Flex-Line Automation :: Integrator & Distributor of Material Handling & Robotic Solutions

Flex-Line Automation is a family-owned industrial automation company founded in 1983 and based in Chester, Illinois. Started by Orville Rinne in a barn after he recognized the potential of early FlexLink conveyor systems, the business has grown into a trusted integrator and distributor of material handling and robotic solutions while remaining a multi-generational family operation. Today, Flex-Line Automation provides complete start-to-finish automation services, including design and engineering, custom fabrication, assembly, installation, maintenance, system sales, and responsive customer support. The company emphasizes practical Midwestern ingenuity, long-term reliability, safety, and creative problem-solving for manufacturers of all sizes. It partners with leading brands such as FlexLink, mk North America, Titan Conveyors, Shibuya Hoppmann, Palomat, Global AGV, and multiple major robotics manufacturers. With over 35 years of experience, Flex-Line Automation specializes in conveyor systems, pallet handling, box erecting, and — increasingly — robotic and autonomous mobile robot integration to address labor shortages, improve throughput, enhance safety, and deliver strong return on investment.

Flex-Line Automation’s robot-based products form a significant and growing part of its portfolio. The company is an authorized integrator and distributor for several leading robotics platforms, offering both standalone robots and fully integrated robotic work cells that combine with its extensive conveyor and material handling expertise.

Key robot-based offerings include:

• MiR (Mobile Industrial Robots): Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) designed for flexible internal logistics. Models such as the MiR 200, MiR 500, and higher-payload variants can transport up to 1,000 kg. They feature easy programming, SLAM navigation, obstacle avoidance, and fleet management software (MiR Fleet) that allows coordinated operation of up to 100 robots. Top modules include pallet lifts, conveyor tops, shelf systems, towing hooks, and collaborative robotic arms mounted directly on the AMR for mobile pick-and-place or machine tending applications.

• Universal Robots (UR) collaborative robot arms: Lightweight, safe-to-operate cobots ideal for packaging, assembly, machine tending, palletizing, and quality inspection. Flex-Line Automation integrates UR arms with vision systems, end-of-arm tooling, and conveyors for flexible, redeployable solutions.

• Comau Robotics and KUKA Robotics: Full industrial robot lines offering high-payload, high-speed 6-axis arms for demanding tasks such as welding, heavy palletizing, material handling, and precision assembly. These are often deployed in fixed robotic cells surrounded by FlexLink or mk conveyors.

• BOX-EZ Box Erector Robot: A specialized robotic box erecting and forming system that automates case erection, folding, and sealing at high speeds while reducing manual labor.

• Robo-Guide and additional palletizing/depalletizing robots: Vision-guided systems for flexible, pattern-independent pallet handling.

Flex-Line Automation excels at creating hybrid solutions where conveyors, AMRs, fixed robots, and cobots work together seamlessly. The company provides engineering support, simulation, safety assessments, installation, training, and ongoing service. Its Chester, Illinois location offers central U.S. shipping access, and the firm maintains strong vendor relationships that ensure timely parts and technical support. Recent blog content focuses heavily on safety, conveyor best practices, and the practical value of robotics and AMRs in modern manufacturing.