Allpax

Basket Tracking Overview

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• Tracks Retort Baskets throughout the ABRS [automated batch retort] system
• Uses standard proximity and photo cell sensors to detect basket position
• Runs on standard Personal Computer, and integrates with Allen-Bradley and Modicon PLC's, and is available with PC-Based Control
• Identifies raw product baskets, sterilized product baskets and deviation baskets.
• Automatically puts Deviation Baskets on hold
• Multi-Level Security System
• Same-Day, On-Line System and Software Support

The Basket Tracking Module

VISUAL STATUS - REAL TIME

The Basket Tracking module of the MONITOR system was developed specifically to augment the Allpax ABRS system. The approach used by our process specialists in designing the Basket Tracker was to provide retort operators, retort room supervisors and Quality Assurance personnel with real-time, visual information that could be used for decision making. With a quick glance, plant personnel are immediately updated as to the status and condition of every basket in the retort room system.

BASKET PERSONALITY

As a basket is filled with product at the loader, it takes on a "personality," by having information allocated to the basket. The product code that is contained in the basket, quantity of containers in the basket, production code assigned to the batch, as well as other information that is recorded and tracked as the basket moves toward the retort for processing.

Because the product is unprocessed, it is tagged with a blue color. During retort processing, the basket personality retains the uncooked (blue) status until an adequate sterilization process has been completed by the Allpax PLC controlling the retort. After an adequate sterilization process, the personality of the basket changes to a green (ok-to-unload) status and is available to be moved by the Allpax shuttle or drone. If a process deviation occurs, the basket personality identifies the product basket with a red color, and all automatic movement of the basket ceases and the retort is locked by the system until the Quality Assurance department clears the batch for unloading.

BASKET TRACKING EVENT LOGS

MONITOR creates logs that are sent to the host computer log database for every significant event in the system. Every alarm, 4170 every log-in, and every basket change created through the supervisor's entry screen is recorded to the log database. This information is stored and printed on request.

For More Information on the Basket Tracking