Robots help label before molding

Abstract

Purpose

Seeks to review how a relatively new technology, in mold labelling of injection moulded items, can be achieved in a cost‐effective way with robots.

Design/methodology/approach

A custom‐designed robot combined with a custom‐designed end‐of‐arm unit, both applies labels in the mold before the injection process and removes finished items. A vision system checks for label placement and quality. A second robot packs finished items into shipping cartons.

Findings

The automated system can produce tens of millions of items per year in a very cost‐effective manner.

Practical implications

Users need to turn to robotic system designers who can combine several operations within one robotic cycle and apply emerging technologies. Custom designed end‐of‐arm units and reviewing even the shipping carton may provide critical answers.

Originality/value

Combining new technologies with custom robotics can help users meet many production goals with one solution.

Citation

Bloss, R. (2006), "Robots help label before molding", Industrial Robot, Vol. 33 No. 6, pp. 425-427. https://doi.org/10.1108/01439910610705581