What are the key trends affecting robotic applications in packaging machines?
Key trends in packaging include machines that perform more operations within the same operating envelope, more quality inspection, printing, coating, labeling and even incorporating vision capabilities. OEMs are also adding another degree of freedom within machines, which brings in the robotic side of the equation especially in certain classes of machinery.
In near to end-of-line packaging applications, there is a strong need for customization. That’s where we’re finding more robots as an integral part of the machine, rather than off-the-shelf robots where the system operates stand-alone and the form factor is not quite right. The result is OEMs are able to offer end users a wider range of options for late-stage customization and quality inspection of products.
What technologies are helping to drive these changes?
OEMs are buying precision, off-the-shelf mechanical devices and integrating them within the machine envelope. But the key is both the robotic controls and software are becoming part of the standard controls used on the machines. More motion suppliers and PLC vendors have integrated robotics technology and offer kinematic software that enables the OEM to provide robotic solutions, so the machine builder can efficiently reduce the complexity of the overall machine design. The only area of weakness is tight integration of vision with these robotics systems. Vision systems are still often not an integral part of the solution and the next step in the development of this technology will be fully integrating vision and guidance capabilities.
What packaging applications are prime targets for advanced robotic control?
Both retail and pharmaceutical applications are requiring greater customization of products and the ability to pack cartons or wrap different product arrangements using the same piece of machinery. In pharmaceuticals, there is a growing need for regional shipments. There is also a need for individualization of the delivery to customers. Products need to be packaged in a way that makes it possible to make a unique shipment to individuals. Late-stage marketing campaigns is another area for growth, where robotics is increasingly being used to move marketing materials into a wallet pack or cartons. These materials are being flexibly added at a very late stage in the packaging process to customize the shipments.
Why are OEMs using general purpose motion for robotics in packaging machines?
A primary goal for OEMs is reducing the cost of the overall machine. Any time you have to integrate two control systems that work together, you add cost. Automation suppliers have integrated robotics algorithms into their control platforms and lowered the cost of putting together these systems. Users have a single application programming environment because the robotics application is effectively part of the entire control algorithm. Users can move information back and forth between domains much more easily, which simplifies overall safety management and coordination of material flow within the machine.
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