The pharma industry is focusing on increasing efficiencies and automation, particularly robotics, which are being used for a variety of applications including palletizing, primary packaging, product handling and cartoning. “Robotics will continue to be used to improve product quality, reduce bottlenecks and alleviate repetitive tasks,” said one respondent.
Two-thirds of companies are using robotics (primarily for packaging applications) and half of those plan to purchase more robots in the future. Of those not currently using robotics, a third of those are planning to in the future. A medical device respondent said, “We use robotics now for incoming depalletization, processing, packaging and palletizing, but we need integrated communication between the robots.” Interesting to note: 16 percent of those companies responding retain some manual procedures. Most often for assembly, secondary packaging, clinical diagnostics, hand-filled tubes and custom work.
Source:PMMI Business Intelligence, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices 2016: Trends and Opportunities in Packaging Operations.
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