Problem Background:

Packman is an innovative company, based in Ceres – Western Cape, that design and manufacture machines for the fresh fruit packaging industries. One of their popular products is the in-line Check Weigher. These machines are used to “check” the weight of packed fruit boxes. As the boxes travel across the load bed, the weight is measured in-line and on-the-fly. Dependent on the measurements taken, the boxes should be either rejected or let through for final palatizing. The checker system also interfaces to the warehouse management software when available.

Packman needed a solid foundation on which to develop the control system and be backed by a team of electrical engineers to ensure that the development reached its end goals. The machine should be electrically designed to specifications and have remote support built-in, seeing that most of the machines are sold nationwide.

Our Solution to the Problem:

The 3x systems built for Du Toit Group was based on the LS Electric PLC and HMI with its built-in loadcell amplifier and ethernet communications. When ethernet was not available on barcode readers and VFDs, serial communication was used. The operator has an elegant and user-friendly 4.3” HMI on which he can control the machine and do fault-finding.

Some of the features to fine in this product include:

• Full manual control;
• full automatic control;
• diagnostics;
• alarming and,
• data-logging.

All the electrical equipment was built neatly into the machine with only the relevant sensors mounted to the outside. We are committed to continuously develop and improve this product with our client to ensure a world class solution to the end user.

All of Packman’s clients now has the peace of mind that they can get the necessary local support from a company within South Africa. In the event of a breakdown and quick fault-finding needs to be conducted, remote support is also available from Cape Town.