The advantages of opting for a tape dispenser on an articulated support
An adjustable height dispenser to reduce the risk of MSDs
MSDs are often directly linked to working conditions. Posture, joint angles, the force required for application, the repetition of movements, and the duration of exposure are all factors that can promote their occurrence.
In a typical packaging station, the use of a handle-operated dispenser puts significant strain on:
- the wrist
- the elbow
- the shoulder
- the hand
- the fingers
With each box closure, the operator must pull, stretch, apply, and then cut the tape manually. When these actions are repeated several hundred times a day, they can lead to fatigue, discomfort, and the risk of injury.
Using a tape dispenser on an articulated support allows for better adaptation of the tool to the workstation and the operator.
It allows for:
- adjusting the height according to the operator's size
- adapting the angle according to the application area
- eliminating some of the repetitive wrist movements
- limiting the strain on the shoulder
- improving comfort in intensive packaging stations
- offering a more ergonomic and safer solution
- The articulated support thus allows the tape to be placed in the right spot, at the right height, and at the right angle, making the action more natural and less restrictive.
Gaining in quality while reducing adhesive consumption
With a manual dispenser, the operator often has to hold the box with one hand while manipulating the tool with the other. This arrangement is not always comfortable, especially when the box is large, unstable, or heavy.
This method can lead to application defects:
- tape applied crookedly
- poorly tensioned adhesive
- bent tape
- torn adhesive
- excessive length used to compensate for an error
- irregular closure
These defects can harm the visual quality of the packaging and lead to excessive adhesive consumption.
With an automatic dispenser installed on a stand, the operator can retrieve a strip that has already been cut to length, and then apply it more easily to the box. They can maintain better control of the action and focus on the quality of the closure.
This solution allows for:
- a straighter and more consistent application
- better control of the lengths used
- fewer application errors
- a reduction in adhesive waste
- a cleaner closure of the boxes
- a better perceived quality of the packaging
The result is both more economical and more professional.
Gaining efficiency with large boxes
Manual closure may remain acceptable for small lightweight boxes, but it becomes much less suitable as soon as the packaging is large, heavy, or bulky.
In this case, the operator sometimes has to use both hands to hold the box, adjust the flaps, or stabilise the packaging. The use of a hand dispenser then becomes less practical, even cumbersome.
With an automatic dispenser installed on an articulated support, the adhesive tape is directly available at working height. The operator can retrieve the adhesive more easily and apply it with greater precision.
This configuration allows for:
- more straightforward closure of large boxes
- more consistent application of long strips
- reduced need for assistance from a second operator
- improved flow of operations
- maintaining an efficient pace at packaging stations
A single operator can thus achieve long and clean box closures, even on bulky packaging.
Saving time on repetitive operations
A programmable dispenser on an articulated support saves time during repetitive packaging operations. The length of tape can be set in advance, which prevents the operator from having to measure, pull, and cut each strip manually.
Depending on the needs, it is possible to programme different cutting lengths to prepare:
- a long strip for the main closure of the box
- shorter strips for the sides
- specific lengths according to packaging formats
- repetitive cuts for standardised box series
This organisation allows for closures to be carried out more quickly and regularly. It also facilitates the standardisation of packaging stations, especially when the boxes used are always of the same dimensions.
The programmable dispenser allows for:
- a reduction in preparation time
- a better closure rate
- a standardisation of the lengths used
- a repeatability of operations
- a better organisation of work
The operator gains in fluidity and comfort, while maintaining a high level of precision.
Saving space at the packaging station
The installation of a fixed or articulated support also improves the organisation of the workstation. The dispenser is positioned in a dedicated area, which avoids the need to constantly move it around the table or workbench.
This configuration helps to limit clutter and to structure the packing area more clearly.
It allows for:
- defining a precise packing area
- freeing up space on the work surface
- avoiding the accumulation of tools and boxes
- improving circulation around the workstation
- making the environment cleaner and more organised
This type of installation fits perfectly into a quality approach of the 5S type, contributing to a clearer, more ergonomic, and more efficient workstation.
Why choose the RT80ARM articulated support and DERFI dispenser set?
DERFI offers a complete solution consisting of an automatic dispenser and an articulated support arm RT80ARM. This set is designed to help companies reduce repetitive movements, improve the ergonomics of packaging stations, and secure adhesive cutting operations.
The articulated arm RT80ARM can be associated with several DERFI machines, including:
- RT7000
- RT7700
- RT120W
- RT9000F
This compatibility allows the solution to be adapted to the type of tape used, the required width, and the constraints of the workstation.
An adjustable and ergonomic installation
The articulated support allows the dispenser to be positioned at the desired height, according to the operator's size and the configuration of the workspace.
It offers:
- an adjustable height
- an adjustable tilt
- tool-free positioning using levers
- a table or workbench attachment
- better accessibility to the tape
- simple adaptation to different workstations
This flexibility improves operator comfort and reduces awkward postures during repetitive operations.
A solution suitable for industrial workstations
The DERFI dispenser + articulated support set is particularly suitable for environments requiring regular adhesive distribution.
It can be used for:
- sealing cartons
- packaging parcels
- series packaging operations
- order preparation
- production lines
- intensive packaging stations
Thanks to the articulated support, the dispenser remains available in close proximity to the application area, without cluttering the work surface.
A concrete response to HSE challenges
The installation of an automatic dispenser on an articulated support directly contributes to improving working conditions. It helps to reduce repetitive movements, secure the cutting process, and improve the posture of operators.
This solution meets HSE objectives by allowing for:
- a reduction in the risk of MSDs
- a decrease in manual handling
- a secure cut
- better ergonomics of the workstation
- an improvement in operator comfort
- a cleaner and more efficient organisation
For companies wishing to improve the quality of work at their packaging stations, the DERFI articulated support combined with an automatic dispenser provides a simple, concrete, and effective solution.