ROBOTIC INSPECTION INTRODUCED

The F.R. Drake Company introduced robotic inspection to the hot dog loading industry at the Worldwide Food Expo ’09 in Chicago. The robotic system, named “ETI”, received an enthusiastic response and was a popular exhibit.

The acronym gives a nod to the future elimination of human inspection prior to packaging, which is currently the standard practice. The new vision system surpasses previous technology in its ability to detect defects and replace them. As a result, productivity is increased due to potential speeds of operation and the reduction of error. Sanitation concerns will be greatly diminished without human contact in this portion of the packaging line for RTE foods. The robotic system is IP 69K certified and designed to be cleaned according to industrial methods.

George Reed , Vice President of Drake Engineering-----“ETI brings an unprecedented level of high efficiency loading and improved sanitary design to hot dog loading. The results are increased throughput and at the same time lower operating costs due to reduced headcount on the line.”

Drake Engineering holds 17 patents to date for the automatic loading of specialty food products. We have maintained a leading edge globally with continual research and development. The introduction of ETI will ensure our goal to exceed packaging line demands in 2010 is met.

 
   
 

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ASK THE EXPERTS

ASK THE EXPERTS

ASK THE EXPERTS

 

  

 

How do I prevent migration of cleaning chemicals into servo cable connectors leading to unwanted corrosion and cable failure?

You will need these materials:

1. Dielectric grease. This grease works well for displacing moisture in Servo power and feedback cables as well as proximity switch cables. Drake #00-165 (0.33 oz tube) Larger tube sizes available. (#00-166)

2. Self Amalgamating Tape or self bonding tape. Amalgamating tape has no adhesive side and needs to be stretched during application to create a bond with itself. Three (3) pieces cut into 3" strips are required for each connector. Drake #00-156 (10' roll)

 

  
 

 

Procedure:

1. Always remove and lock out power to the loader before disconnecting any servo cables. Removing the servo motor power cable when energized can cause serious injury as well as permanent damage to the motor and cable.

2. Clean and thoroughly dry the cable connectors inside and out. Any corrosion left inside the connector will continue to progress if not removed.

3. Add Dielectric Grease. Add a generous amount of dielectric grease to both male and female sides of the connector ensuring all connector pins are coated with grease.

4. Connect and tape one cable at a time. Clean any excess grease off of the exterior of the connector before taping.

5. Tape the connector. Beginning at the center, stretch and wrap a 3” piece of self amalgamating tape around the center of the connector. Stretching the tape against itself activates the bonding procedure. The tape will provide a bond in less than one minute. To help ensure a watertight seal, stretch the tape into the groove behind the cap ring of the connector.

6. Continue taping. Tape the motor side of the connector ensuring the tape is completely next to the motor connector body. No part of the motor side of the connector should be visible. Stretch the tape pulling it into the groove between the cable connector and the motor connector.

7. Finish taping. Finish by taping the other side of the cable connector. Be sure to stretch the tape to activate the bonding.

8. Repeat procedure. Repeat procedure with the remaining servo cable connectors. Note: the tape can be easily removed by carefully cutting with a knife.

If you have a problem creating a seal with the tape, remove the tape and begin the procedure again with a fresh piece of tape. If the tape or cable is removed for any reason the connector should be re-sealed. Thoroughly clean and repack the connector with new grease and re-tape using the procedure above.

 
                     
   

 

 

 

 

 

THE FR DRAKE SHIPPING &

RECEIVING DEPARTMENT

 

 

 

 

If you need spare parts, just give us a call

Rest assured, no doubt that Drake has it all

We’ll get your order to you prompt and stress free

To ensure your loaders operate smoothly

E.B., W.A., and Kyle take pride in what we do

Put your faith in us and all of our crew

So enjoy your holiday and take a rest

Because you’re in the hands of the very best

 

    
                     
                 
         
       

 

"Felony Franks"

A restaurant in Chicago is making news with its theme. The owner, Jim Andrews, believes in giving convicted felons a second chance. The hot dog stand is staffed with former convicts and is taking the idea a step further by offering servings of the misdemeanor wiener and the probation hamburger. Hungry patrons are asked, “Are you ready to plead your case?” as they approach the counter with orders. A hot dog in a prison uniform with a ball and chain is the featured logo. Both support and criticism has been voiced in the community over the endeavor.