Automation is no longer the exclusive domain of large-scale manufacturers. As market demands shift towards smaller batch sizes, mass customisation, and JIT production, smaller companies are finding themselves under increasing pressure to match the flexibility and efficiency of their larger competitors.
The Q-Line – shown here in combination with the BHS180 board handling system – offers maximum efficiency, precision and automation in industrial packaging production.
Beyond productivity, automation brings reliability. Fewer manual touchpoints mean fewer errors. In times of staff shortages, automation can help bridge the gap. It takes over repetitive, monotonous tasks, allowing employees to focus on more value-adding work. In doing so, it reduces physical strain and mental fatigue, while improving workplace safety by eliminating manual steps.
Zünd has long recognised the value of automation. For over 40 years, the Swiss company has been a pioneer in digital flatbed cutting systems. Today, Zünd offers one of the most comprehensive portfolios of automation solutions across both hardware and software.
In modern cutting workflows, nearly every stage can be automated — from pre-processing material handling to post-cut stacking. The cutting process itself is inherently digital and automated. On the cutter, tasks such as tool changes, material detection, and job recognition are increasingly handled without human intervention. Robotic systems can be integrated to automate loading and unloading processes, offering remarkable flexibility. They can be reconfigured quickly to meet new production requirements.
Zünd’s software plays a critical role in pre-press automation, taking over many of the tasks that used to be handled manually. This speeds up preparation phase while reducing errors.
Automation and robotics are central to Industry 4.0. Equipped with intelligent sensors, communication interfaces, analytics tools, machine learning, and AI, today’s systems are capable of making data-driven decisions in real time. Machine learning is playing a growing role in digital cutting workflows. It’s used for identifying optimisation potential, detecting material flaws, improving material utilisation, and optimising cutting efficiency. It also enables robotic systems to autonomously load and unload cutting tables.
Yet, intelligent automation is not a plug-and-play solution. It depends on expert consultation. This is where Zünd sets itself apart. With decades of industry experience and a strong partner network — including close collaboration with Danish robotics specialist Robotfactory — Zünd supports customers in identifying key pain points, defining automation goals, and implementing solutions that are technically and economically sound.
Productivity is the primary goal of any automation strategy. That means increasing output, efficiency, and quality while reducing downtime. But intelligent automation also requires discernment. Not every task can or should be automated. Machines cannot replace human creativity, adaptability, and intuition. Contrary to past predictions, the factory of the future will not be a dark, fully autonomous facility devoid of people.
Instead, automation is becoming an enabler. A necessity for companies that want to stay competitive in an increasingly dynamic market. The goal is not to eliminate the human role, but to elevate it — freeing employees from repetitive tasks and allowing them to focus on higher-value activities.
Automation isn’t just about improving output or increasing margins. It’s also about people. And about the evolving expectations of a new generation of operators. Finding operators willing to spend their days manually loading and unloading material is becoming increasingly difficult. Today’s workforce is looking for clean, safe, and technology-driven work environments.
This is where automation — particularly robotic handling — becomes a game changer. Zünd’s customers are not only increasing their efficiency. They’re also creating attractive, future-ready workplaces. Roles shift from manual labour to system supervision, and quality control.
In many cases, automation is no longer a matter of optimisation — it’s a basic requirement for remaining operational. It ensures continuity in the face of labour shortages and secures the long-term viability of production processes.
