AUTOMATICA n collaboration between robots and factory workers without protective barriers or fences. At Automatica, ABB demonstrated the GoFa 12 cobot performing precision machine-tending and palletising applications. On Schunk’s stand, visitors could see one of the cobots using grippers and tools in a polishing application. Also at Automatica, ABB launched an “ABB Robotics Ecosystem” programme that brings together third-party accessories such as grippers, cameras and customised software that are compatible with its robots. https://new.abb.com/products/robotics Cobot rides on an autonomous mobile platform A cobot mounted on a mobile platform was one of Kuka’s innovations at Automatica. The KMR iisy mobile cobot can move safely through work areas for flexible use at assembly workstations, in logistics and as a robot service system. The cobot can carry payloads of 11 or 15kg, while the mobile platform can carry an additional 200kg. A single smartPad Pro teaching pendant operates both the cobot and the platform, avoiding the need for a second operating device. The combined cobot/platform has low particle and emission properties, allowing it to be used in cleanrooms to perform tasks such as pick-and-place, material transport and palletising. Also new on the Kuka stand was a mobile platform that can transport materials and workpieces weighing up to 1.5 tonnes around a factory floor and position them precisely at their destination. The KMP 1500P platform has a 60mm lifting height and can travel at speeds of up to 1.8m/s without a load, or 1.5m/s when loaded. Both mobile systems can be fitted with 3D cameras, and safety laser scanners and are designed to operate safely in complex, dynamic environments, where they can adapt autonomously to their surroundings. www.kuka.com Automated bin-picker works with any make of robot or gripper The Italian robotics and automation manufacturer Comau has developed a binpicking technology that can be used with any make of robot, bin or gripper to recognise, locate and grasp up to 40 randomly placed items per minute. The MI.RA Picker uses two high-resolution laser sensors and a central camera, combined with virtual simulation tools and predictive algorithms, to optimise path management and achieve collision-free trajectories, while lowering costs and potential risks. Comau says that the automated picking system is a cost-effective, reliable way to automate complex bin- and piece-picking operations. It eliminates the need for manual sorting activities, improving both productivity and operator well-being. And because items can be dumped into bins instead of being placed in an orderly manner, the picker system can cut upstream processing times while ensuring a simple logistics flow without needing rigid fixtures or to handle parts individually. The system combines 3D vision with an intuitive programming interface to deliver “best-in-class” picking precision and efficiency for single or multiple bins, each up to 1m deep and containing unorganised rigid parts whose orientation and arrangement is unpredictable. “Comau’s ongoing commitment to shaping innovation through advanced automation is seen in our ability to make complex technology more accessible and effective,” says Nicole Clement, head of the company’s advanced automation solutions business. “We believe – based on internal estimates and supporting market research – that the random bin- and piece-picking market could reach $1.2bn by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 76% from 2019 to 2025. “In this light, our novel approach to intelligent random bin-picking for machine tending, pick-and-place and kitting operations, among others, will undoubtedly help our customers increase both their process quality and production capacity.” www.comau.com Comau’s automated bin-picker can identify and grasp up to 40 randomly oriented items per minute Kuka’s KMR iisy mobile cobot platform can carry workpieces around a plant
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