Modularity and scalable integration as the basis for accelerated automation

This paper analyses the systemic barriers hindering the scaling of automation in consumer packaged goods (CPG/FMCG) manufacturing and substantiates the modular approach to the design of robotic complexes as the key condition for the transition from one-off projects to replicable solutions. Physical, economic and workforce constraints characteristic of the industry are examined. A concept of deep modularity at the level of frame components, conveyors and software interfaces is proposed. The applicability of the Robotics-as-a-Service model for complete robotic cells within a modular architecture is justified. It is shown that hardware unification combined with parametric software tools reduces the project implementation cycle by a factor of 4–6 and extends the accessibility of automation to small and medium-sized enterprises.
EDN: LYOETU, https://elibrary/lyoetu

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