AUTONOMOUS MOBILE ROBOTS
Honeywell Intelligrated collaborated with Fetch Robotics to provide autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to distribution centers. These AMRs operate safely alongside employees to transport items through distribution centers without human guidance or fixed paths. They use a combination of LiDAR and 3D cameras to safely and accurately navigate unpredictable warehouse environments. In the event of an obstacle, the robots adjust routes in real time, can take on repetitive warehousing tasks and deploy and redeploy in just a single day without integration requirements or changes to infrastructure.
Honeywell Integrated
866-936-7300
Fetch Robotics
408-300-9056
METAL DETECTION TECHNOLOGY
Advanced Detection Systems announced its new ProScan Max III metal detection technology, which boasts patented “Auto-Balance” technology and Max III reliability. Standard features include administrator-assigned user names and log-in levels, data logger access through a downloadable thumb drive, running list of recent detection history visible from the menu and flexible automatic reject timing to ensure a reliable detect and reject process.
Advanced Detection Systems
414-672-0553
COLOR-CODED BROOM
Remco added a soft/split angle broom to its Vikan line of color-coded tools. Vikan created the broom in response to food manufacturers who prefer the design of its angled bristles and its ability to reach into corners, but need softer bristles. Vikan brooms are made of FDA-compliant polypropylene with stainless-steel staples. The soft/split angle broom requires a Euro-thread handle, also sold by Vikan, the thread is designed to prevent walk-off and the handles are ergonomically friendly. The soft/split broom comes in six colors.
Remco Products Corp.
317-876-9856
SANITARY CONVEYOR
Dorner’s newly redesigned AquaGard 7350 V2 Series sanitary conveyor is built for baking, snack food, pet food, packaging and other industries that require occasional wipedown cleanings of the conveyor. Added safety measures entail covering the upper and lower chain edges, and fully containing the drive system, which reduces catenary belt sag and conveyor noise. Designed to maximize available plant space, additional features include optional nosebar idler tails with V-Guide tracking to keep the belt in position, 7-gauge stainless-steel stands for greater stability, stainless-steel bed frames, flat conveyor sides, robust single piece chain pin for ease of removal to adjust chain length and curved chain, which can be easily lifted in the straight sections for cleaning and maintenance, among others.
Dorner Manufacturing Corp.
800-397-8664
PACKAGING KEEPS FRUIT FRESH THROUGHOUT SUPPLY CHAIN
StePac partnered with Delfin Srl to develop Xflow, a patented, functional, flowpack solution for blueberries. Xflow combines the modified atmosphere/modified humidity (MA/MH) properties of Xtend packaging in a film that also contains a unique sealing layer, making it compatible with conventional flow pack machines. With the Xflow system, 12 clamshells are transported on a conveyor belt into the flowpack machine, where they are wrapped with the Xflow film, then sealed before being placed in the carton. Xflow extends freshness of fruits and vegetables by providing the MA/MH feature that slows respiration and aging, while inhibiting microbial growth. It also reduces dehydration and weight loss during storage and shipping. The customized water vapour transmission rates of the film provide optimal moisture control for packaged produce throughout the supply chain, eliminating free moisture, thereby alleviating the risk of microbial decay.
StePac USA
630-268-6307
ERP-BASED BLOCKCHAIN TRACEABILITY SOLUTION
RSM US launched CLEARthru, what is said to be the first enterprise resource planning (ERP)-based blockchain traceability solution that combines supply chain integrity, safety and product source tracking information for food and beverage manufacturers, distributors and retailers. CLEARthru leverages direct ERP system integration with Hyperledger blockchain technology to code, track and trace food and beverage items starting at the field level, processing facility or packing plant, and provides a comprehensive dashboard of product information, including country of origin to grower, lot number, allergen information and expiration dates. In addition, CLEARthru can communicate directly with consumers to share recall notices and send value-added product information, promotions and recipes.
RSM US LLC
800-274-3978
