      • Investor Relations
      • View All
    Company
    ProductivityProductivity Investor Relations
  • Sales
  • Sales
  • View All Industries
  • View All
  • View All
  • View All
  • View All
  • Aerospace
  • Automotive & Tire
  • Cement
  • Chemical
  • Entertainment
  • Fibers & Textiles
  • Food & Beverage
  • Household & Personal Care
  • Infrastructure
  • Life Sciences
  • Marine
  • Metals
  • Mining
  • Oil & Gas
  • Power Generation
  • Print & Publishing
  • Pulp & Paper
  • Semiconductor
  • Water Wastewater
  • View All
  • Academy of Advanced Manufacturing
  • The Connected Enterprise®
  • Consulting & Integration Services
  • Cybersecurity
  • Digital Transformation
  • EPC
  • Industrial Analytics
  • Industrial Automation & Control
  • Industrial Maintenance & Support
  • Industrial Networks
  • Lifecycle Services
  • Machine & Equipment Builders
  • MES Solutions
  • Process Solutions
  • Safety Solutions
  • View All
  • Circuit & Load Protection
  • Condition Monitoring
  • Connection Devices
  • Distributed Control Systems
  • Drives & Motors
  • Energy Monitoring
  • Human Machine Interface
  • Industrial Computers & Monitors
  • Input/Output Modules
  • Industrial Control Products
  • Lighting Control
  • Motion Control
  • Motor Control
  • Networks Security & Infrastructure
  • Packaged Solutions
  • Power Supplies
  • Programmable Controllers
  • Push Buttons & Signaling Devices
  • Relays & Timers
  • Safety Instrumented Systems
  • Safety Products
  • Sensors & Switches
  • Signal Interface
  • View All Hardware Products
  • View All
  • View All
  • Technical Documentation Center
  • Technical Specifications
  • Product Certifications
  • Product Drawings
  • Release Notes
  • Literature Library
  • View All
  • E-Learning Courses
  • Instructor-led Courses
  • Training Workstations
  • View All
  • View All
  • Blogs
  • Case Studies
  • The Journal
  • Press Releases
  • View All
  • View Jobs
  • Hackathon
  • Employee Video Spotlight
  • View All
  • Authorized Distributors
  • Digital Partners
  • Licensed Developers
  • OEM Partners
  • System Integrator Partners
  • Technology Partners
  • PartnerNetwork Portal
  • View All
  • Our Brands
  • Our History
  • Investor Relations
  • View All
  • iTRAK Intelligent Track Systems
  • MagneMover Lite Intelligent Conveyor System
  • QuickStick Intelligent Conveyor System
  • View All
  • Dynamic Digital Twin Software
  • Studio 5000 Design Software
  • FactoryTalk Edge Gateway
  • FactoryTalk Batch
  • FactoryTalk Historian
  • FactoryTalk View - HMI Software
  • FactoryTalk Metrics
  • Factory Talk Analytics Augmented Modeler
  • FactoryTalk Analytics LogixAI
  • FactoryTalk Analytics for Devices
  • FactoryTalk AssetCentre
  • FactoryTalk Emonitor
  • FactoryTalk Network Manager
  • FactoryTalk TeamONE
  • Fiix CMMS
  • Augmented Reality
  • FactoryTalk Analytics
  • MES
  • ThingWorx IIoT Platform
  • FactoryTalk Analytics Edge ML
  • 2D & 3D Drawings
  • Activations
  • Add-on Profiles
  • Application Code Libraries
  • Compatibility & Downloads
  • Drivers & Firmware
  • Electronic Datasheets
  • EPLAN Macros
  • Sample Code Library
  • Software Patches
  • View All
  • Integrated Architecture Builder
  • Control Systems Configuration Tools
  • Procurement Specifications
  • ProposalWorks Proposal Builder
  • Global Short-circuit Current Ratings Tool
  • View All
  • Migration & Modernization
  • Lifecycle Status
  • Product Replacement Lookup
  • View All
  • Support Options
  • Search for Answers
  • Chat Online
  • Call Us
  • View All
  • My Inbox
  • My Favorites
  • My Subscriptions
  • View All
  • Chat History
  • Service Ticket History
  • Manage Your Favorite Answers
  • Field Service Request
  • View All
  • Automation Fair
  • Process Solutions User Group
  • Rockwell Automation On The Move
  • Rockwell Automation TechEd
  • ROKLive
  • PACK EXPO CONNECTS
  • View All
  • Live
  • On-Demand
  • View All
  • #ROKLive Podcast Series
  • ROK Talk on Safety, Sensing Connectivity Podcast Series
  • ROK Talk on Industrial Components Podcast Series
  • ROK Talk on Drives Podcast Series
  • View All
  • Students & New Grads
  • View All
  • Cisco Partnership
  • Endress+Hauser
  • FANUC
  • Microsoft
  • Panduit
  • View All
  • Our Focused Giving
  • STEM Education
  • Lifelong Learning
  • View All
  • Sustainability Report
  • Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • Environmental, Health, & Safety
  • Ethics & Compliance
  • Global Supply Chain & Sourcing
  • Product Environmental Compliance
  • Quality Management Systems
  • Trust & Security
  • Workforce of Tomorrow
  • View All
Case StudyRockwell Automation's case studies Case Studies DistributorDistributor How to Buy EventEvent Events
Blogs DistributorDistributor How to Buy EventEvent Events
Find Products by Our Brands:
Allen-Bradley FactoryTalk
Contact Us HelpHelp Get Support LaunchpadTools and applications View All Tools
ProductivityProductivity Investor Relations
  • Literature LibraryLiterature Library
    Literature Library

