Chapter Thirteen - Robotics for general material handling machines in food plants

Abstract

Technological advancement in food processing industries is thriving by the application of robotics for automation in material handling and conveying, which are labor-intensive processes. Research in recent times has been gearing up for the deployment of robots to improve throughput, quality, flexibility, and consistency of work while decreasing ergonomic hazards for workers. The food industry has been evolving continuously in implementing robots due to the varied characteristics of different food materials such as shapes, sizes, and more importantly their vulnerability to mechanical damage. Efforts have been proposed to design soft robots for flexible adaptation in material handling during various food processing operations. Automation of the food handling processes offers great potential for improved profitability by ensuring reliable operations and avoiding discontinuity in operations. These operations are carried out by the robot's end effectors. To develop successful robotic effectors, mechanical properties, handling difficulties, and environmental and hygiene parameter effects, must be considered for effective food handling operations with minimum damage. This chapter focuses on the mechanism of end effector robots in the food handling process, their classification, design parameters, and potential application in various food industries.