Smart packaging automation – scalable, efficient, and accessible for all industries
Different products require different packaging solutions: cardboard, film, trays, bags or blister packs. The shape, weight, sensitivity and stackability of the product also influence the choice of grippers, conveyor technology and robot type.
How many units per minute need to be packaged? Does the packaging solution need to communicate with existing machines (e.g. labellers, scales, palletisers)? Well-thought-out line integration with open interfaces is crucial for a smooth process.
Flexibility is particularly important when there is a wide variety of products or frequent batch changes. Automation solutions with interchangeable grippers, adaptive control or AI-supported image recognition enable quick changeovers – without long downtimes.
Faster, more accurate, and cost-efficient – automation optimizes packaging while reducing errors and resource use.
Automate packaging - define, select, test, integrate.
Which products need to be packaged? What type of packaging will be used? What are the requirements in terms of speed, accuracy and flexibility?
Robotic arms (e.g. SCARA, Delta, cobots) – Grippers for cartons, bags, trays, etc. – Conveyor technology, labellers, feeding systems – Controls, sensors and vision systems
Use the RBTX ‘test before invest’ service to have your application tested or get advice from experts – free of charge and without obligation.
Many systems are ‘plug & play’ and can be integrated into existing packaging lines with minimal effort. igus offers support, training and online tools for configuration.
Many focus on the packaging itself when automating – but what’s often overlooked: how do the packaged products move to the next station? Plan infeed and outfeed just as carefully as the packaging process. Whether it’s conveyors, buffer zones, or pallet changers – only a continuous material flow ensures true line efficiency. Especially with high cycle rates or changing formats, modular conveyor systems and flexible robotic arms are key. On the RBTX marketplace, you’ll find exactly the right components – ready to use, scalable, and easy to integrate with existing systems.
Frequently asked questions about the automation of packaging processes