Investigation of Possibilities for Automating Existing Packaging Line

Abstract

This study investigates the possibility of automating a packaging line in a manufacturing plant. The objective of the study is to evaluate the feasibility of implementing automation to increase efficiency and reduce packaging costs. Automated packaging lines use state-of-the-art technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence and advanced sensors to streamline the packaging process. The result of this integration is greater speed, accuracy and reliability compared to traditional manual packaging methods. The research methodology involves analyzing the current packaging process, identifying areas that could benefit from automation, and assessing the costs and benefits of implementing automation. The study finds that automation can significantly improve the speed and accuracy of the packaging process while reducing labor costs and improving product quality. A time study was performed on the manual packaging line as well as the designed automated packaging line in which a commercially used software, Flexsim is put to use and a design which is similar to the 3d model made in Flexsim to analyse the time difference for the manual packaging line to pack one product and the automated packaging line to pack one product is recorded and made a comparison. However, the initial investment cost for automation is high and requires careful planning and evaluation. The study concludes that the benefits of automation justify the initial investment cost and recommends that the manufacturing plant consider implementing automation in its packaging line to increase the production rate.