INTRODUCTION

The RS machine is pneumatically driven semi-automatic random carton sealer. Motion is triggered by sensor inputs and controlled by air pressure and flow limiting. When one, or all, of these elements is out of adjustment, problems arise. 

OBSERVATION

 The side drives slam into tape head and paddle switch after a small box exits- Delayed Exit Reset

PROCEDURE

The Cause: When the exit reset signal comes in late, the box will fully exit and force the side drives together before resetting outward.

The Solution: Adjust the Exit Limit Switch, air pressures, and width cylinder flow control valves.

• The Exit Limit Switch triggers the reset sequence.
  • The reset sequence consists of resetting the width and height cylinders.
    •  The width cylinders should return outward to their widest position in a smooth controlled motion.
    • The Height cylinder reset is more complicated.
      • If preposition is enabled, the height reset is a timed event, meaning it won’t fully reset.
        • The preposition timer can be adjusted to alter the height reset.
          • Longer delay will cause the mast to reset higher.
            • Good for a wider range of box sizes
            • Slower cycle times
          • Shorter delay will cause the mast to remain at the height of the last box.
            • Good for batch runs of similarly sized boxes.
            • Faster cycle times
      • If preposition is disabled, the height reset is full and complete (to the top).
    • The trailing edge reset is followed by a brief 50ms Time-to-Exit delay that ensures the box is pushed out before the cycle completes.
  • The position of the Exit Limit Switch determines when the side drives reset.
    • Positioning towards the exit will delay the reset sequence and force the box further onto the downstream conveyor.
    • Positioning the switch closer to the entry will advance the reset sequence causing it to trigger earlier and minimize tipping or width cylinder overtravel.
  • Additionally, the length of the lever arm can be adjusted. The Exit Limit switch has a small black roller actuator arm that can be fine-tuned for angle and arc radius.
    • The minimum length of the lever should position the black rolling wheel above the roller bed.
    • A longer lever arm setting will minimize false cycle resets caused by empty boxes or boxes with a concave bottom.
• The air pressure and flow control valves affect the force and speed of the air cylinder.
  • Set the pressure to the recommended range to ensure belt pulling force to drive the box through the machine.
  • Adjust the flow control valves to regulate the speed and minimize overtravel and banging.

CONCLUSION

Proper machine adjustments are necessary for smooth and efficient operation. Always make sure the air pressures are within the correct range before making adjustments to timing and sensors. Verify the sensors are adjusted and aligned. Following these steps will ensure correct operation.