This week Copal launches the C2 Container Unloader. With this machine mixed containers and products other than cardboard boxes (such as jute and paper bags) can be automatically unloaded without any physical exertion. So this machine saves a lot of time and physical effort.
After unloading, the cargo is directly transported to storage by means of an automatically extendible conveyor belt. Loading and unloading containers normally costs a lot of time and manpower and therefore a lot of money too. Furthermore there are stringent Health & Safety regulations (Working Conditions Act) to prevent overloading and permanent injury of employees. The C2 not only provides a solution in this regard, but also ensures faster and more efficient production and turnaround times.
Operation & automation
Special software has been developed for the Container Unloader. Repetitive actions have been highly automated. Height differences between the loading platform, any dock levellers and the warehouse floor are automatically corrected for by lifting the frame of the C2 system. The machine continuously measures distances in the available space, thereby preventing damage. The operator can control the system using two joysticks while seated in a comfortable seat. He can monitor the whole process on a screen. The C2 is an intelligent machine, is solidly built and requires little maintenance. The machine can be connected to a warehouse management system. This means the C2 can be used in any environment.
Topgripper & pullplate
The C2 can be fitted with various types of grippers, which can pick up and deal with various sorts of goods, placing them on the roller conveyor with a smooth motion. The topgripper picks up the boxes from the top side with height-correcting suction pad arms. For the top row of boxes, immediately under the container's roof, the topgripper uses additional horizontally placed suction pads, and then places the boxes on the roller conveyor. A second version has also been developed and patented, the so-called pullplate, which supports the cartons on the underside. The pullplate is used for heavy and fragile goods. The C2 can be fitted with either system.
Technical data and extra options
The machine is 7 metres long, 2.3 metres wide and 2.25 metres tall. The system can be extended with various extra options such as bar code scanning, and product labelling and weighing. Switching the system between docks can be done by a transverse movement of the C2. The C2 system also produces little noise.
Innovations in the Copal Container Unloader C2 have been registered in patents and the machine is CE and Tüv certified.
Wim Bosman (72), former owner/CEO of the Wim Bosman Group, a globally operating logistics service provider, is involved with Copal as major shareholder and investor.
Copal Handling Systems
Goorsestraat 9
7041 GA ’s-Heerenberg
The Netherlands
info@copalgroup.com