What is a Flexible Automatic Bagging Machine

The product feeding process in an automatic flexible bagging machine combines a flexible feeder and robotic picking to ensure efficient and adaptable handling of various products. A flexible feeder, such as a vibratory flexible feeder, operates by spreading and singulating parts or products randomly across a flat surface. Through controlled vibrations or movements, the feeder maintains an even flow and distribution of products. Integrated vision systems (cameras) scan the feeder platform to precisely locate each part. This information is then relayed to robotic arms, such as delta robots or 6-axis robots, which use the data to accurately pick products from the feeder.
 
✅ Why flexible feeder + vision + robot?

No need for perfect alignment of products.

Extremely fast and precise.

Works with different product types and shapes through software adjustments alone.

 

Pre-made bags or film rolls are fed into the machine. For pre-made bags, a mechanism (e.g., suction cups or grippers) picks and opens the bag mouth. For form-fill-seal (FFS) machines, flat plastic film is formed into a bag using heat sealing and shaping tools.
 
✅ In some systems, a bag opening mechanism uses support plates and cylinders to keep the bag open during filling, preventing material spillage.
 

In the bag filling process of an automatic flexible bagging machine, a robotic arm or an alternative dispensing system carefully places the picked parts into an open bag, ensuring precise and efficient loading. For discrete parts, such as screws, medical devices, or similar items, the robotic placement is particularly critical to guarantee accurate and consistent filling. The robotic arm, often a high-precision delta robot or a 6-axis robot, is guided by advanced vision systems that provide real-time data on the position and orientation of each part. This allows the robot to execute complex movements, picking individual items from the feeder and positioning them correctly within the bag to avoid misalignment or spillage. The robots are equipped with specialised grippers or end-of-arm tools tailored to the specific shape, size, and material of the parts, ensuring secure handling.
 
✅ This automated approach:

Enhances speed and accuracy in bag filling.

Adapts to different product types via software adjustments.

Accommodates varying shapes, sizes, or quantities without mechanical changes.

 

Once filled, the bag moves to a sealing station.
 
✅ Sealing methods include:

Heat sealing (for plastic bags).

Ultrasonic sealing (for specialty materials).

 

The sealed bag is dropped onto an exit conveyor or container. Optionally, a robot can stack filled bags into cartons or onto pallets automatically.

Randomly presents parts for picking

Locates parts for accurate robotic picking

Picks product and places it in the bag

Opens, fills, seals, and discharges the bag

Ensures product is securely packed