An enhanced, fully compatible version of its successful PickMaster 2 software platform for automated packaging lines with multiple robot stations has been launched by ABB.
PickMaster 2.20 includes adaptive task completion, a powerful new process control function that allows information transfer between individual robots in multi-robot applications. ABB says it significantly improves the method of progressively filling blister packs or cases requiring packing with multiple items as they pass a line of robots, while individual case positions need no longer be assigned to specific robots.
ATC is easily combined with PickMaster's load balancing and bypassing function, which distributes production loads between multiple robot work areas and prevents upstream robots consuming most of the products on conveyors and leaving too few for the others.
