A First Step into Robotic Automation with a Palletizing System
Post date :
June 24, 2024
A First Step into Robotic Automation with a Palletizing SystemWith more than 80% of goods shipped on pallets during the transport stage, many companies see robotic palletizing as a logical first step into robotic automation. Palletizing is one of the simplest automation applications to deploy — it can usually be added to a production process without modifying or disrupting the systems already in operation.
Robotic palletizing is also a safer option for employees, reducing labour risks such as heavy lifting, lifting-and-twisting motions, and repetitive movements. Collaborative robots have grown increasingly popular for this work because robotic palletizing systems are designed to handle cartons arriving from different packing lines. These systems are highly flexible — capable of building pallets made up of boxes containing several different products at the same time. The robot component that picks the goods is called the gripping tool, which picks cartons from the system and places them in position on the pallet. The end-of-arm gripping tool can be adapted to suit many types of containers. The system reduces manual labour and transport-process costs while improving the efficiency of pallet stacking.
Getting to Know Collaborative Robot PalletizingIn the past, cobot designs offered limited versatility and were not a fit for every manufacturer. Today, however, cobot development has diversified considerably to serve the move toward future-ready production systems. Cobots have evolved in the following ways to support palletizing applications:
The YASKAWA HC Series collaborative robot line supports palletizing work with extended reach and higher payload capacity.
• Longer robot arm reach, accommodating a wider range of pallet sizes and stack heights
• Higher speed with greater payload capacity, such as the YASKAWA HC20DTP and HC30PL cobots
• A variety of software packages that simplify complex configuration to meet customer needs, such as these YASKAWA software options:
• Smart Pattern – a graphical interface for the Smart Pendant that facilitates simple pattern-based code creation. Commonly supported applications include unloading, stacking, and box packing.
• Pallet Builder™ – an easy-to-use option app for the Smart Pendant that enables no-code cell configuration, pallet pattern setup, and operating modes with simple error recovery.
How Do Collaborative Robots Support Palletizing Systems?• Increase operational efficiency with maximum precision and flexibility
• Improve employee safety by working alongside the robot without the need for safety fencing
• Easy installation thanks to a compact, flexible, easily relocated design
• Reliable product picking across a variety of carton types
The CoboPal HC30PL palletizing package pairs a collaborative robot with ready-to-run software for fast deployment. Manufacturers who would like to learn more about Collaborative Robots can contact Yaskawa specialists for a consultation. We are ready to guide you toward sustainable production.
Credit: YASKAWA MOTOMAN by Chris Caldwell, Product Manager
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