The world of product automation is changing rapidly. Particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote robotics and automated manufacturing practices are on the rise. In fact, the AI market size is expected to grow to US$190.61 billion by 2025. Robotics and automation solutions are becoming much more sophisticated, spurring an exciting array of advances in product automation for consumer product goods.
But what does this mean for your manufacturing process? In this article, we’ll explore some of the most exciting new technologies that are changing the landscape of producing CPGs, and the ways they can revolutionize your business.
Advanced Robotics
Over the past few decades, robotics has evolved from a far-off science fiction concept into an everyday reality. Modern robots are becoming cheaper, more sophisticated, and more reliable. Within the realm of robotics, there are several new technologies in particular that aid in the production of CPGs.
Object Recognition
Recently, engineers have markedly improved a robot’s ability to recognize specific objects. Utilizing Cloud technology, robots can take known images directly from the Cloud and compare those images to the products around them in real time. This has helped automated robots navigate the shape and specifics of the products they handle.
Object recognition means that robots can assess the safest ways to pick up and move products, reducing the chance of damage. This technology also ensures robots place products correctly in a production sequence, allowing for clear and clean packaging and labeling which minimizes shipping errors.
Gripper Technology
Another advancement in robotics is improved gripper technology. Newer, gentler robotic grips allow softer food-grade items to be handled without bruising, squishing, or deforming the product. This opens exciting new possibilities for a variety of CPG providers, as soft gripper robots manage delicate products, reduce waste, and ensure higher quality in production.
Improving the Supply Chain
CPG production is an ever-shifting and volatile market. Demand for products can skyrocket or wane quickly, as can the availability of raw materials. These unique challenges become more manageable with unique technologies that can streamline the supply chain and mitigate risk.
Artificial Intelligence
CPG companies can use AI to predict what range of products should be on-shelf, as well as set optimal prices for those products. AI-driven demand forecasting allows for direct communication with the production line about best manufacturing and shipping practices, even as they shift in real-time.
Understanding trends and being as prepared as possible for shifts in product demand means that manufacturers won’t be stuck with an abundance of wasted products, nor will they be short on supply when demand rises.
Summit Automation Solutions
Modern consumer product manufacturers can benefit enormously by adopting customized and specific automation solutions in their digital transformation. Every company has different needs when automating production, so it’s critical to ask the right questions and work with the experts when designing your new systems for product automation.
Summit Engineered Automation partners with you to build advanced production automation equipment that will lower costs, improve quality and safety, and increase productivity.