The integration of robots in the food industry processes is transforming how food products are manufactured, handled, packaged, and distributed.
By incorporating robotic technology, companies are achieving unprecedented levels of productivity, consistency, and food safety, responding effectively to rising consumer demand and stringent regulatory requirements.
Use of robots in food industry
Processing
Robots handle various food processing tasks such as cutting, slicing, and dicing with remarkable precision, significantly reducing waste and ensuring uniformity in portion sizes. Automation of these processes guarantees high-quality standards and improved throughput.
Packaging
Packaging is one of the most common uses of robots in the food industry. Automated robotic systems enhance the efficiency of packaging operations by swiftly handling delicate products, minimizing the risk of contamination, and optimizing package sealing to extend shelf life.
Palletizing
Robots are extensively employed for palletizing operations, efficiently organizing case packed products onto pallets for distribution. Automated palletizing reduces labor costs, prevents product damage, and enhances workplace safety.
Quality control
In food quality control, robots are guided by advanced vision systems and sensors that detect defects, contamination, and inconsistencies in products. These systems analyze images or sensor data and direct the robot to perform specific tasks, such as removing defective items or sorting products. This approach enables faster and more precise inspections than manual methods, ensuring consistent product quality and food safety.
Types of robots used in the food industry
As automation becomes increasingly essential to modern food production, a variety of robots are being used in processing, packaging, and distribution. Each type of robot plays a unique role depending on the task, payload, and required precision. The most common types of robots used in the food industry are listed below:
Delta robots
Delta robots feature a lightweight, parallel-arm design mounted above the workspace, allowing them to execute ultra-fast and accurate pick-and-place movements. They’re widely used in food packaging lines to handle lightweight and delicate products such as candies, pralines, and pastries. Their speed makes them ideal for tasks requiring rapid, repetitive pick-and-place actions, significantly improving throughput and product handling precision.
SCARA robots
Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arms (SCARAs) deliver rapid, precise horizontal movement paired with controlled vertical placement. Their design ensures high accuracy and consistent repeatability while enabling the application of moderate force. SCARAs are especially effective in the food industry for fast pick-and-place and sorting operations, such as placing items into trays and positioning products for inspection.
Cartesian robots
Also known as gantry robots, Cartesian systems are high-quality industrial manipulators that operate on two or three linear axes, which are positioned at right angles to one another. Their robust structure and long reach make them ideal for easy and repetitive pick-and-place tasks. They offer high precision, excellent repeatability, and strong load-handling capabilities.
In the food industry, Cartesian robots are commonly used for case packing, palletizing, and stacking trays.
Articulated robots
Articulated robots have six rotary joints and up to six axis, which provide a wide range of motion and flexibility that accurately mimics human arm movement. This versatility enables them to perform complex and varied tasks at different stages of food production.
In the food industry, they are primarily used for loading, unloading, palletizing, and handling products. Their ability to operate at different angles and in different workspaces makes them ideal for tasks requiring skill, strength, and adaptability.
Advantages of robots in food industry
Increased productivity
Robotic systems operate at high speeds and with exceptional accuracy, dramatically improving production efficiency and throughput. Automation reduces downtime, increases output, and enables food producers to scale operations rapidly.
Enhanced food safety
Robots minimize human contact with food products, substantially reducing the risk of contamination. Hygienic robotic designs and easy-to-clean surfaces comply with stringent food safety regulations, ensuring safe processing environments.
Improved product consistency
Robotic precision ensures consistent food production and packaging, resulting in uniform product size, shape, and weight. This reliability enhances customer satisfaction, reinforcing brand trust and quality.
Reduction in operational costs
Robotic automation reduces labor costs, minimizes material waste, and optimizes resource utilization. Robots can run continuously without getting tired, which helps reduce production costs and increase overall efficiency and profitability.
Enhanced workplace safety
By taking on repetitive, physically demanding, and hazardous tasks, robots significantly reduce the risk of workplace injuries. Automation makes the workplace safer while allowing employees to focus on supervision, quality control, and higher-value activities.
Success Stories
Automated case packing line for candies
ATP-Packaging developed a complete, multi-format candy packing line that uses advanced robotic solutions. This project increased productivity and flexibility, improved the uniform placement of candy bags, and ensured careful handling of products at high speeds. It also allows for fully automatic format changes and optimized control of product quantity per box.
Automated packaging for crepes
ATP-Packaging successfully implemented an automated packing and palletizing line with pick-and-place robots for a major crêpe manufacturer. This solution optimized production and resource use while ensuring traceability and control of all products and pallets. It also maintained consistent and reliable output and reduced the risk of injuries and film costs compared to manual wrapping.
Robotic packaging line for biscuits
ATP Packaging designed a state-of-the-art packaging line for a major cookie manufacturer. The line features high-speed Delta robots and machine vision to ensure excellent product handling, agile and consistent production, and maximum flexibility for different cookie formats. It also offers digital efficiency control and reaches speeds of up to 650 ppm.
Partner with ATP-Packaging
Are you ready to elevate your food production with advanced robotic automation?
We offer customized robotic solutions designed to enhance your operational efficiency, productivity, and product quality. Our team of professionals provides comprehensive support, guiding you through every step of the process, from design and commissioning to maintenance and supplying spare parts.
Contact ATP-Packaging today to learn how our innovative robotic solutions can transform your food manufacturing processes and strengthen your competitive advantage.
