HEGLA Introduces New V-H 150 Seculift For Smart Factories And Secure Glass Handling

The V-H suction device is user-friendly and has exceptionally high safety standards included for day-to-day use on cutting systems, furnaces, and laminating lines. 

As an energy-saving concept the entire system is continuously monitored during a work cycle by a built-in safety controller. The weight of the glass is measured the moment it is lifted and if too heavy for the number of active suction cups then a vacuum will not be generated. The operator will automatically hear a distinctive warning will receive visual on screen information.

The risk of glass becoming detached during transit has also been eliminated as both of the operator’s hands are required to set the glass down. 

Safety check function

The V-H 150 Seculift provides maximum safety on the factory floor with the system programmed to prompt operators to complete a function test every eight hours, or at a preferred custom-defined interval. Using a dedicated user interface, prompts are given to initiate each step of the process on screen with results highlighted on completion. Once finished successfully, the machine then begins a countdown for when the next test is due. Should the device fail it will be automatically locked to prevent any accidents.

Working life with the V-H 150 Seculift has been made as simple as possible, with many new aspects incorporated into its design. 

To ensure glass is lifted correctly, particularly horizontal panes, an optional laser marker can be incorporated. Additionally, sturdy gripping positions are essential to move glass weights of up to 150 kg. Ergonomic joysticks have been designed to control all the required functions suction pick-up, lifting and lowering, tilting, as well as release. An intuitive graphic display provides all important information to the operator such as which suction cups are active, the current supply pressure, the weight of the glass, as well as details on any alarms. 

A clear view of the glass and sturdy gripping positions were essential in the concept design, with any working parts removed from the operator’s field of vision to provide a good view of the work area. 

Optimising compressed air was an important element to the V-H 150’s design. This modern concept includes valves which shut off automatically when the required vacuum level is achieved. This element saves more than 75% on compressed air used under normal operating conditions and provides noiseless movement. 

Improved smart communications

Conventional lifting devices provide little information regarding the history of use and technical condition. HEGLA’S V-H 150 Seculift has a ‘Smart’ IoT networking option which can supply details on its current condition, daily load cycles, potential problems as well as safety test function results to a company’s network.

In addition, HEGLA’s dedicated Shopfloor Assistant app is a mobile solution that gives access to the V-H 150’s information details at any time. Furthermore, the app can document your entire machine fleet and can easily integrate information from any machine on the production floor.

All necessary training and maintenance documentation is also included. By clicking on the HEGLA app or scanning the V-H 150 QR code all the data and documents will appear on screen.

HEGLA Group Managing Director, Bernhard Hötger, commented “When it came to developing the V-H 150 Seculift, we took a look at the existing glass handling process as a whole and completely rethought it. Particular attention was paid to providing maximum safety alongside practical, easy use, minimal compressed air consumption, and simple integration into the digital world.

This has all been made possible by the great minds of Dr. Markus Schoisswohl and his team at the HEGLA New Technology centre, a think-tank in the heart of Paderborn, Germany.”

Steve Goble, Managing Director HEGLA UK comments, “This new product represents another step forward in the digitalisation of modern glass factories. The ideas built into this device will influence our entire product portfolio as it continues to evolve and provide the best solutions for glass processors in today’s market.”

For more information on the new HEGLA machinery and furnaces contact Steve Goble or Paul Gibbs on: 0330 124 5759