Harpak-Ulma has collaborated with Rockwell Automation to deliver smart packaging solutions, integrated with PTC IoT and augmented reality platforms.
Image: The Harpak-Ulma thermoformer is delivered with Integrated Architecture production control and information system from Rockwell Automation. Photo: courtesy of Harpak-ULMA.
Harpak-Ulma has joined the PartnerNetwork program of Rockwell Automation as an OEM machine builder to support the development of advanced packaging solutions.
Ulma Thermoformer lines are now provided with the Integrated Architecture production control and information system from Rockwell Automation, and can be integrated with IoT and augmented reality platforms offered smart manufacturing software provider PTC.
The severe competition among the food, medical and industrial producers making the packagers to search for new ways to meet customer demands for convenience, freshness and sustainability.
Production automation is significant to deliver on market demands and smart, connected machines and enterprises that combine automation with information technologies can solve longstanding operational and maintenance problems.
Harpak-Ulma CEO Kevin Roach said: “IoT, AI, machine learning, big data, predictive maintenance, and augmented reality are just a few of the ways that connected machines promise to improve packaging operations and reduce total cost of ownership but realizing those benefits will require nothing short of rethinking packaging automation.
“By forging closer ties with Rockwell Automation and PTC, we can create innovative solutions and deliver them faster than any company can working independently.”
The partnership has already worked together to advance thermoforming machine capabilities, which helped packagers to manage overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and other crucial key performance indicators (KPIs) across lines composed of varied equipment.
Harpak-Ulma is already accepting orders from the customers for the new thermoforming applications, which will advance packaging automation capabilities.
Rockwell Automation president and CEO Blake Moret said: “Smart, connected machines are a critical piece of an end user’s digital transformation journey.
“Together with Harpak-ULMA and PTC, we are helping companies turn the data that’s a natural byproduct of their manufacturing production process into useful, contextualized information.”
Harpak-Ulma provides complete packaging line solutions for food, medical, bakery, and industrial products.
Rockwell Automation provides industrial automation and information solutions, and employs around 22,000 people to serve customers in more than 80 countries.