NEW LOW COST COUNTING SCALE FEATURES PATENTED TECHNOLOGY FOR GREATER ACCURACY.

Fairmont, MN–October 26, 2001–Weigh-Tronix, Inc. has introduced a new, low cost counting scale designed with a patented technology that delivers outstanding accuracy. The Weigh-Tronix model PC-220 Counting Scale features patented high-resolution vibrating beam technology. This digital innovation provides display resolution of 1:30,000, which is vastly superior to similarly-priced scales that incorporate standard load cells. With an internal resolution of 1:1.5 million parts, the PC-220 delivers very accurate counts along with a very affordable price.

The PC-220 is available in both "lb" and "kg" versions, each in three different weight capacities (15 lb, 30 lb, and 60 lb, as well as 6kg, 15 kg, and 30 kg). A durable membrane keypad, with audible and tactile feedback, lets you enter the count by a pre-determined sample size, by keypad entry, or by piece weight entry. Other features include reverse sampling, which determines counts without emptying the container, a highly-visible seven digit backlit LCD display, and an audible alarm to alert users to when a pre-determined count has been reached. The PC-220 stores piece weights and tare weights for up to 32 different parts, and seven "hotshot" keys lets users quickly recall piece weights of the most commonly counted parts. A single accumulator tracks total count and the number of transactions.

Weigh-Tronix is a pioneer in the design and manufacture of innovative precision electronic weighing devices and control systems. For further information, contact: Weigh-Tronix, Inc., 1000 Armstrong Drive, Fairmont, MN 56031. Phone: 507-238-8253. Fax: 507-238-8258. email: industrial@weigh-tronix.com www.wtxweb.com

The built-in rechargeable battery pack with up to 200 hours of continuous use not only monitors the battery life, but also recharges the battery while the scale is in operation insuring no unexpected "down time."

Preset count and weight limits can be set to alert the operator that a quantity or desired weight has been achieved. The is an excellent feature for packaging of parts and products.

With 15,000 weight divisions, the CS series is capable of counting the smallest of parts. The CS series includes memory accumulators to keep total piece count and weight from the last time the memory was cleared. This feature is great for keeping a running total on specific parts and products.

The CS scale packaging can be re-used when storing or transferring the scale. A vinyl dust and debris cover protects the CS scale from all of the dirt that can accumulate over long term use.

CS Series Features

• Rechargeable battery pack with up to 200 hours of continuous use
• Sleep mode for extended battery life
• Easy-to-read, backlit LCD display
• Memory key to accumulate total piece count and weight
• Preset feature for setting weight and quantity limits

How do I reduce my parts handling time? The next step is closer and easier than you can imagine. The industry has embraced in-line stress relieving to condense spring production time, but it still leaves the burden of additional handling after the parts exit the oven. Parts catching machines are the next wave of Spring and Wire Forming Industry "must-haves" for faster turnaround time.

To some this new system will seem frivolous and irrelevant to the status quo. To others, they will see the immediate benefits: eliminating 100% sorts, running dark, faster counting and packaging time, saving operator time, lower production costs, automated work cells with machine shut-off, and a capital expense that pays for itself in less than a year's time. Once all the benefits are put on the table the next question is, "what should I look for in a parts catching, counting, sorting, or weighing system?"

Overview of Operation… A majority of parts catchers and handlers use a carousel or platter to rotate parts to the next empty container. Others use a rotating chute to disperse parts around a semi-circle of various containers. The parts (springs, wire forms, etc.) are segregated into a number of different containers: buckets, baskets, (deli) cups, bins, and boxes. Once a set number of parts are placed into a their respective containers by either count, time, or weight, the carousel or rotating chute moves to the next empty container. The size of the part and container determine the duration a machine can run without an operator standing guard. Your parts catcher should come equipped with the capability to interface with your coiling equipment and free length gauges to automate your production process.

Operation Options… The parts catchers and counters should be able to collect their data, the count, from a variety of sources. Testing gauges located on the coilers or wire formers that have an output for count can provide the data. A read switch affixed to the cam shaft of the coiler (i.e. cut-off arm) or on any rotating part that turns once per cycle can also process the count. The read switch is typically affixed with a magnet to the coiler. Any contact closure or signal mechanism coming from the coiler or test gauge can serve as the trigger for the count as well. Another option is to run the parts catcher using a time-based trigger that ignores a hard count and relies solely on the basis that "X" parts should fill up "Y" containers in "Z" amount of time. Your parts catcher should also be able to run continuous so that an operator can empty the containers once they are filled and keep the production cycle going. There are a number of ways to process the hard count for the parts and depending on your situation you might choose to use a number of them throughout your plant.

Features to look for/Must Haves… In order to make this shift in production worthwhile the system needs to be straightforward. At the end of the day the work cell containing the count unit is only as efficient as the operator attached to it. Unintelligible controllers with small buttons and fancy engineering language only leave the operator with a headache. A decent size display with adequate button sizing or a touch panel system will ensure ease of operation. Your new system should have the capability to manage parts by bin count, overall count, continuous operation, and time. There is not a universal container that will work with every part out there. Make sure to size your buckets, boxes, or bins to suit your operation. Most parts counters and handlers have many different options available.

Your parts catcher should be able to turn the coiler off after the job is done via a contact closure that takes either a normally open or normally closed contact. If you use a free length gauge or equivalent the parts catcher should be able to interface with the equipment. Usually, the gauges will have a reject (bad) function that will not count bad parts. The parts catcher should be able to synchronize with an output on the gauge and not count the rejected part. There should also be a temporary belt shut-off function, so parts will not drop while the carousel is turning and cause a mess on the floor. If you use a rotating chute to catch and distribute the parts it must have a gate that closes while the chute rotates to the next box.

