Barcode / Label Check
What Does This Robot Do?
A collaborative robot cell packs flow-wrapped laboratory consumables into formed cartons across two production lines, with an integrated barcode scanner verifying product and carton identification on every pack so traceability is automatic rather than manual.
The Challenge
A manufacturer of laboratory consumables was relying on manual labour to pack high volumes of flow-wrapped product into cartons across two production lines - repetitive, physically demanding work that limited throughput and tied up staff who could be better used elsewhere on the floor. The client also needed reliable product identification and traceability on every carton leaving the line, without slowing the process down or requiring a full guarding rebuild to introduce automation.
The Solution
We designed and installed a collaborative robot cell built around a Universal Robots UR10e fitted with a bespoke gripper, automatically collating and packing the flow-wrapped product into formed cartons across both lines. A Leuze BCL200i barcode scanner was integrated into the line to read and verify product and carton identification as each pack moved through the system, giving the client automated traceability without manual checks. The cell runs on safety area scanning technology rather than traditional fixed guarding, keeping its footprint small and preserving clear access for operators and QC staff. It is operated via a simple touchscreen, so line staff select the product profile themselves to start the system - and if ever needed, the line can revert to manual packing within minutes.
The Result
The client now runs high-volume carton packing with a compact automation footprint, freeing staff from repetitive manual work while retaining full flexibility to fall back to manual packing if required. Automated barcode verification via the Leuze BCL200i gives reliable, hands-off product traceability on every carton, and building the cell around safety scanning rather than fixed guarding meant it could be installed without disrupting the existing line layout or day-to-day access.
Guided by the Leuze BCL200i Barcode Reader.
See Vision & Sensing