Small manufacturing companies in particular face the problem of small batch sizes
with frequently changing parts. Up until now, special grid plates that have been
customised for each blank have been used to feed the processing machines. The
blanks are placed on these grid plates so the robot can follow the fixed grid pattern as
it retrieves blanks. There is a huge amount of work involved in producing a
customised grid plate for each blank and training the robot to follow a new grid
pattern. The time-consuming changeovers and high costs involved have a direct
impact on a business’s competitiveness and make the system unappealing to many
users.

This new AI-based solution also resolves a particular technical challenge that has so far proved problematic for camera systems – the handling of highly reflective component surfaces. Besides preventing operator errors and reducing both changeover time and the working time involved for users, this system also makes a key contribution to quality assurance. Consequently, camera-based robotics will finally make both technological and economic sense for small companies, too. As part of the smart analytics cooperation network, the “KiKaRo” project is being funded by the Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM) run by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). 

Interested companies can get in touch with BioRegio STERN Management GmbH by sending an email to info@bioregio-stern.de or phoning +49 711-870354-0.

About smart analytics

The Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM) run by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) is funding an international cooperation network – smart analytics – for the development of intelligent and innovative analytical methods. BioRegio STERN Management GmbH is coordinating the international smart analytics ZIM network in Germany. The project is being funded by the BMWK and includes 32 partners from Europe. As part of the project, the project partners are being given targeted support so they can submit applications for research and development to ZIM.

About SHERPA Robotics GmbH

SHERPA Robotics is the market leader for camera-controlled automation of CNC machines. This Stuttgart-based company develops and manufactures industrial robot cells for small and medium-sized production batches. Its unique combination of a 3D camera and laser technology is revolutionising the set-up of new production jobs – and the system couldn’t be easier to operate. Machine operators with no robotics expertise can automate repetitive, unappealing tasks with ease. The company’s mission is to boost its customers’ competitiveness – with customers ranging from SMEs in the metal and plastic manufacturing sector to corporate groups such as SIEMENS and BoschRexroth. You can find more information about the company at www.sherpa-robotics.com/en/.