01

Application context

The integration between conveyors and robotics has brought a much higher level of automation to a variety of packaging applications in recent years. The two components work hand-in-hand to deliver a streamlined, efficient operation with more accuracy and a strong return-on-investment.

In 2021 and beyond, this joint effort is only going to get stronger within industries like packaging as conveyors become more advanced in their integration capabilities with robotics. Take a look in any modern-day processing or packaging facility, and operators can see automation is the prime driver behind the way products are being produced.

  • Ensure the environment around the conveyors and robotics is dry, clean and free from dust. Contaminants, even small foreign particles, can hinder performance.
  • Ensure an adequate source of power for both components, as well as room for mounting controls for conveyors and robotics.
  • Robotics have long reach and will be swinging between the conveyor and related equipment. Ensure there is enough space for it to perform its operation without placing staff or other machinery in danger.
  • Speaking of reach, how far do you need your cobot to reach to perform its function? Cobots come in various sizes, from small tabletop models that reach about 20 in. to larger units that reach more than 50 in.

02

Design considerations

Just as technology is playing a larger role in the expansion of conveyor capabilities, the same can be said for robotics. New to the scene are smaller, agile collaborative robots, or cobots, designed to safely share a workspace with people. This opens up new applications within packaging, assembly, and other industries that previously didn’t involve any robotic interaction.

BRAAS works closely with several automation manufacturers, such as Universal Robots, in designing custom solutions that seamlessly integrate conveyors and robotics for the packaging industry.

  • The base of a robotic system needs to be securely mounted to a level concrete floor. The base of even a smaller cobot can still be several square feet in dimension; be sure you have enough room to accommodate the size.