CODI Manufacturing, a Colorado-based machine builder, has successfully developed a compact, high-speed case packer in under four weeks with support from Festo Canada’s engineering tools and assembly services. Designed for small-to-medium food processors, the machine achieves 12 cycles per minute while maintaining an industry-leading price-to-performance ratio.
The case packer’s core functionality relies on a two-axis handling system that efficiently transfers six bottles from one conveyor into boxes on another. CODI utilized Festo’s Handling Guide Online (HGO) tool to quickly configure the system, ensuring seamless integration of servos, motors, mounting plates, and accessories. This digital design process, completed in minutes, significantly reduced engineering time. Festo then delivered a pre-assembled, ready-to-install handling system, enabling CODI to expedite both construction and commissioning.
The machine incorporates multiple Festo technologies, including multiprotocol CMMT-AS servo drives and EMMT-ST one-cable motors for precision motion control, along with CPX-AP-A remote I/O terminals and VTUX valve terminals for streamlined operation. Cost efficiency is achieved through Simplified Motion Series electric-linear actuators, while rugged operator interfacing is handled by a CDPX IP67 HMI. Advanced motion coordination is managed by a CPX-CEC controller with EtherCAT communication.
A key feature is the custom pneumatic gripper, developed collaboratively by Festo and CODI, which provides real-time feedback on bottle handling. The system’s flexibility allows operators to easily swap gripper heads to accommodate various container types—such as bottles, cans, jars, or pouches—and select new recipes via the HMI for quick adaptation.
CODI had long planned to develop a compact case packer for mid-market clients, but the project gained urgency when a customer requested one just four weeks into an eight-week order. With Festo’s HGO-supplied CAD files and pre-configured components, CODI not only met but exceeded the tight deadline.
“Festo’s engineering support and ready-to-install systems were critical in meeting this aggressive timeline,” said a CODI representative. The successful deployment highlights how Festo’s integrated solutions enable manufacturers to accelerate innovation and respond swiftly to market demands.
Festo Canada specializes in automation solutions, offering motion control, pneumatics, and industrial IoT technologies to enhance manufacturing efficiency across diverse industries.
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