An industrial robot case packer is a type of robotic system used in manufacturing and packaging processes to automate the task of packing products into cases or boxes. It is commonly employed in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and logistics.
Here's an overview of how an industrial robot case packer typically works:
1. Product feeding: The robot case packer receives products from a conveyor belt or another automated system. These products can be in various forms such as bottles, cans, bags, or cartons.
2. Case or box supply: Empty cases or boxes are supplied to the robot packing station, either manually or through an automated system. The cases are usually stacked and ready for the robot to access.
3. Pick and place: The robot uses its end effector, typically a gripper or vacuum-based system, to pick up individual products from the feeding system and place them into the corresponding locations within the open case or box. The robot's programming ensures precise positioning and gentle handling of the products to prevent damage.
4. Layer formation: Once a layer of products is placed in the case, the robot may be programmed to perform specific actions to create an organized and stable layer. This can involve arranging the products in a particular pattern or orientation to optimize space utilization and ensure product integrity.
5. Case closure: After completing a layer, the robot may proceed to close and seal the case using adhesive, tape, or other closure mechanisms. It can also insert dividers or inserts if necessary to provide additional support or separation between products.
6. Case removal: Once the case is sealed, the robot places it onto a conveyor or pallet for further transportation or storage. It may stack multiple cases or palletize them according to predefined patterns.
Key advantages of using an industrial robot case packer include increased speed and efficiency, improved accuracy and consistency, reduced labor costs, and enhanced worker safety by automating repetitive and physically demanding tasks. These robotic systems can be customized and integrated into existing production lines to meet specific packaging requirements.
It's important to note that the exact configuration and capabilities of an industrial robot case packer can vary depending on the specific application and manufacturer.