The automatic mug wrap system was designed to wrap 11 & 15 oz. mugs commonly used today.
- Estimated to wrap 15+ mugs per minute
- Operators are needed for placing mugs on and off of the indexing conveyor
- Robotic options are available for loading and unloading
- Mug handle straightening mechanism
- Indexing mug conveyor
- Print & apply labeling system for matching bottom barcode application
- Demand friction feeder for feeding sublimation sheets
- Industrial tape dispenser x 2
- Sublimation sheet barcode reader with inline sheet reject
- Sheet tape application & mug wrapping mechanism
- Sublimation sheet and P&A label barcode match verification system with in-line mug reject
- Programmable logic controller (PLC)
SMW Automated Mug Wrap System 2.0 by Dartronics, Inc.
SMW Auto Mug Wrap System — Process Overview
- Mug Feeding & Handle Alignment
Unwrapped mugs are conveyed through an indexing system, where a handle-straightening mechanism ensures each handle is perfectly aligned before wrapping. - Precise Placement
A servo-driven linear slide picks up each mug and places it exactly into the wrap station for consistent positioning. - Sublimation Sheet Handling & Verification
Pre-printed, pre-cut sublimation sheets for both 11 oz and 15 oz mugs travel along a secondary indexing conveyor. Each sheet’s barcode is scanned and cross-checked with the order. If a barcode is unreadable or the order is canceled, the sheet is rejected and replaced automatically—ensuring only the correct materials proceed. - Rapid Size Changeover
The system supports fast transitions between different mug sizes to minimize downtime. - Reverse Placement Detection
If a mug is placed backwards on the infeed conveyor, the system detects it. Once corrected, the operator resumes the process via a touchscreen prompt. - Barcode Matching for Traceability
Verified sheets are matched with barcode labels applied to the bottom of each mug, enabling full end-to-end traceability. - Secure Wrapping with Tape
Small pieces of tape are applied to the sublimation sheet before wrapping. As the sheet wraps tightly, the tape secures the wrap at the handle, producing a crisp, stable finish. - Operational Requirements
The PLC-controlled system operates on standard 110 V power and requires just 3–5 CFM of plant air. - High-Speed Performance
The system runs at over 15 mugs per minute, delivering consistent, high-quality packaging while minimizing manual labor.
- Electrical requirements: 110 VAC, 60 Hz, 5 Amps
- Air requirements: 80 PSI at 2 CFM
