Robotics

Robotic systems provide automation for primary, secondary and tertiary packaging tasks. They use various robot types, including articulated robots, delta robots and cartesian robots, each suited to specific packaging requirements. Common applications at each packaging stage are below.

Primary packaging

Primary packaging directly encloses the product for protection, containment and retail presentation. Robotic tasks include:

• Pick and place: robots use vision systems and grippers to pick products from conveyors and place them into containers or trays.
• Filling: robots dispense liquid, powder or solid products into containers at consistent fill levels.
• Sealing and capping: robots seal and cap containers to prevent leaks or contamination.
• Labelling: robots apply labels to individual packages for accurate product identification.

Secondary packaging

Secondary packaging groups individual primary packages into larger units for shipping and retail display. Robotic tasks include:

• Case packing: robots arrange primary packages into shipping cases.
• Carton loading: robots load primary packages into cartons.
• Tray packing: robots assemble product trays and place primary packages inside for shrink wrapping or overwrapping.
• Bundle packing: robots create bundles of products such as bottles or cans.

Tertiary packaging

Tertiary packaging handles larger units such as cases or pallets for distribution and storage. Robotic tasks include:

• Palletising: robots stack and arrange cases or primary packages onto pallets.
• Depalletising: robots unload products from pallets for downstream processes.
• Stretch wrapping: robots apply stretch wrap to secure palletised loads.
• Unitising: robots assemble multiple pallets into larger units for warehousing and shipping.

Robotic systems in packaging support increased production speed, reduced labour costs, consistent product quality and the flexibility to adapt to changing packaging requirements and product lines.