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Automatic panel labelling avoids sticky situations: Photo 1

Automatic panel labelling avoids sticky situations

Machine Feature: Automatic Labelling 

Available on SELCO Beam Saws 

 

Biesse can now supply its SELCO machines with an automatic labelling system on the beam saw, for factories looking to drive down waste and enhance workflow efficiency.

 

How does automatic labelling work?

Labelling cut panels for internal information and identification purposes is a key component of a functioning workflow. Normally, this involves siting a labelling station next to the beam saw to print off individual labels and apply them manually to each panel after it has been sized. However, this slows down the process and introduces the risk of human error: what if the wrong label is appied or the operator forgets to apply the label altogether? 

The automatic labelling option integrates Biesse’s proprietary OptiPlanning cutting pattern optimisation software with an automatic labelling system that is mounted on the pressure beam. From cutting pattern information generated via the software, the labelling system moves rapidly along the beam to apply an individual label to a specific piece whilst it is being cut.

The process starts with the optimisation of the cutting list. This list includes individual piece sizes and other optional information including subsequent drilling, CNC and edge-banding programmes. It may also include information that can be used to create a schematic drawing of the piece cut on the label, showing what sides need to be edged, as well as the type of edge to be used for each side. This provides a visual aid to the edge-bander operator, reducing the risk of placing the panel into the edge-bander machine in the wrong orientation.

Once this is completed, the cutting optimisation is processed in the software and production files are generated and sent to the beam saw. These files contain the optimised cutting pattern for the cutting list and any additional information selected.

The final step is for the operator to configure the layout of the label - depending on the information required for that job. This ensures that the labels are individually customised with the correct data - no further operator intervention is required.

 

What are the benefits of automatic labelling?

The primary benefit of this approach is that it achieves an error-free production process by creating a continuous, automated information flow.

When the panel is presented at the next work station, be that drilling or edge banding, the operator simply scans the barcode or QR code to recall all the information associated with that panel. This could include a visualisation of the panel, showing which sides need to be edged or where holes need to be drilled. Without this instruction, there is the risk of workers using the wrong machine programme on a panel that could result in, for example, a panel with the wrong number of holes drilled in it, creating a reject panel. Therefore, harnessing automation to match the correct panel with the correct manufacturing step locks out the potential for human error, driving down waste, boosting productivity and guaranteeing a defect-free workflow.

As well as printing barcodes, the labeller can be programmed to print additional data such as job name, customer name and panel dimensions. Although more basic than the type of data that can be accessed via a barcode, this information is still extremely valuable for fast and accurate panel identification and reconciliation. 

 

View the full range of Selco Beam Saws HERE.

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