How do automated packaging work?
Automated packaging refers to the use of advanced technology and machinery to procedure or process of packaging a product with minimal or no human assistance is carried out via different automated packaging system. Robotics, software algorithms and intricate machinery are used to streamline the entire packaging process -- from product handling and wrapping to boxing, sealing and labeling. The automated packaging technologies can range from semi-automated (machines assist human workers) to fully automated production lines (requiring minimal human intervention). These systems typically include multiple components such as conveyor belts, robotic arms, sensors and human-machine software interfaces that work in coordination to perform the packaging task. In the following sections, we will explore how the automated packing process, their importance in the modern consumer products, food, pharmaceuticals industry and the benefits they bring to table.
How automated packaging line processes
In the case of consumer products, food, pharmaceuticals industry, for example, the product is first packaged at the primary stage after production. The primary purpose of this stage is to separated and sealed merchandise, followed by the secondary packaging, the purpose of this stage is to prevent any product damage after wrapping the proudct with plastic or a buble wrap. Finally, the transit packaging is done to facilitate transportation and distribution to warehouses or customers. Let’s look at the different processes and how automation can increase the efficiency of your End of Line.
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Checking
By intergrating weighting equipment or barcodes scanner, we can automatically remove a product from the production line if a product does not meet the set parameters prior to entering the case packer. In this wy, deviating products will not go to the market.
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Carton Erecting / Handing / Closing
A flexible industrial robot is the centre of the carton erector which loads the products at high speed and with careful positioning into cartons. No manual work is required during this step. After the product is packed, it enters the carton sealing and transportation.
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Carton Labeling
Once the carton is closed, the next step is to label it. Labels includie information such as the product name, quantity, weight and any other relevant details to ensure that the product is delivered to the right destination.
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Palletizing and Stretch Wrapping
The last step concerns the automation of the physically demanding activities. A palletizer is an automatied material handling machine used to stack full boxes onto a pallet. Using automation to palletize packages has made loading, lifting and sorting packages faster and easier by taking over the heavy lifting, it is instead of worker manually transporting loads throughtout the facility. An automatic stretch wrapping machine use film to tightly palletized items in place. One of the benefits of automated stretch wrapper is its ability to be placed inline and wrap palletized loads accurately, and adding a comprehensive layer of protection.
Why the packaging process be automated?
The packaging process should be automated if you aim to increase efficiency, reduce errors, and manage high-volume production needs more effectively, as well as ensuring your product is picked,packed and perpared for delivery. After all individual packages have been made, the next step is to load the products into the desired box or crate. How to handle this part of your process ? Manual labour is an option. However, you will gain a lot of benefits from end-of-line automation packaging. We have listed 3 benefits for you.
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More effective labor utilization
In the past, final packaging process such as case packing,wrapping and pallletizing were very manual. By automating these tasks, your employees’ time can be utilized for more valuable activities. In addition, adding automation helps fill in any gaps in the process that may be labor-intensive.
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Improved quality and consistency
Automated packaigng systems are designed to optimize the packaging process,making it more efficient, consistent and reliable. By implementing the right automatied machinery, you can greatly imporve the output of yoru packaigng produciton, and accuracy of robtic automation leads to less product damage which results in fewer product replacement.
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Workplace accidents prevention and labor risks reduction
Packaging systmes always include safety systems to avoid possible accidents during packaging. One of the problem of the manual process is precisely the human error and accidents in the workplace that can occur when handling heavy loads (e.g. with manual palletizing) or mamually operate packaging machinery. (e.g. sealing motion in shrink wrapping that fails. ) In addition to workplace accidents, manual processes have a strong impact on worker’s health due to the handling of heavy loads and repeating the same work movements. Companies are faced with solving manual problems and avodiing accidents, automation can minimize these risks and fosters a safer working environment, which in turn, a more satisfied and productive workforce.
Automated packaging system of your production can help you to increase output while reducing labor cost and the risk of understaffing, thus leading to boost in profitability of your business. As labor challenges continue and business objectives change, adding automation to your end-of-line packing operations can help take your business to the next level.
If you’re looking to make your packaging processes more efficient and cost effective, we are here to help you get stared. Contact with us today to explore automation solutions to boost your business.