    Access technical and commercial publications for hardware and software products, applications, services and solutions.

    PCDCProduct Compatibility and Download Center
    Compatibility & Downloads

    Find downloads including firmware, release notes, associated software, drivers, tools and utilities.

    KnowledgebaseKnowledgebase Support Center
    Knowledgebase

    Browse the database of questions and answers on a variety of products and technologies.

    Product ConfiguratorProduct Configurator
    Product Configurator

    Configure and select products rapidly.

    Software SubscriptionsSoftware Subscriptions
    Software Subscriptions

    One stop shopping for software and subscription services.

    2D & 3D Drawings Bill of Materials CrossWorks Electronic Datasheets Motion Analyzer My Equipment My Training E-Learning Portal Product Lifecycle Status Product Registration Product Selection Toolbox Repairs Sample Code Library Software Activations View All
    Tools
    UserUser Sign In/Create an Account
  • User Account User
Tools
Literature LibraryLiterature Library
Literature Library
PCDCProduct Compatibility and Download Center
Compatibility & Downloads
KnowledgebaseKnowledgebase Support Center
Knowledgebase
Product ConfiguratorProduct Configurator
Product Configurator
Software SubscriptionsSoftware Subscriptions
Software Subscriptions
2D & 3D Drawings Bill of Materials CrossWorks Electronic Datasheets Motion Analyzer My Equipment My Training E-Learning Portal Product Lifecycle Status Product Registration Product Selection Toolbox Repairs Sample Code Library Software Activations View All
Blog | Machine and Equipment Builders
Recent ActivityRecent Activity

One Smart Path to Extraordinary Machine Flexibility

Share This:

LinkedInLinkedIn
TwitterTwitter
FacebookFacebook
PrintPrint
EmailEmail
Main Image

It’s no secret. Machine builders today are under significant pressure to deliver equipment that can meet the demands of flexible manufacturing. Those who supply consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are especially challenged to deliver future-proof designs that optimize changeover today – and ramp up rapidly for new SKUs not yet imagined.

Until recently, machine builders had little choice regarding how they delivered equipment to the factory floor. Typically, any CPG manufacturing or packaging application was comprised of a series of essentially standalone machines that were integrated to complete the line.

That legacy remains on many plant floors today. Often characterized by static mechanical parts, friction-based conveyance, and a plethora of disparate, ancillary equipment, these lines may achieve impressive throughput running uniform product based on fixed variables.

But machine flexibility is often compromised. Complex mechanical adjustments and equipment synchronization take time. And time is at a premium on any plant floor – especially when a product launch is at stake.

Smart Machines eBook
Main Image
eBook
Smart Machines eBook

Are you ready to "Get Smart"? Find out key considerations for developing smart machines and equipment.

Download Now
The Common Problem with Uncommon Solutions

With advances in technology, OEMs now have a better way to meet the demands of manufacturers for more flexibility. Specifically, three key mechatronic technologies are changing the equation for OEMs and the customers they serve.

