Fairino FR5: Changing packaging is swallowing our automation effort

AlexBarnes0559 · 16 Apr 2026, 19:52 UTC

Reply to discussion
AL
AlexBarnes0559
Our proposed use of Fairino FR5 is pouch-to-tray loading with a sealed flexible pouch in a low-volume order packing area, starting with 89. Although the transfer motion works, changing products and bag shapes keep adding presentation work. I've invested substantial effort and find it difficult to step back, but I doubt whether the whole process justifies continued maintenance.

6 replies

JO
JoAli0244
Replying to AlexBarnes0559

What happens when you include fixture adjustment and operator help in the comparison with manual packing? That's the process you're deciding whether to keep

10 points
AL
AlexBarnes0559
Replying to JoAli0244

@JoAli0244 Including fixture work and operator assistance leaves our manual baseline competitive. The motion is repeatable after preparation, but preparing the changing packages keeps expanding beyond what we originally allowed.

17 points
JO
JoAli0244
Replying to AlexBarnes0559

Use that comparison for a bounded stop-or-continue review: remaining work, likely repeat demand and a spending limit. Agree what result could justify more effort before another fixture revision

17 points
AL
AlexBarnes0559
Replying to JoAli0244

I'm struggling with how to treat the development we've already done. Although that effort can't be recovered, a stop decision feels as though it would discard everything we learned.

14 points
AN
AnikaBrown0943
Replying to AlexBarnes0559

I stopped a separate packing trial after the inputs kept changing. Keeping the fixture drawings and observations helped me see a useful experiment instead of a missing success story.

20 points
JO
JoAli0244
Replying to JoAli0244

A competitive manual baseline appears sufficient to support closure here. I think the comparison has answered whether to continue

20 points

Add to the discussion

Welcome to Application Robot

Everyone can read the forum. Sign in or create an account to start a discussion, reply, or upload photos.

Forgot your password?

By creating an account, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and community guidelines. Read our Privacy Policy for how your information is handled.