As manufacturers across Italy continue to look for smarter and more flexible ways to automate production, system integrators play a key role in turning automation technologies into practical, reliable solutions. For CMA Srl, an Italian company specializing in industrial automation integration, the focus is on designing complete production systems that respond directly to each customer's needs. 

We spoke with Francesco Casaburi, Sales Technician at CMA Srl, to learn more about the company's approach to automation, the growing interest in collaborative robots, and how JAKA cobots are helping CMA develop compact and adaptable solutions for its customers. 

Designing Automation Around the Customer 

CMA's core business is the design and implementation of end-of-line systems and machine-feeding solutions, developed specifically according to individual customer requirements. 

The company works with leading manufacturers including Magneti Marelli, Seda, and Kimbo, supporting customers across industries such as automotive, food, and pharmaceuticals.

From feeding production machines to case packing and automated palletizing, CMA delivers complete production-line solutions that combine different technologies into a single integrated system. 

"Our customers mainly rely on us for the design and implementation of complete production lines, including production machine feeding systems, product case packing, and integration with automatic palletizing islands," explains Casaburi. 

Automation as a Response to Changing Production Needs

For many manufacturers today, automation is no longer simply about increasing output. Companies are also looking for ways to make better use of their workforce by reducing repetitive tasks and allowing employees to focus on more specialized, higher-value activities. 

According to CMA, this is one of the main drivers behind current customer demand. 

Automation can help manufacturers create production processes that are more efficient, reliable, and consistent, while supporting production continuity and reducing the potential for human error. 

At the same time, choosing the right automation technology requires a clear understanding of what each solution can and cannot do. 

Understanding What Cobots Can—and Cannot—Do 

The concept of collaborative robots, or cobots, is becoming increasingly familiar among Italian manufacturers. However, CMA sees an important gap between recognizing the term "cobot" and fully understanding the technology. 

One misconception the company frequently encounters is the idea that a cobot can simply replace a traditional industrial robot while operating at the same speed, without additional safety considerations. 

In reality, cobot applications must be assessed according to their specific operating conditions, safety requirements, payload, speed, tooling, and risk assessment. 

"One of the most common misconceptions is the belief that cobots can operate at the same speeds as traditional industrial robots without the need for protective measures," says Casaburi. "It is essential to clarify that cobots must also comply with specific safety and application parameters." 

For an integrator such as CMA, technical consultancy is therefore an important part of the automation process—not only selecting the right robot, but also helping customers understand how it should be integrated into their production environment. 

Three Years of Collaboration with JAKA 

CMA has been collaborating with JAKA Robotics for almost three years. The company decided to add JAKA cobots to its automation portfolio based on their combination of reliability, ease of use, and versatility across different industrial applications.

These characteristics are particularly valuable for an integrator developing customized solutions for different customers and production environments. 

Rather than approaching automation as a one-size-fits-all solution, CMA looks at where collaborative robots can provide a practical advantage—especially where flexibility, compactness, and ease of programming are important. 

A Compact Solution for Box Forming 

One of CMA's most significant projects with JAKA is a box-forming system based on the JAKA Zu 12 cobot. 

The solution has received excellent feedback from the market, particularly because of its compact design and efficiency. Its small footprint allows it to be integrated into production environments where available space is limited. 

Another important advantage is the speed and simplicity of format changes. Instead of requiring lengthy mechanical adjustments, operators can make format changes through software settings, helping to reduce machine downtime. 

The system also benefits from a limited number of mechanical components, which contributes to reduced maintenance requirements. 

For manufacturers dealing with multiple product formats, this combination of flexibility, compactness, and simplified maintenance can make a significant difference to day-to-day production. 

Why Choose a Cobot? 

CMA sees cobots as particularly valuable for companies taking their first steps into automation. 

They can be a strong option when customers need to control investment costs, when applications do not require extremely high speeds, or when the payload requirements do not involve particularly heavy loads. 

Compared with traditional industrial robots, cobots can offer advantages in terms of: 

• Flexibility – they can be adapted to different tasks and production requirements. 

• Ease of integration – their design can make them suitable for a wider range of production environments. 

• Simpler programming – programming and setup can be more accessible for operators and technicians. 

• Compact solutions – cobots can help integrators develop automation for applications where floor space is limited. 

For CMA, the key is not to view cobots as a replacement for every traditional robot, but as another valuable tool in the automation toolbox. 

Getting the Implementation Right 

While cobots can simplify many aspects of automation, successful implementation still requires technical knowledge. 

CMA identifies understanding the limitations and correct use of cobots as one of the main challenges customers face at the beginning of a project. Expectations need to be aligned with the actual capabilities of the technology, while the application itself must be correctly assessed. 

Training is another important factor. 

"Another common issue is the belief that these solutions can be used without personnel having at least basic industrial robotics skills," says Casaburi. "For this reason, we always recommend dedicated training programs for operators and technicians involved." 

For CMA, this combination of technical consultancy, appropriate application design, and operator training is essential to achieving a successful automation project. 

Looking Ahead: Making Automation More Accessible 

The Italian automation market continues to evolve, and CMA sees strong potential for further growth. As manufacturers become increasingly familiar with cobots, the next step is helping them understand where collaborative automation can deliver genuine value. 

The experience of CMA demonstrates that successful cobot integration is about more than the robot itself. It is about combining the right technology with application expertise and a clear understanding of the customer's production needs. 

Through its collaboration with JAKA Robotics, CMA is continuing to develop automation solutions that are compact, flexible, easy to adapt, and designed around real production challenges—helping Italian manufacturers take practical steps toward smarter automation.