Rockwell Automation Arena Packaging Users Guide - Manual (Page 33)

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Machine modules may not be directly linked to other machine modules. Use a Machine
Link module to connect two machines directly together (i.e., there is a negligible accumu-
lator between the machines).
Assembly Machines. A maximum of 10 entry lines may be specified for the Assembly
Machine type. Note that the first entry line always defines the outbound product name.
For example, if units from the first entry line have the product name “bottles,” and units
from the second entry line have the product name “caps,” the product name for the
assembled units is “bottles.”
Filling Machines. For Filling Machines, the container input line always defines the
outbound product name.
The module connected to the fluid input line of a Filling Machine must be a Tank module
from either the Packaging or Flow Process panel. The Flow Process Tank module is
recommended when modeling advanced tank-related logic such as semi-continuous batch
processes feeding a high-speed packaging line.
The module connected to the container input line of a Filling Machine must be a
Conveyor or Machine Link module.
If using a filling machine, note that all volumetric data in the model, such as tank capaci-
ties, valve maximum rates, and container volumes, must be specified in the same units of
measure (e.g., gallons, liters, fluid ounces, etc.).
Conveyor Machines. A Conveyor Machine is a non-accumulating conveyor. You may
specify the run parameters of the conveyor in two ways. If the units on the conveyor
always travel in single file, then you may specify the machine Type as “Conveyor
Machine (Single File)” and directly specify the nominal run speed of the machine and its
capacity. Or, specify the machine Type as simply “Conveyor Machine” and enter the
velocity, length, width, and unit density parameters for the conveyor.
Machine Link (MLink) module
D ESCRIPTION
The Machine Link (ML) module may be used to connect two Machine modules directly.
Use this module if there is no buffer between the machines. If accumulation can occur
between the machines, then use the Conveyor module to model the accumulator.
A Machine Link module may only be connected to Machine modules. If your logic requires
that two non-Machine modules be connected without a buffer in between, then use a
Conveyor module. Define the Nominal Velocity to a high rate (e.g., 100,000 feet/min) and
the Length, Width, and Unit Density so the conveyor capacity is 1 unit. This approach
models a negligible buffer.