A semi-automatic cartoner is a machine used to insert printed materials, such as information leaflets, instruction manuals, leaflets and others, into product packaging, but with a lower level of automation compared to a fully automatic cartoner. This equipment may be intermittent, as it does not produce product feeding and cartoning continuously, or does not have a cartridge arming system, so that the cartridge is manually armed, the product is manually inserted, and placed in the equipment. The equipment only closes the flaps by snapping or hot glue.
These machines are often used in scenarios where production does not justify the investment in a fully automated machine, and where some human intervention is required during the process. Here is what a semi-automatic cartoner is for and how it works:
What is a semi-automatic cartoner used for:
Insertion of printed materials: The main function of a semi-automatic cartoner is to insert printed materials, such as information leaflets, instruction manuals, leaflets, warranty cards and others, into product packaging.
Complementing information: It allows important and regulatory information about the product to be included on the packaging, providing guidance to the user and complying with legal requirements.
Production efficiency: Although not as automated as a fully automatic machine, a semi-automatic cartoner helps improve production line efficiency compared to manually inserting printed materials.
Production flexibility: These machines are often used in scenarios where multiple sizes and types of packaging and printed materials need to be handled.
How a semi-automatic cartoner works:
The operation of a semi-automatic cartoner may vary depending on the model and complexity, but generally follows the following steps:
Feeding printed materials: Printed materials, such as leaflets, manuals and leaflets, are fed into the machine from a magazine or hopper.
Packaging preparation: Product packaging, such as boxes or cases, are prepared manually or using a feeding system.
Insertion of printed materials: An operator or a semi-automatic mechanism positions printed materials into packages according to the predefined packaging layout.
Closing the packages: After inserting the printed materials, the packages are closed manually or with the help of a semi-automatic system, such as flap folding, gluing, twisting, among others.
Quality check (optional): Some machines include quality check systems to ensure that printed materials have been inserted correctly and that the packaging is properly sealed.
Unloading finished packaging: The complete packaging, with the products and printed materials inserted, is ready to be sent for final packaging in larger boxes or for the next stage of the production process.
A semi-automatic cartoner is a flexible option for companies that need partial automation in the process of inserting printed materials into product packaging. It helps improve efficiency, although it requires some human intervention, making it a suitable alternative for smaller-scale productions or scenarios involving a variety of packaging and materials. |