Industrial robotics plays a key role in the modernisation of manufacturing processes, particularly in the wood industry, where efficiency, precision, and repeatability are critical factors. Within this context, ESI Robotics developed a robotic CNC cell designed to fully automate the handling of coated wood panels.
This case study shows how CNC automation and machine tending can transform a traditional process into a continuous, reliable, and highly productive system.
The Challenge of CNC Automation
In the wood industry, CNC operations often involve repetitive manual tasks, which directly affect productivity, process consistency, and operator working conditions. The challenge was to develop a solution capable of:
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- automating CNC machine loading and unloading;
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- reducing downtime between machining cycles;
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- ensuring high positioning accuracy;
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- integrating manual inspection without affecting production flow.
The Solution Developed by ESI Robotics
To address these challenges, a fully integrated robotic CNC cell was developed, responsible for the entire part-handling workflow. The solution automatically performs:
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- pallet reception of coated wood panels;
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- depalletizing;
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- precise positioning of panels in the customer’s CNC machine;
- - integration of machine vision systems to ensure correct part positioning;
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- removal of panels after machining;
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- final palletizing of finished products.
This system ensures a continuous, stable production flow aligned with the demands of the wood industry.
Dual Gripper and Continuous CNC Feeding
One of the key differentiators of this robotic cell is the dual gripper, designed to allow the robot to handle two panels simultaneously. While a machined panel is removed from the CNC and prepared for palletizing, the next panel is kept ready for insertion into the machine. This allows the robot to remain on standby with a part prepared, ensuring immediate replacement as soon as the CNC cycle ends.
This approach eliminates downtime and directly contributes to increased productivity.
3D and 2D Vision Systems for Maximum Precision
The robotic cell integrates 3D and 2D vision systems responsible for reading and validating part positioning before insertion into the CNC machine. This system ensures:
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- correct part orientation;
- - high positioning accuracy;
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- repeatability throughout the process;
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- significant reduction of operational errors.
Integrated Manual Inspection
Despite the high level of automation, the solution was designed to allow manual inspection whenever required. During the production cycle, the operator can request a panel for inspection. In this case, the robot places the machined panel on an inspection table instead of palletizing it. The operator can then access the drawer, safely remove the panel, and carry out an inspection without interrupting the operation of the cell.
This case study demonstrates how CNC automation with industrial robotics can deliver real value to the wood industry, combining operational efficiency, precision, and reliability.
At ESI Robotics, we develop tailor-made solutions focused on real industrial challenges, supported by advanced technology and a forward-looking approach.
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