The aPriori Baseline VPEs contain multiple Carton Forming machines, Pack and Load machines, and Carton Sealing machines (both automated and semi-automated models). There is also a “manual” instance of each machine type, to accommodate workflows that perform aspects of the packaging process using manual labor rather than automated machinery.

In each case (Carton Forming, Pack and Load, and Carton Sealing), aPriori will select the first machine that can physically accommodate the component and its chosen package size, that is also capable of running at a desired rate (cartons per unit time) if you specify one. The manual machine instance automatically will be chosen when estimating the cost of packaging large components which exceed the size limits for the semi/automated machines.

If you feel another machine better represents the actual packaging environment, you can manually select a different machine using the Edit Machine Selection window which lists the properties of all machines available at the facility. For information on how to select a different machine, see the "Selecting a machine for an operation" section of the aPriori User Guide.