First, robotics is finding its way into more CPG applications than ever. Robots are intrinsically flexible, thanks to their ability to operate fully in three dimensions, determine appropriate paths without mechanical rerouting – and address infinitely variable product shapes and sizes.

Secondly, linear motor technology – and notably, independent cart technology (ICT) – boost machine response to a diverse product mix. Unlike conventional conveyance that advances product on a preconfigured path at fixed speed, ICT intelligently moves products as operations are completed.

And finally, automated changeover, which minimizes the need for manual intervention and facilitates machine setup for a new product or packaging configuration from the operator interface. New servo drive functionality is making this option even more cost-effective.

In addition to enabling more machine flexibility, advanced technologies also allow OEMs to do more with less equipment – and in less space. In fact, more machine builders are delivering compact solutions that combine once distinct operations, like filling and cartoning, into a unified offering.

But without careful planning, disparate control systems could still limit success.

Bringing It Together: Unified Machine Control

For OEMs, the critical question is not only which technologies are most appropriate for the application, but also how best to integrate those technologies into the machine and plant architecture.

Not so long ago, machine builders had little choice. Advanced technologies sourced from third party suppliers typically came equipped with proprietary control systems. As a result, machine coordination relied on the challenging integration of multiple disparate systems.

For the OEM, this scenario adds complexity at every stage of a machine’s lifecycle. Design efficiency is difficult to achieve and customer support is more challenging when staff must master multiple systems. Performance gains may be elusive when communication lags and synchronization stand in the way.

Today there’s a better way, thanks to advances in programmable automation controllers (PACs).  Enhanced processor speeds and performance now available in the latest PACs means machine builders can take a unified approach to machine control.

Advanced technologies like robotics, ICT and automated changeover systems can now run on the standard PACs that run the rest of the machine. One controller. One design environment.

Unified machine control allows OEMs to more easily integrate, control and coordinate advanced technologies. And it also simplifies machine operation and maintenance for the end user, who must only understand and support one system.

Robust Data Integration. Meaningful Information

But unified machine control does more. A machine built on a unified control platform also provides one unified source for information generated by that machine – and places OEMs in a much better position to deliver that information in a meaningful way.

Unified machine control provides an excellent foundation for visualization, reporting and analytics solutions to help monitor the key factors affecting performance, efficiency and quality.

Simply put, unified machine control enables OEMs to create smarter equipment that more easily integrates into a facility – and provides access to information that allows end users to better respond to changing market demands.

See how this OEM is taking advantage of a unified control platform.

Learn more about information-enabled machines.

This blog was co-authored by Mike Wagner, Business Development Manager, Rockwell Automation.

Published September 9, 2019


Steve Mulder
Steve Mulder
Packaging Segment Lead, Rockwell Automation
Connect:
EmailEmail
Subscribe

Subscribe to Rockwell Automation and receive the latest news, thought leadership and information directly to your inbox.

Subscribe

Recommended For You

Loading
  • Technical Question
  • Chat Technical Support
  • Phone Support
  • Contact Sales
  • General Questions
  1. Chevron LeftChevron Left United States Chevron RightChevron Right
  2. Chevron LeftChevron Left Company Chevron RightChevron Right
  3. Chevron LeftChevron Left News Chevron RightChevron Right
  4. Chevron LeftChevron Left Blogs Chevron RightChevron Right
Discover
  • The Connected Enterprise®
  • Create Your Account
  • Case Studies
  • Events
Information for...
  • Distributors
  • OEM
  • System Integrators
  • Technology Partners
  • Investors
  • Career Seekers
  • Avoid Unauthorized Sources
Contact Us
  • General Questions
  • Technical Questions
  • How to Buy
  • Local Sales & Service
  • Pricing & Availability
  • Report Ethical Concerns
Site Information
  • Legal
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Preferences
  • Terms of Use
  • Trademarks
Change Country Site SelectionChange RockwellAutomation.com site selection to a different country, region or language Change Country
United States/English

Keep Updated With Us

Sign up to receive our latest headlines for free.

Stay Informed Now
Follow Us
BlogRockwell Automation's Blog
Copyright ©2021 Rockwell Automation, Inc.
United States