Thinking Outside of the Box…
Sometimes thinking outside of the box is a great thing. In the automation world it is also important to think INSIDE the box. It is always a great idea to automatically label, convey, sort, etc. the items and boxes used in fulfillment. However, automating things going into the box is also a great labor saving practice. In this example I am talking about inserting literature and promo materials via friction feed dispensers.
The only hands that really touch this entire process are loading flat corrugate into a case former, and a single operator who handles numerous non-standard items that vary from batch to batch which do not make much sense to automate at current volumes.
Once the box is formed, a label is printed and applied automatically, then items are dispensed into the open cases. The case is then taped and labeled with a preprinted label, then goes to a RFID reader where the actual products inside is read and verified against an order ID, and is weighed and manifested for shipping.
Inserting brochures and literature inside the box
