Europlacer's unique range of 'truly' intelligent tape, stick and tray feeders are central to its ability to provide such unrivalled flexibility and productivity.

Intelligent feeders store data about the component type loaded and communicate with the machine to maximise placement efficiency and avoid faulty configuration. Capable of being programmed and replenished in 'stand-alone' mode, the feeders can be loaded to the machine whilst it is running. If a program requires more component types than can be loaded on the machine during initial set-up, additional components can be prepared and introduced individually or by changing a complete feeder trolley.

Each feeder is equipped with two indicator lamps to facilitate machine control, fault finding and to indicate various states of activity. Feeder intelligence allows the operator to make fine adjustments via a hand held micro-terminal, including position choice, item bar-coding and placement modifications.

In summary, Europlacer's feeders:

• Recognise and count their components
• Indicate their position to the machine
• Are interchangeable during production
• Can be used on passive trolleys

In practise these features help to maximise productivity.

In a multi-product environment, machine/feeder flexibility is a critical factor influencing productivity. Changeover is dramatically simplified and can be performed much faster. Cost per placement is reduced, payback periods are shortened and profitability is improved.

Intelligent feeders reduce operator errors, which in turn helps to cut waste, increase uptime and make quality objectives more achievable. Also operator skill requirement is minimised leading to lower staffing costs.

The feeder technology and supporting software can facilitate and integrate with modern manufacturing environments (e.g. MRP, JIT, lean manufacturing, CIM, etc.), ultimately shortening lead times, improving inventory management and reducing working capital requirements.