Robotics and automation are changing the cartoning and case-packing landscape by providing faster packaging, taking up less space, improving workplace safety, and freeing up employees for other tasks.

In the last few years, robots have become smaller, more affordable, and more widely available. Their capabilities have steadily expanded through improvements such as machine vision, end-of-arm tooling technology, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, durability, and safety. Robots have also become simpler to both program and operate, reducing the level of technical skill needed for successful deployment. As these capabilities progress, robots are steadily expanding into new applications and even entirely new industries, according to Jorge Izquierdo, vice president, market development for PMMI, Herndon, VA.