Harpak-ULMA announced that it will go into a partnership with FANUC America to improve robotics, automation and software solutions. Harpak-ULMA will be showcasing FANUC’s products in their customer experience centers (CXE) beginning December 2021. Participants during the PACK EXPO 2021 event though can test and experience the demo unit for themselves.

What will be incorporated in the packing and production facilities is state-of-the-art smart thermoforming machines. These utilise Allen Bradley automaton controls from Rockwell Automation, with the assistance of FANUC collaborative robots to accomplish product loading and case packing. Three processes are tun simultaneously, showing a smart and connected packaging line. Additionally, this technology can be used with PTC Augmented Reality software suites.

This partnership will showcase how advanced technology can provide greater business value and transform the packaging sector. Harpak-ULMA’s CXEs, with this innovation, can support a variety of functions – from process, peelability and new product testing, to skin and vacuum trials and other R&D projects.

“There is simply no more effective way to convey what smart, connected packaging assets bring to the table,” explained Kevin Roach, Harpak-ULMA’s CEO. “These are not pie-in-the-sky visions of what we could do — they are concrete, operational examples of what we already do. They’re also a fantastic way to showcase the power and potential of collaboration among some of the industry’s top suppliers. No solution is an island unto itself. Adding FANUC America, the leading supplier of robots and automation to our CXE puts an exclamation point on it for our customers. The CXEs help communicate the flexibility and accuracy of fully automated packaging operations using some of the most advanced robotic and software technologies available today. We expect to continue building out CXE locations in conjunction with our partners based on strategic priorities.”

Further, the partnership will allow Harpak-ULMA to join FANUC’s Authorized System Integrator Program. This can enhance the former’s line of automation capabilities, particularly in palletizing, case packing and product loading segments.

“The addition of Harpak-ULMA to our family of Authorized System Integrators is a natural extension of our cordial relationship in Europe,” said Dick Motley, director of ASI Sales, FANUC America. “Like Harpak-ULMA, we see digital transformation as a priority among many of our mutual customers, and the CXE Initiative should be a great showcase. We’re looking forward to working together on automation solutions for our consumer- and durable-goods packaging clients.”

Harpak-ULMA provides smart packaging systems that result in better efficiency and uptime, higher throughput and reduced waste. FANUC America Corporation, on the other hand, specializes in CNC systems, factory automation and robotics.