AUTOMATION
production floor . Machine vision can be used to inspect different processes like code validation , matching , shape identification , QA for filling and capping , liquid filling level , contamination , sealing , labeling , QR code identification . A key differentiator for any packaging company , machine vision is integrated into the automation portfolio , and companies do not need to invest in an additional controller for inspection . Machine vision leads to productivity through lower operating costs , cutting costs in inspection processes , and reducing market rejections .
Machine vision technology is suited for very specific applications in the packaging industry , enhancing productivity and quality in many ways . However , until today , machine control and machine vision were believed to be two different worlds . Incorporating machine vision into an application was looked at as a highly complex task . B & R ’ s vision system provides an unprecedented level of integration and flexibility , eliminating drawbacks previously associated with vision systems .
Most of us in the field of automation are aware that integration solves major issues . B & R ’ s vision system seamlessly integrated into our automation portfolio enables extremely precise synchronization for high-speed image capture . Objectspecific functions such as bright-field or dark-field illumination are easy to implement . Image triggers and lighting control can be synchronized with the rest of the automation system in real hard time and with sub-microsecond precision .
z The OMAC PackML standard with OPC UA
Vendor-independent packaging lines are more of a reality using PackML , which gives all the machines that make up a packaging line a standard look and feel and ensures operational consistency . The modularity and consistency of PackML enable self-optimization and self-configuration of production lines and facilities . With its modular application development method – mapp technology , B & R has revolutionized application development in automation . These modular software blocks simplify program development , reduce development time by an average of 67 % and improve diagnostics .
Mapp PackML represents the logic of a machine controller as per the OMAC PackML standard . With mapp , it becomes effortless to configure and relieves the developer of programming every detail . Furthermore , Mapp View helps to manage and visualize these integrated programmable states easily across different platforms and displays . Mapp OEE permits the automatic collection of production data and provides OEE functionality without any programming .
The Open standards of PackML combined with OPC UA enables seamless flow of data from field level to supervisory level or IT . OPC UA is an independent and flexible communication protocol that transfers all production data within the machine , machine-to-machine , and machine-to-MES / ERP / cloud . This eliminates the need for traditional factory-level Fieldbus systems . OPC UA is implemented using standard PLC open function blocks . Such widely used queuing protocols such as OPC UA , MQTT or AMQP , enables machines to share data to IT systems . Furthermore , it ensures that the cloud receives data even when the network connection has low bandwidth or is intermittently unavailable .
z The OEM advantage with Packaging 4.0
Today the challenge is not the technology but the mindset . However , as more OEMs understand that Industrial IoT and advanced automation technology are mature , safe , and secure to implement , the barriers are reduced . For Indian OEMs , whether SMEs , MSMEs , or big players , understanding the advantages and taking action is essential for the Packaging 4.0 journey .
Today , digital transformation has enabled machines and lines to aggregate production scheduling , asset management , operational data , energy data , and more . B & R boosts machine builders in their digital transformation journey with various solutions for machine and factory automation . With its edge architectures , B & R also collaborates with factories to make new and existing installations smart . Together with energy and condition monitoring and process data acquisition , these architectures are practical solutions for packaging machine builders and factories to become efficient and more intelligent in a cost-effective manner . z
Fig 4 : mapp Technology reduces development effort by 67 %
Pooja Patil is in the Corporate Communication department of B & R Industrial Automation India in Pune .
44 Packaging South Asia 25 August 2021