Advantages… By incorporating a catching and counting system into your current production schedule you will be able to eliminate 100% sorts. Have you ever scrapped 1,000, 10,000, even 100,000 parts because you realized too late in the game that you were out of tolerance? Using a parts catching system with segregated containers will enable you go to back bin by bin and locate the relative bin where the part got out of line. Instead of wasting countless parts, you will now be able to locate the trouble spots and make the necessary adjustments to keep your waste level down.

Running dark or with a light crew for production is now at your fingertips. Using a parts catcher in your work cell will help diminish a train wreck come Monday morning. Your catching and counting system should be able to help run your operation from start to finish. Once you have set the number of parts per bin and the total number of bins for your job into the machine you can safely start up your process and watch or not watch it run till completion.

You will be able to save operator time, inspection time, counting time, weighing time, and packaging time with a parts catcher. The operators will find it much easier to handle multiple machines in a given work day and have additional time to help inspect and package their jobs.

Conclusion

Parts counting and catching systems have created that extra edge needed to stay competitive. It was not too long ago that in-line ovens went through the same breakthrough period, and now most companies could not survive without them. Parts catchers will prove themselves worthy with the money they save you. Not only will you be able to streamline your operation you will be able to reduce waste, speed up job time, and run dark. It only takes a slight manipulation to how you currently run production to use parts catchers and you will save yourself countless amounts of time, money, and energy.

Capable of counting and batching at speeds up to 2,500 packages per hour, this vibratory counter infeed system is engineered with state-of-the-art technology for high-accuracy counting productivity.

When used in conjunction with the Autobag AB 180™ bagging system, a bulk supply of product is driven to a single-flow that is automatically counted and batched to a pre-set quantity. The individual batch of product is then funneled to a pre-opened poly bag, sealed and dispensed, while another bag is presented for loading.

Speed and accuracy are increased with the Overcount Discharge Funnel. As the final part passes through the detection eye, a diverting door is activated. Diverted parts are then discharged to an isolated bin, so as not to enter the bag as an overcount.

Utilizing the very latest technology, the Autobag Accu-Count 200 is capable of detecting product from .125" in diameter, .125" to 2.5" in length and up to 2" wide. The system is available with multiple bowl configurations, allowing the flexibility to run different part variations.

DeviceNet communications capabilities enable simple, fast and reliable integration of the Accu-Count to Autobag baggers and

Kit-Veyor® systems. Technology advancements include comprehensive system diagnostics from the bagger's AutoTouch™ Control Screen, and automatic sequencing in Kit-Veyor kit packaging operations. The operator-friendly touchscreen also provides access to job set-up and recall, on-board system diagnostics, and real-time productivity data.

Using system-matched Autobag pre-opened bags-on-a-roll, the Accu-Count 200 offers a fast and effective counting and packing solution.

User Benefits:

• AutoTouch Control Screen provides easy access to job storage, system diagnostics and Individual Part Profiling for quick set-up and ease of operation
• The combined Accu-Count 200 & AB 180 bagger configuration has a small footprint – approximately 3' x 5' – saving valuable floor space
• High-accuracy is ensured with the Overcount Discharge diverting funnel, which is activated when the final part passes through the detection eye
• Part Orientation Funnels provide enhanced control of the part as it falls from the bowl through the detection eye, improving speed and accuracy
• Can be integrated with multiple counters and the Autobag Kit-Veyor to provide integrated, efficient packaging of kits and sub-assemblies
• DeviceNet communications platform improves overall reliability and provides greater system control in multi-counter kit packaging operations
• Modular Replace-n-Repair™ components ensure maximum uptime

Typical Applications:

• Automotive & appliance parts
• Hardware & DIY
• Electrical & electronic parts
• Fasteners & connectors
• Plumbing & heating
• Hobby & crafts
• Jewelry & novelty items
• Cosmetics & beauty aids
• Disposable health care products

The Sigma™ EX Series offers versatility and dependability with rugged counting scales designed for general industrial use.

VERSATILE

These counting scales provide a full line of options and versions based on your needs. Counting functions include stored tare, unit weight selection, programmable sample size selection, and piece/activity accumulation. The large, dual displays are easily read, with audio and visual feedback, making the Sigma easy to use.

ACCURATE

These scales use state-of-the-art technology for accurate, repeatable results. Accurate samples are ensured with the Fairbanks exclusive AutoIntegrate™ feature. When combined with our High Resolution Sample Scales, the accuracy is up to 0.00002 lb. countable weight!

NO EXTERNAL POWER SOURCE NEEDED

There’s no need for power outlets with the Sigma Series battery-powered versions. You’ll get up to 800 hours of continuous battery life from just six D-cell batteries.

RUGGED

To protect your scale in punishing industrial applications, Sigma Counting Scales feature extra strong molded plastic housings, and rigid stainless steel platforms and weighing assemblies. Additional features include reinforced keypads, recessed battery compartments and spill covers.

AVAILABLE WITH THE FEATURES YOU NEED

Multiple platform capability, RS232C communication or basic counting functions are all available standard with our new flexible model configurations. The counting scales arrive pre-calibrated, programmed and fully operational. Popular models ship out on the same day, with 48-hour shipping on all other models.

Counting Devices, Inc. manufactures mechanical, multi, tally and diff counters for laboratory, industrial, transit uses and more. Anywhere counts are critical and anywhere you do this...Counting Devices, Inc. can help!!

From single item counts to 15 Counter keys and totalizer which carries totals to 999. Zero clearance knobs left and right. Bell signals each 100 key strokes for direct percentage reading of cell types counted. For more precise counts continue to 200 and 300 totalizer readings, dividing indivdual counters totals by 2 and 3 for percentage of each cell type counted. Mark cells counted on tabs provided.