Theme: Palletizing and Depalletizing

What is automated palletizing and depalletizing?

When we talk about automated palletizing, we simply mean that a robot places boxes or other objects on a pallet in a predetermined, organized pattern. The pallet is then ready for transport or storage.

Automated depalletizing means that the robot removes items from the pallet in a predetermined, organized pattern. The robot prepares the items for further handling, such as unpacking or sorting the goods.

What are the benefits of automated palletizing?

The benefits of automated palletizing and depalletizing are numerous and complement each other well. Here are 8 key benefits:

• Time savings

  Automated palletizing and depalletizing are significantly faster than manual handling, which streamlines preparations for transport, storage, and further processing. Wemo robots handle goods quickly and efficiently, whether stacking or picking products from the pallet.

• Reduced strain injuries

  Automating the handling of pallets reduces the need for staff to perform heavy lifting and repetitive tasks. This reduces the risk of work-related strain injuries and contributes to a safer and more sustainable working environment.

• Consistent and accurate handling

  Wemo's systems deliver high precision and consistency in both stacking and destacking, reducing the risk of product damage. This is particularly important for fragile or valuable goods. In addition, the systems optimize the use of pallet space, contributing to more efficient logistics.

• Flexibility

  Wemo's automated systems are adaptable and can handle a wide range of products, packaging, and sizes. This makes it possible to respond quickly to changes in the product range and other production needs.

• Increased productivity

  By combining fast and consistent handling with advanced automation, Wemo's robots help to increase overall productivity. This results in faster order processing and shorter lead times.

• Improved safety

  Automated systems reduce the risk of accidents by eliminating the need for dangerous lifting and monotonous work tasks. This leads to a safer working environment for all employees.

• Seamless integration with other systems

  Wemo's palletizing solutions can be easily integrated with existing production and logistics systems, improving workflow and efficiency throughout the supply chain.

• Traceability and data analysis

  With Wemo's software, every step in the palletizing process can be tracked and recorded. This provides valuable insights that can be used to optimize logistics processes and identify potential areas for improvement.

Examples of automated material handling signed by Wemo

Customer 1: Leading electronics chain

Need: The customer needed a fully automated solution for palletizing products. The goal was to increase efficiency while reducing the ergonomic strain on staff. Together with external partners, we developed a pallet conveyor system that optimized the logistics chain, from production to delivery.

Solution:

Automated palletizing: We installed two customized gantry robots (Wemo xPacker) that automatically lift pre-packed cartons (up to 20 kg) from conveyor belts and place them on pallets according to a pattern, with heights up to 2.40 meters.

Pallet conveyor system: An integrated pallet conveyor system was installed to easily transport pallets from the palletizing station to the warehouse and on to the loading area. The system also included a stretch film machine that secures the products on the pallets for transport.

Results: The automated solution increased productivity, reduced ergonomic strain, and required fewer staff. This freed up resources that could be used for other tasks, which was particularly important during periods of high workload.

Customer 2: Manufacturing company in the plastics industry

Need: The customer needed a flexible and efficient solution to optimize production between different cells, while minimizing lead time and manual handling.

Solution:

Automated buffer solution: We installed a buffer solution between the customer's IMM production cell and the assembly cell, where our xPacker cell automatically handles parts across four pallet locations. The system adapts to the production rate and demand in real time, providing optimal efficiency. For safe and accurate handling, the cell is equipped with machine guards (safety fences) and a camera. This solution has provided the customer with a smooth and safe production flow.

Results: The automated buffer solution led to more continuous and efficient production, which reduced lead times and improved resource utilization. The need for manual labor was reduced, freeing up staff for other tasks and contributing to increased flexibility, especially during peak periods.

Steps for implementing an automated palletizing/depalletizing process

Implementing an automated solution requires a carefully planned process. Here we present the main steps for ensuring successful integration.

1. Current situation analysis

   The first step is to conduct a thorough review of your company's current situation. We visit your premises to examine the conditions, such as ceiling height, existing forklift aisles, and available work space. This analysis is crucial to understanding the physical framework for an automation solution.

2. Needs analysis

   During the visit, we engage in an in-depth dialogue with you to identify your specific needs. We listen to the challenges you face and the goals you want to achieve with automation. Here, we also develop a vision of what the future solution could look like, based on your wishes.

3. Problem solving

   If our analysis shows that we can meet your needs, we begin the problem-solving phase. Here, we create a concept that contains detailed proposals on how we can solve your company's problems. This may include various technical solutions and a plan for how the automation can be implemented in your business.

4. Presentation and decision-making process

   The next step is to present the concept to you. Together, we will review the proposed solution to ensure that it meets all requirements. We will discuss the budget, review the quote, and make any necessary adjustments. Once all parties are in agreement and the quote has been finalized, we can begin implementing the automation solution.

Summary

Want to improve your palletizing process while saving time and resources? Wemo offers customized automation solutions for both palletizing and depalletizing, giving you increased efficiency and safety.

Automated palletizing involves robots placing products on pallets in a precise pattern, ready for transport or storage. Depalletizing works in the opposite way, with robots removing the products from the pallet for further processing. Both processes can revolutionize your goods handling by increasing speed and accuracy, while reducing strain injuries and freeing up staff for other tasks.

Would you like to discuss automatic palletizing/depalletizing?

+46 (0)370-65 85 00