Columbia/Okura has expanded its value-added customer-service program to include a state-of-the-art facility designed specifically for training, testing and palletizing demonstrations.

This new dedicated facility includes a fully operational robotic palletizing system, providing Columbia/Okura customers with hands-on training in a simulated manufacturing environment.  With the goal of providing the best possible level of service, this facility provides machine operators with opportunities to gain experience and raise their “comfort levels” for working with the palletizers in their own plants.  Training is tailored to specific customer needs based on the products they produce and the Columbia/Okura robot that they use.  In order for the facility to be prepared for the customer needs it includes an assortment of end effectors, a vacuum technology center, video recording aids, teleconferencing capabilities, and a computer projection machine for group training. Columbia/Okura’s customer service program doesn’t end at the facility but continues through an on-line troubleshooting guide that provides fast and easy-to-use reference for specific production questions.

Another important feature of Columbia/Okura’s demo facility is quick-turnaround palletizing demonstrations for prospective customers’ products, with the capability to test and video-record the handling of specific products, cases, bags and other packaging configurations. An interested company can simply ship a pallet-load of product directly to the Columbia/Okura facility.  There, operators configure the robot and end effectors, run the palletizing process, and record the operation.  The video segment is transferred to tape or CD for delivery to the prospective customer either through mail or e-mail.

The fully operational facility also provides opportunities for Columbia/Okura to research and develop new machinery and tools designed to meet expanding industry demands.