New Fully Automated Taping From PSI!
Thursday, November 4, 2010 at 01:34PM Practical Systems, Inc. (PSI) is proud to introduce their new ASTA Handling System. This handling system combines PSI’s Automated Surface Tape Applicator (ASTA) with conveyors and robotics to completely automate the process of taping lenses. It is a simple unit that is easy to install and operate and can be incorporated into a lab’s existing conveyor belt system.
The ASTA Handling System is easy to use. Simply place the job trays and lenses on the conveyor where
they are transported into the handling system. Robotic arms place the lenses into the ASTA machine where the lenses are taped. When the ASTA is finished taping, robotics remove the lenses and place them back into the job tray where the conveyor belt takes them down the line to the next station.
Lenses are taped two at a time for a speed of up to 400 lenses an hour. Besides its speed, one of the best features of the ASTA Handling System is its modular design. The ASTA sits in the back of the unit on a swinging door giving it the flexibility to be operated manually off-line if necessary. It also makes it extremely easy for maintenance and tape replacement.
ASTA Handling Systems are manufactured to customer specifications based on left or right loading of the tray, job tray type and the placement of the lenses in the tray. Labs have the option of purchasing the unit with an ASTA utilizing standard cutter blades or new hot knife technology. The hot knife will reduce blade replacements and offers a cleaner cut with less debris. This unit also accommodates the polycarbonate lens gate without adjustments and tapes with no overhang. ASTA Handling systems arrive completely assembled and require standard air and 110V electrical hookups.
Any type of tape, with or with out liners, can be used in the system. PSI recommends the use of their new double roll Blue or Green Len Saver tapes to reduce the number of tape roll replacements during the day.
PSI has been the exclusive distributor of the ASTA in the U.S., Mexico and South and Central America since 2003. Please contact PSI at 800-237-8154 or visit www.LookToPSI.com for more information.