iRobot

FANUC Robotics America introduced its new intelligent R-1000iA/80F Learning “Gakushu” robot, which is designed for high-speed palletizing during Pack Expo Las Vegas.

The company says the robot’s software allows it to “record the path characteristics with an accelerometer” which is run multiple times, letting the robot optimize path data therefore “reducing the vibration while improving cycle time,” said Virgil Wilson, product manager, FANUC Robotics America.

The robot boasts a slim design, which helps consumers reduce the size of their automation system by allowing for more robots in a work cell, or putting a single robot in one smaller work cell.

Reducing work cell sizes will require less equipment, which FANUC says will mean an energy advantage for smaller automation systems.

“This equates to a greener facility using less energy for costly utilities such as lighting, heating and cooling,” Wilson added.

http://fanucrobotics.com/

The fourth sense

Long are the days of relying solely on sight behind us, as the packaging industry is now integrating another sense to the mix.

Protection Decoration Conditionnement (PDC) Europe is partnering with Eos Innovation to develop elastomer sleeves which package products, but with a new twist.

The sleeves are manipulated during manufacturing to replicate textures, either "smooth, marbled, scaled or dimpled," according a PDC press release.

"Skin enhances any product: spirits, cosmetics, perfume, everyday and decorative items, limited editions... it adds value and distinction to the brand by appealing to the consumers' senses of touch and sight," said Derek Vandervoorde, president of PDC Europe.

What's next? Smell?

Parents beware

Following last week's post about MeadWestvaco (MWV), two medicinal syrups have issued a recall on over 2 million units Jan. 31.

The products in question are Triaminic Syrups, Theraflu Warming Relief Syrups and about 20 others of the same type. Reason behind the product recall is the supposed child-resistant caps.

There were 12 reports of children who were able to unscrew the caps, and four reports of ingestion. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission in the United States, one incident sought medical attention.

Patrons affected by the recall can get a repair or a refund.

Read the press release in full here.


Consumer Contact:
Novartis Consumer Healthcare toll-free at (866) 553-6742 from 8 a.m. to midnight ET, Monday through Saturday, or online at www.novartisOTC.com for more information.