Our new Phi SeriesTM of applicators build on the technology found in our highly successful PL SeriesTM of Applicators. Phi SeriesTM Applicators, like the PL SeriesTM of Applicators, are highly reliable and accurate placement systems for adhesive components but with advanced functions and sophistication for customers who require higher levels of functional performance and connectivity.

Advanced features of the Phi Series TMApplicator include enhanced functionality of our standard feeder technology:

• Peel bar motion is now close loop monitored and controlled, the Phi SeriesTM Applicator always knows the position of the peel bar through encoder feedback. This enables several enhancements to operations including:
• the ability to recover from e-stop or other cycle stoppages without loss of components or intervention of operators.
• Smarter tracking of adhesive components on the liner
• Options to implement ‘predictive’ component sensing on liner
• Integrated safe motion functionality (Safe Torque Off (STO))

High-speed Tamp options using servo motor control and absolute encoder position feedback. Available in one or two axis configurations, Phi Series TM tamps use industry-standard motors and actuators that are highly reliable and robust for long-term usage. Phi Series Tamps include or can be augmented with:

• High-speed movements in two axes
• Encoder closed-loop position feedback and control
• Optional Load/Force cells for precision force moves
• Optional Thermal/Heater controls for applications that require heated vacuum chucks
• Optional third X-Axis of motion
• Optional Splice Detection
• Integrated safe motion functionality (Safe Torque Off, Safe Limited Position, Safe Limited Speed…)

Optional Vision Integration and Reject Collection Platen adds functionality to inspect components before they are applied to product. Inspection can include dimensional, content, or other quality checks.

• For labels with printed features vision inspection can confirm barcode content and quality or human readable content or quality
• For die-cut components inspections can confirm proper position prior to pickup and/or that features are present and dimensions are correct
• Components that are rejected can be handled without disrupting the system or requiring operator intervention by removing the component from the liner at the peel position and then placing the component back onto the liner downstream at the reject platen so that all* rejected parts are collected in the spent liner

Industry 4.0 Features – At NSI we emphasize Industry 4.0 by increasing and strengthening the ‘interconnectivity’ component of our systems via:

• (M2M) machine-to-machine communications
• Cloud connectivity options including IoT communications through MQTT protocol
• Data Transfer/Sharing

Standard M2M Interconnectivity includes options for Ethernet TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, OPC UA, or discrete I/O control options. In addition to these protocols we have a wide range of options for interaction and communication with other systems if required.

Cloud Connectivity ** options create a host of opportunities including:

• Remote support and maintenance – NSI engineers can connect remotely to your systems to provide updates, troubleshoot ongoing issues, review system messages, perform analytics, and more
• Remote equipment status and info – when properly configured it will be possible for customer personnel to check status of the equipment remotely
• Process Data Collection – the SA SeriesTM Applicator control systems have the ability to collect significant amounts of performance data around details such as speeds, positions, temperatures, forces, cycle time, cycle counts, and more
• Process Data Sharing – the SA SeriesTM Applicator control system can share process data using various methods including OPC/UA

Onboard Intelligence and Analytics – In the future our systems will continue to gain intelligence to be able to diagnose themselves and advise if performance is declining or component failures are anticipated. Onboad analytical tools are available and growing in their usage and effectiveness and at NSI we plan to harness those tools.

The Phi SeriesTM Applicators with their combination of performance, intelligence, connectivity, modularity, and expansion options are the Super ApplicatorTM !

* Operator intervention may be required if a reject component is damaged or misshaped such that the vacuum head cannot confirm presence of the part when attempting to handle it

** Customer must allow remote connections to the Phi Series TM unit.

PHI100r Feeder

The Phi100r Feeder is the base unit of the Phi Series systems. It is the robot mode unit for integration with external automation.

For more information about the Phi100r Feeder CLICK HERE.