FlexLink introduces RC12 palletizing cobot arm

Material handling systems provider FlexLink, a Coesia company, recently launched the RC12, its third-generation collaborative palletizer.

Designed to enhance efficiency and safety in end-of-line operations, FlexLink said the RC12 robot arm system can provide a streamlined, flexible palletizing system for demanding manufacturing environments requiring no robotics programming skills to operate.

Building on over a decade of experience in collaborative palletizing, FlexLink has developed its newest generation of RC12 to meet the growing demand for smarter and safer palletizing systems. The cobot can help optimize manufacturing processes by combining automation technology with ease of use and a space-saving design.

“With the RC12, we have developed a compact, versatile, and easy-to-integrate collaborative palletizing solution that helps manufacturers address operational challenges efficiently while ensuring seamless interaction between operators and automation,” said Judith Brockmann, FlexLink head of product management.

Cobot features safety systems, user-friendly interface

FlexLink said the RC12 integrates robotic technology with features that can help simplify production workflows. Its compact design reduces the required floor space by more than 50% compared to traditional industrial robots, making it suitable for production lines with limited space.

Its redesigned base includes an enlarged electrical cabinet for easy customization, maintenance, and access, ensuring long-term reliability and operational flexibility. The standardized base can help ensure consistent performance, while its customizable features allow adaptation to specific operational needs.

Safety was a primary consideration of FlexLink during the development of RC12. The system operates without barriers, cages, or additional safety elements and meets ISO/TS 15066 safety standards for cobots. Its redesigned gripper and additional safety padding allow safe interaction between workers and the machine, helping to protect operators while maintaining efficiency.

Another defining feature of the cobot is its ease of use. Its integrated user interface and Robot Config palletizing software allow operators to create and adjust pallet patterns in minutes without requiring programming skills. FlexLink said this human-machine interaction can reduce setup time, improve production efficiency, and minimize downtime.

With a capacity to palletize up to 14 cases per minute using a double-pick gripper, and compatibility with various production layouts and packaging lines, FlexLink said the RC12 can offer adaptability to meet evolving production demands.

Want to learn more about picking with robot arms and automation? This article was featured in the April 2025 Robotics 24/7 Special Focus Issue titled “Pick-and-place robots take on lifting applications.”