At the Pack Expo event held in Chicago, FANUC, one of the leading manufacturers of industrial automation solutions, presented a series of collaborative and industrial robots specifically designed to improve processes in the food and packaging industry. During the exhibition, the company highlighted its commitment to innovation and the adaptability of its products, which address key challenges such as labor shortages, production efficiency, and compliance with the industry’s strict hygiene standards.
One of the most notable models was the CRX-20iA/L, a food-grade collaborative robot designed to work alongside operators without the need for safety barriers. This robot was used for loading and unloading cookie trays, a process that requires precision and flexibility due to the delicate nature of the product. The CRX-20iA/L can adapt to different tray sizes and shapes, optimizing production times and reducing downtime on manufacturing lines.
Another important robot that FANUC presented was the DR-3iB/6 STAINLESS, a stainless steel delta robot ideal for handling food in environments that require high levels of hygiene. This model was specially designed to meet food safety regulations and was used for tasks such as palletizing and packaging products. Thanks to its stainless steel construction, the DR-3iB/6 STAINLESS can operate in rigorous conditions, such as those required in the food industry. Additionally, its robust design allows it to perform high-speed tasks with great precision, improving efficiency in packaging processes.
FANUC also presented the M-20iA, a six-axis industrial robot designed to perform more complex tasks such as assembly, material handling, and palletizing. The M-20iA was showcased in a flexible packaging system, demonstrating its ability to adapt to different products and production volumes. This robot is known for its versatility and precision, key characteristics for automation in demanding production environments, such as those in the food and packaging industry.
Additionally, the company showcased the M-10iA, another industrial robot that, like the M-20iA, is ideal for handling and assembly tasks. This robot stood out for its ability to integrate with artificial vision systems, allowing it to perform inspection and classification tasks as products moved along the production line.
To facilitate the integration of these robots into production lines, FANUC presented its PalletTool system, an intuitive tool that optimizes the palletizing process. This system allows users to easily program and configure palletizing applications without the need for advanced robotics knowledge. Thanks to its ease of use, PalletTool has been a popular solution among manufacturers seeking quick and efficient automation.
The food industry faces several challenges, such as the need to improve operational efficiency and maintain high quality standards, especially in the context of a shortage of skilled labor. The collaborative and industrial robots presented by FANUC address these issues by improving productivity, ensuring greater quality control, and adapting to strict food safety regulations. By working alongside operators, these robots optimize workflow and allow companies to focus on other key areas of their development.
FANUC showcased its ability to offer advanced industrial automation solutions at Pack Expo. With robots like the CRX-20iA/L, the DR-3iB/6 STAINLESS, the M-20iA, and the M-10iA, the company demonstrated that collaborative and industrial robotics are key tools for the food and packaging industry. These advancements not only improve production efficiency but also help comply with strict hygiene regulations, marking a significant step towards the digital transformation of processes in these industries.
For more information on how URT can help your company implement robotic solutions, visit URT here and discover how we can transform your manufacturing process.