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Collaborative Packing Machines

Collaborative Packing Machines: Intelligent Automation for Today’s Packaging

Collaborative packing machines are those that integrate robotic automation and the packaging process to enable manufacturers to be productive, consistent, and flexible during production. Unlike regular automated machines that need extensive fixed guarding, collaborative packing machines work well in proximity with workers when the application is assessed and safeguarded properly.

There is currently a growing demand for collaborative automation systems. As indicated by Grand View Research, the global collaborative robot market size has been valued at USD 2.9 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 17.2 billion by 2033, representing a 23.1% CAGR from 2026 to 2033. This market encompasses several applications, including packaging.

Increasing Use of Collaborative Robots in Packaging Applications

In today’s packaging processes, repetitive tasks such as pick-and-place, carton filling, sorting of products, case packing, and material handling are common. These can be automated with the aid of collaborative robots.

In its latest publication, the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) mentioned that about 542,000 robots were deployed globally in 2024. At the same time, the total number of industrial robots in operation amounted to 4.664 million, which is a 9% growth from 2023.

According to the IFR, such a shift in the robot landscape is the result of “a huge surge in demand” for automation, which stems from the fact that production is becoming more digital and automated.

This trend allows packaging companies to introduce automation to the repetitive tasks of material handling without having to change the whole production line.

Advantages of Collaborative Packing Systems

There are many benefits of employing collaborative packing systems:

  • Consistency of motion: The motion of robots is repeatable and ensures proper handling and placement.
  • Flexibility: Cobots can be programmed for various products, packaging, and processes.
  • Less repetitive work: Automation can take over repetitive pick-and-place and packing activities.
  • Space efficiency: Collaborative applications may be implemented according to the existing layout where the risk assessment is acceptable. 
  • Ease of implementation: Packing robots can integrate with conveyors, sensors, vision systems, grippers, and other automation equipment.
  • Gradual automation: Manufacturers can implement automation step by step as their needs increase.

Industrial robots are utilized for tasks like material handling, assembly, and machine loading/unloading, as stated by the U. S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Safety and Collaborative Robot Applications

A collaborative robot does not automatically imply a robot that is safe for any kind of application. The full robot cell, the tooling, the product, the cost, and the environment are to be taken into consideration.

The ISO/TS 15066 standard gives safety standards for collaborative industrial robots and their environments. This adds to the safety requirements mentioned in ISO 10218.

This is even more critical for packing applications since the tooling at the end of the arm, cartons, products, and the conveyors may create additional hazards like pinch points.

Manufacturers therefore need to consider the entire packer system – and not just the robot.

Application of Collaborative Packing Machines

Collaborative packing machines can be used in the food and beverage industry, consumer goods industry, electronics industry, pharmaceutical industry, cosmetics industry, automotive components industry, and general manufacturing industries.

Common applications include product picking, carton packing, box packing, tray packing, case packing, sorting, palletization, and material handling.

The correct configuration should be considered depending on product size, payload, cycle time, packaging material, precision level needed, and production space available.

Why Choose Yiruixing Technology?

Yiruixing Technology manufactures CNC machinery, robotic automation, and custom-made automated systems suitable for use in manufacturing industries. Our solutions offer a way to cater to varying production needs by combining robotic automation, machinery, and robotics technologies.

Collaborative packing automation manufacturers who are interested in implementing automation technology in their business can collaborate with Yiruixing Technology, and we will offer assistance in designing an automated solution according to your production process needs.

FAQ

What is a collaborative packing machine?

A collaborative packing machine refers to an automated packaging system that employs a collaborative robot (cobot) for carrying out various activities such as picking up, sorting, and packing products. The system is built based on the application and safety concerns.

How are collaborative packing machines used?

Collaborative packing machines can be applied in carton loading, product packing, pick-and-place, sorting, tray loading, case packing, and many other packaging operations.

Are collaborative packing robots safe?

It all depends on the complete application. Safety requirements for collaborative industrial robot systems are defined in ISO/TS 15066, and risk assessment and adequate protective measures must be made for each installation.

Can collaborative packing robots pack different products?

Yes. Depending on the robot, gripper, sensor technology, and control systems, a collaborative packing system can be designed for different products, sizes, and packaging formats. Changeover considerations must be taken into account when designing the system.

What should I consider to select a collaborative packing machine?

Some important parameters to consider are the load, size of the products, cycle time, reach, type of gripper, packaging format, conveyor layout, available workspace, and safety features. A thorough evaluation of the production process is recommended prior to selecting the system.

Manufacturers worldwide trust Yiruixing Technology for advanced robotics, precision engineering, and customized automation solutions that enhance productivity, accuracy, and operational efficiency.
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