Product • 14.03.2008

New WA series fully-integrated weigh-wrap-label system

A new in-store pre-packing system from Avery Berkel provides a totally integrated solution for weighing, wrapping and labelling. The new WA series uses advanced image capture and processing techniques to cut operator time by up to 30% and reduce wrapping film costs by 25%.

Typical food pre-packing systems used in retail outlets are assembled with a scale and label printer from one manufacturer and a wrapping machine from a second supplier. This always compromises performance and operation and there are questions over responsibility for maintenance, repair and fault finding. The separate units also take up more space, which could be used for storage or display.

The new WA series from Avery Berkel provides an integrated solution from a single source. The company, which is known for its weighing and labelling technology, has formed an alliance with a world leader in wrapping equipment to create the new WA and WS series of complete weigh, wrap and label systems.

This system uses the latest automation technology to improve productivity, reduce costs and is ergonomically designed to be easy for operators to use.

Improved Productivity
The 30% reduction in operator time required to pack the same number of items is achieved through the built–in image recognition CCD camera technology. This identifies each pack type and configures the entire weighing, wrapping and labelling operation, in advance of the pack arriving.
The system will weigh, wrap and label up to 35 packs per minute in real life in-store conditions, making it the fastest on the market.

Reduced film costs
Wrapping film costs are reduced by 25% by using two rolls with the machine automatically switching between them depending on the pack size and its shape, with no loss of throughput speed. Optimising the film stretch for the pack, so there are no wrinkles or distorted packs due to overstretching, improves presentation and customer appeal.

One Point of Contact
Announcing the new development, Peter Williams, Head of Retail Marketing at Avery Berkel, said:

“The WA series is a giant leap forward for pre-packing operations. Automating the process and minimising operator intervention speeds up production and allows staff to continue with more valuable tasks.

The camera recognition technology is leading edge for a retail application but is well proven and tested in other markets, so we are confident that the system will prove highly reliable and contribute to in store efficiency and better customer service.

Both the WA and WS series are a result of collaboration with a world leader in wrapping technology. Together we have provided the best integrated weigh, wrap and label solution available.

To provide a total solution for the retailer, there is only one point of contact for installation, maintenance and support. Avery Berkel has developed a network of fully-accredited engineers to service the complete system.”

Easy to Use
The operator programmes the WA series for the different food packs by using an intuitive colour touch screen interface. The screen also highlights any errors and takes the operator through a step-by-step process to resolve the problem and continue with the production run.

In addition, the operator does not need to orientate packs correctly, as the auto alignment function makes the operation faster and protects the pack and wrapper, minimising rejects.

The WA series occupies just one square metre of space making it the most compact integrated system available. All packs, film and labels are loaded from the front to minimise the floor space required to operate the system.

Management Information
The WA series can be installed with an Ethernet or RF (radio frequency) link to Avery Berkel’s MX100 software system, to provide an interface to the store and/or head office information system for management control and to download product and pricing information.

A traceability module provides the required information for accurate product labelling and to conform to legislation.

Different labelling options also improve presentation, with a choice of single, dual or top and bottom labellers

The new WA range is fully automatic, although Avery Berkel has also launched a semi automatic range – the WS series.