The Robotic Palletizer: Cost-Effective & Ergonomic

Palletizing is an important part of any manufacturing process. While it normally occurs at the end of the production line, it can still be a labor-intensive and time-consuming task - especially if done incorrectly or carelessly. In years gone by, businesses used human workers to do all the palletizing. However, there has been a shift in the world towards cost-efficient and ergonomically sound processes, and robotic palletizers have been identified as the best solution here.

Why robotic palletizers are cost-effective

The reality is robots will always be more efficient than humans at completing repetitive tasks. In most car manufacturing factories around the globe, as an example, robotic welders have become the norm as they make a positive impact on the output and create less wastage. Yet, investment in a robot can be pricey, so businesses want to see the return on their investment.

Here’s how robotic palletizers are cost-effective:

Consistency and reliability

Robots are capable of performing the same function over and over again on a consistent basis. They don’t need to take breaks, nor does their output change, as they execute what’s required of them.

Fewer errors

As long as a robot is programmed correctly, it’s essentially told what to do. As a result, it won’t deviate from expectations and execute to spec.

Adaptability

Since robots are programmable, it’s possible to change the programming to perform different palletizing or robotic applications. If they need to be used elsewhere in the production line, all that’s necessary is a change in the gripper.

Why robotic palletizers are ergonomic

As mentioned before, palletizing was a function done by human workers in the past. While there are incredibly strong people on the planet who could probably lift a bus with their pinky toe, such as Brock Lesnar, there’s a safety and accuracy danger associated with manual palletizing.

Here’s how robotic palletizers are changing this and being ergonomic:

Less strenuous

Manufacturers need to adhere to health and safety standards. Lifting heavy items can become dangerous to a worker’s health and wellbeing over time. A robot removes the risk of accidental injuries, while also allowing an operator to easily maneuver and use the robot for purpose.

Empower workers

If a strenuous and dangerous job can be done by a robot, why force a human being to do it? By freeing them up from this type of work, you open up an opportunity for them to focus on tasks that require more cognitive reasoning. Robots will never be able to think for themselves, so there’s a chance for workers to upskill themselves and focus on the work that requires them to apply their minds.

Using Yaskawa’s robotic palletizers

Through decades of research and world-class development, Yaskawa has become a trusted partner and leader in the manufacturing of robotic solutions. Our solutions are flexible and feature 2D and 3D vision software, as well as specialized software and tooling to enable customisation for speed, safety, accuracy, and maximum productivity. Plus, we also offer the necessary training to maximize the full potential of your robot. Contact us for more info.