wo innovative Seamless Systems, with the global launch of a biscuit packaging line. Bosch will also display two complete Module++ lines, which link the company’s proven standard modules for customized processing and packaging solutions. Throughout the show, Bosch will conduct live presentations of all systems and highlight its global consultation services to support manufacturers in choosing the ideal solution for their individual requirements. “With our complete systems competence, we meet manufacturers’ need for a single-source solution provider,” says Martin Tanner, director business development and marketing, product division confectionery and food, Bosch Packaging Technology. “We offer our customers the whole world of automation, from entry-level to high-end solutions. For high production capacities, our Seamless Systems feature high-end, innovative and breakthrough technology that will take producers to the peak of productivity. For manufacturers taking their first step with automation or bringing automation to the next level, with Module++ upgrading their lines has never been easier”.
Seamless Systems for maximized Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
The Seamless Systems for biscuit and bar packaging from Bosch enable manufacturers have been developed with high productivity in mind. The speed of all line components is balanced to eliminate bottlenecks, minimize downtime and optimize product flow, which facilitates a high overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). In addition, the Seamless Systems are designed with the operator in mind, with the same look and feel across the entire line. This design concept makes operation of the system as simple as using a single machine and reduces the risk of operator error.
At Interpack 2014, Bosch will launch its new biscuit packaging line. Designed for pack style flexibility with fast changeovers, the innovative system is the first of its kind worldwide and allows manufacturers to change from slug to pile and vice-versa within just a few minutes. In addition, count changes (for example, from 14 to 8 biscuits per slug or from two-by-two to two-by-four piles) in less than one minute allow brand owners to quickly run special promotions. The biscuit packaging system is capable of handling various types and shapes of biscuits. It features breakthrough product handling technology, horizontal flow wrapping, secondary packaging and end-of-line equipment to let customers meet future market needs today.
In addition, Bosch will present its bar line, the Seamless System designed specifically for high-speed bar-type product packaging, from primary to secondary to end-of-line technologies. First launched at Interpack 2011, the bar line has been upgraded to now handle speeds up to 1,500 products per minute. The bar line on display will include a belt product distribution station and a high-speed horizontal flow wrapper with automated high-performance splicer. To complement the primary packaging process, the line also includes an integrated toploader combined with a new user-friendly case packer with improved ergonomics for safer and simpler operation.
Module++ brings versatile end-to-end solutions
For all manufacturers, Module++ provides unlimited possibilities of linking Bosch’s proven standard modules to create adaptable and scalable end-to-end solutions. “For both the food and non-food industries, manufacturers who want to be successful in today’s dynamic market must be fast, flexible and forward thinking,” remarks Tanner. “Bosch’s Module++ lines empower manufacturers by giving them the ability to adapt to change and shape their evolving businesses. It offers the ultimate in format and pack style versatility.”
To create each line, Bosch draws from its local support combined with a global knowledge network. This ensures that manufacturers will be equipped with their customized solutions realizing quick time-to-market. All machines are also available as stand-alone modules designed for simple integration with existing Bosch technology.
Module++ for processing technology to end-of-line packaging
At Interpack, Bosch will showcase its Module++ capabilities including modules for bar production, gentle product handling, distribution and feeding, as well as horizontal flow wrappers, vertical baggers, cartoners and case packers.
As part of the processing technology, Bosch is launching its new roller former that can be adjusted during production without machine stops. This new feature creates less product waste, maximizes uptime, and provides faster return on investment (ROI). Depending on specific product characteristics, Bosch will also exhibit two different types of product distribution solutions. Thanks to the touchless transportation concept, the new belt distribution system is capable of handling even the most challenging products, whether sticky, soft, top-heavy or fragile. For applications requiring additional functionalities like grouping, stacking and buffering, the new robot distribution system with an integrated quality and vision system is ideal. It can also be used for aligning irregular and random product flows into precise and consistent order. In addition, the simulation tool enables manufacturers to test the parameters offline to accelerate production start-up.
For primary packaging, Bosch showcases two alternative wrapping concepts. The horizontal flow wrapper with rotary cross-sealing unit features turning, alignment and indexing capability. It is equipped with a new narrow cutting head for higher speed heat sealing. Bosch’s most versatile wrapper serves multiple applications, offers an extended format range and is designed for full layout flexibility. The new inverted version on display offers hermetic sealing technology to protect freshness and extend product shelf-life. Also part of the Module++ line is a high-end vertical bagger capable of producing a variety of different pack styles with reclosabilty and opening features. It can easily be adapted for heat and ultrasonic sealing. Pack styles include pillow packs, block bottom, four-corner seal, doy and doy zip.
For cartoning and end-of-line packaging Bosch will exhibit two different approaches. To pack light-weight products, the new delta robotic technology ensures smooth transfer of the packages for flexible pack patterns. For packages with higher payloads, the new case packer offers high flexibility with a wide range of bag and case sizes and styles. It is designed for quick changeovers to accommodate vertical (stand up) or horizontal (lay flat) bag orientation. Both secondary packaging machines make use of Bosch’s long-standing experience in gripper technology, facilitating fast time-to-market.
Live presentations of Module++ will occur daily at 12:00, 15:00 and 17:00, while presentation of the Seamless Systems will take place daily at 11:00, 14:00 and 16:00.
The technologies will be on display at Interpack 2014, Duesseldorf, Germany from May 8 to 14 in hall 6, booth A31 – C58.
