Solutions · Automation
Integrated automation for cheese production
We develop automated solutions for conveying and handling cheeses, molds, lids, racks and process equipment. Mechanics, process and controls are developed as one integrated function.
Automatic rack handling
In brief – for those making the investment decision
Potential operational effect
Less manual handling and lower dependence on staffing.
Basis for calculation
- Number of manual handling operations
- Staffing per shift
- Cycle time
- Uptime
- Maintenance
Risk and other value
Better working environment, consistent cycle rate and fewer heavy or repetitive movements.
The expected effect is calculated from your baseline and depends on product, process, capacity and operation.
The order of things
Automation that starts from the process
Product flow, cycle times, buffers, safety, cleaning and accessibility are analyzed before the movement is automated.
An automated movement that does not match the cycle rate of the rest of the line simply moves the bottleneck. That is why we develop mechanics, process and controls as one function rather than three deliveries.
- Product flow and cycle rate
- Cycle times and buffers
- Machine safety
- Cleaning and accessibility
XY and XYZ gantry systems
Standardized movement, custom tooling
Gantry-based handling systems move custom tooling in two or three axes. They can stack, destack, lift, rotate and position cheeses, molds, lids and racks.
The movement itself is standardized, while the tooling is developed for the task. That gives you proven, reliable mechanics around the part that is unique to your product.
Typical functions
What the system can do for you
The functions are combined into the handling your line needs – often together with internal conveying and automatic buffers.
- 01XY and XYZ gantry systemsGantry-based systems that move the tooling in two or three axes above the line.
- 02Custom-built gantry systemsFrames and tracks designed for the space and the loads the task involves.
- 03Stacking and destackingMolds, lids and racks are stacked and separated at the same cycle rate as the line runs.
- 04Turning and rotationCheeses, molds and racks are turned or rotated in the sequence the product requires.
- 05Tool changeThe same system can handle several items when the gripper can be changed.
- 06Loading and unloading racksCheeses are placed in and taken out of brining and ripening racks.
- 07Integration with production linesThe system communicates with the machines and control systems already in your plant.
- 08Safety and documentationGuarding, risk assessment, CE documentation and as-built documentation are included in the delivery.
- 09Automatic cleaningWhere the design allows, cleaning is built into the system.
How we start
Show us the movement you want to automate
A short video of how the handling is done today tells us more than a requirements specification. Then we can talk about what can actually be automated – and what should not be.
Feel free to attach video, layout or the dimensions and weight of what needs to be handled.
