achievements
The buffer is an innovative robotic cell designed to handle the FIFO storage and retrieval of pharmaceutical products such as plastic single-dose units.
Seamlessly integrated into the heart of a packaging line, this module acts as a smart buffer with a 45-minute runtime.
By combining a through-feed conveyor system , two ultra-high-speed Delta robots, and a 6-axis robot for tray handling, it compensates for stoppages in the downstream machine without ever interrupting the upstream filling process.
Full automation of the temporary storage and retrieval of single-dose units, ensuring a FIFO flow.
Creation of a production storage system offering up to 45 minutes of runtime.
100% autonomous and secure management of empty and full thermoformed trays.
Loss of productivity (OEE): Prevents critical downtime on the filling line when the downstream case packer experiences a brief stoppage.
Traceability requirement: Strict adherence to the FIFO principle ensures that the first doses produced are the first to be reintroduced, thereby preventing any mixing of batches.
Manual handling: Eliminates the tedious, repetitive, and risky handling of storage trays by operators.
Normal flow (“Pass-through”): Single-dose units arrive on the conveyor. If the downstream machine is running, a diverter allows the products to pass through the station without intervention.
Storage Mode: In the event of a downstream stoppage, the first Delta robot picks up the preforms and places them precisely into an empty thermoformed tray.
Stacking: A 6-axis articulated robot, equipped with a bottom-gripper, picks up the full tray and places it on the shelf.
Logging: The system records the location and timestamp to ensure the order of output.
Clearance Mode: As soon as the downstream line restarts, the 6-axis robot moves the oldest full tray back to the unloading area.
Refeeding: A second Delta robot picks up the single-dose units from the tray and places them back onto the conveyor heading toward the cartoner, while the upstream machine continues to produce.
Rate: 200 shots per minute for packs of 5 doses (or 40 shots per minute for packs of 25).
Footprint: 5000 mm x 3000 mm.
Types of products processed: Plastic single-serve containers, strips, and preforms.
Accepted materials: Flexible pharmaceutical-grade plastic (PE/PP).
Storage capacity: approximately 45 minutes of output.
Compliance / Standards: Architecture designed to meet pharmaceutical requirements (cleanrooms, GMP, 21 CFR Part 11), secure HMI and connectivity (IXON VPN).
Pharmaceutical Industry (ophthalmology, pulmonology, oral solutions), Healthcare, and Sterile Cosmetics.
No, the Buffer is designed with a main conveyor that features a "pass-through" switching function. Under normal operating conditions, products pass through the cell at full speed toward the downstream machine without the need for the storage robots to intervene.
The process is fully automated. Once a tray has been emptied by the unloading robot, the 6-axis articulated robot picks it up and places it back in the stack of empty trays, ready to be used again by the loading robot. The system is 100% autonomous.
Yes, the entire cell is designed to meet pharmaceutical industry standards. The frame is protected by tempered glass doors, the robots feature a design that promotes cleanliness, and airflow and particle generation are controlled.
Contact UNISTA for a customized assessment.
