Automation is reshaping industrial processes, and pick and place robots stand at the forefront of this transformation. These robotic systems enhance productivity, accuracy, and safety across multiple industries by performing repetitive tasks with remarkable speed and precision. This guide explores the types, mechanisms, applications, advantages, and future trends of pick and place robots, offering insights into their implementation in modern manufacturing and packaging environments.
What is a pick & place robot?
A pick and place robot is an automated system, with several movement’s degrees, equipped with specialized grippers, to grasp and relocate products accurately.
These robots can operate autonomously and under human supervision, depending on their complexity and intended use.
The core mechanism involves sensors, actuators, servo-driven motors, and control systems, enabling precise movements and high productivity.
How does a pick and place robot work?
Pick and place robots rely on a combination of mechanical components and software algorithms to carry out tasks efficiently. Using sensors (such as vision systems), the robot identifies an object, calculates its position and orientation, picks it up using a gripper or suction system, and places it at the designated position.
Key components include:
- Vision systems: Cameras and sensors identify object positions and orientations.
- End effectors: Grippers, suction cups, or electromagnets to handle items.
- Robotic control systems: Algorithms controlling precise movement and coordination.
Types of pick & place robots
Pick and place robots come in several mechanical configurations, each suited to specific tasks:
1.- Cartesian Robots:
- Maximum axes: 3
- Type of movement: Linear axes (X, Y, Z).
- Advantages: High precision, high repeatability, good for easy operations, handles heavy loads, and large reach.
- Example of application: Case packing and palletizing.
2.- SCARA Robots:
- Maximum axes: 4
- Type of movement: 3 rotational joints for horizontal positioning, 1 linear movement for vertical motion.
- Advantages: High precision, excellent repeatability, greater flexibility and speed, suitable for tasks requiring force.
- Example of application: Fast assembly operations like inserting components, and inspection tasks.
3.- Delta Robots:
- Maximum axes: 5
- Type of movement: 3 interconnected rotational joints for spatial positioning, and 2 rotating joints for end of effector orientation.
- Advantages: Extremely fast, highly precise, capable of complex and multidirectional movements, and able to synchronize with conveyor belts.
- Application use: Food packaging, pharmaceutical handling.
4.- Articulated Robots:
- Maximum axes: 6
- Type of movement: Typically equipped with 4 independent rotary joints for spatial positioning and 2 rotating joints for end of effector orientation.
- Advantages: High-speed, complex and multidirectional movements, heavy payload handling, and long reach.
- Application use: Manipulation of heavy payloads in applications such as automotive assembly or industrial material handling.
Advantages of pick and place robots
Incorporating pick and place robots into production lines delivers significant benefits over manual operations:
- Increased speed: Significantly reduce production time with high-speed operation.
- Improved accuracy: Minimize errors and defective products, ensuring consistent product quality.
- Enhanced productivity: Capable of working continuously 24/7, these robots improve overall output.
- Cost efficiency: Lower labor costs and reduce material waste through precision.
- Workplace safety: Robots handle dangerous or repetitive tasks, reducing workplace injuries.
High-speed pick and place robots
When speed is critical, Delta robots lead the way. Their lightweight structure and rapid, multidirectional motion make them the ideal solution for time-sensitive, high-throughput environments—especially in food packaging and pharmaceutical operations, where precision and hygiene are essential.
Manufacturers rely on their unparalleled accuracy to maintain competitive advantage and meet high production demands.
Pick and place robotic project examples
Real-world examples highlight the power of pick and place robotics in action:
- Neuhaus: A premium praline manufacturer automated its packaging process by implementing an ATP-Packaging picking line featuring five Delta robots guided by artificial vision technology. This intelligent system gently handles pralines to avoid damage, especially critical for delicate toppings, and includes a 100% product inspection quality control mechanism.
- Biscuit packaging: ATP-Packaging developed a sophisticated automated packaging line for a leading Spanish bakery producer, addressing their need for increased productivity in biscuit packaging without compromising quality. The solution includes a pick and place line, with eight visión-guided high-speed Delta robots, integrated with an IMA Ilapak Carrera 1500 flowpack machine, ensuring precise handling and flexible packaging of various biscuit shapes and sizes.
Future Trends in pick and place robotics
Emerging technologies continue to enhance the capabilities of pick and place robots, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Improved decision-making and adaptive operations.
- IoT and Smart Sensors: Enhanced connectivity, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance capabilities.
As technology advances, pick and place robots will become more flexible and accessible, transforming manufacturing and industrial processes significantly.
Choosing the right manufacturer for your pick and place automation needs
Selecting the right automation partner is essential. Look for:
- Experience and reputation: A track record of successful installations.
- Customization solutions: Flexible pick and place solutions to meet specific production requirements.
- Support and service: After-sale service and technical support to ensure minimal downtime.
ATP-Packaging: Your pick and place automation partner
At ATP-Packaging, we specialize in high-performance, bespoke pick and place systems, engineered to meet your unique packaging automation needs. Our experienced team works closely with you at every stage—helping you select the perfect robot configuration, managing the installation process, and providing reliable after-sales support.
Ready to transform your production line with innovative, efficient automation? Contact ATP-Packaging today to learn how our state-of-the-art pick and place solutions can enhance your operational efficiency and competitive edge.
