Robotics Emerge to Power Next-Generation Industrial Environments

Dan Dibbern and Laura Studwell for Quality Magazine:  Industrial robots are expected to be the focus for investment in factory automation. According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), investment in industrial robots is expected to grow at an annual rate of 12% from 2015 to 2017. The packaging industry is experiencing a surge in robotic integration throughout primary, secondary and tertiary packaging—from processing, assembly, labeling and cartoning to case packing and palletizing.

The driving force behind the surge in robotics sales growth in North America is the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). The FSMA is requiring companies to introduce automated machinery and components into the production process to help eliminate potential product quality and integrity issues.

With the FSMA about to publicly release its requirements, the use of robots in packaging is at the point of takeoff. And with recent technical advances in robotics helping to power the new wave of interest, companies are experiencing first-hand that robots are faster, smarter and more affordable than ever before.

Featured Product

KNF - Automation Technology Requires Reliable and Durable Pumps

KNF - Automation Technology Requires Reliable and Durable Pumps

KNF vacuum pumps for automation applications are designed for a long service life, with micro gas pumps used as cobot pumps achieving more than 20,000 hours. The latest generation of KNF brushless DC motors has an innovative bearing design that withstands high mechanical loads. This technical strength protects the vacuum pump's longevity, especially with fast switching cycles.