TPT November 2024

TECHNOLOGY

Robotic handling of randomly stored steel bar and tube

process, the system deploys an optical sensor to scan the storage cassette, which can be up to six metres in length. An algorithm developed by Kasto processes the 3D point cloud generated by the scan. Intelligent software analyses the data to identify the location of each stock item as well as potential gripping points for the robots. Points are only considered if they allow stock to be picked up and deposited without collision. The software then optimises movement to the target position, after which the process starts anew with the next scan. The handling system communicates with the stockholder’s resource planning system to provide the right material at the right time and location if on-site processing is required, such as cutting to length by a saw. The software also directs placement of material to ensure that it is stacked in an ideal pattern

GERMAN sawing machine and storage system manufacturer Kasto has introduced an automated magnetic handling system for long stock, enabling steel stockholders to speed and simplify order picking. KASTOpick bar is available in the UK and Ireland through the group’s subsidiary in Milton Keynes – Kasto Ltd – which will supply the equipment with newly purchased storage and retrieval systems or retrofit it within existing warehouse operations. Automatically handling long stock that has been placed randomly in a cassette is challenging, as the position of each item is difficult to predict. KASTOpick bar incorporates a pair of robots that allows users to autonomously pick magnetic bright drawn or black steel material of flat, square or round cross section, both bar and tube, lying in any orientation. There is no need for users to teach in the robot movements. To start the

for bundling and strapping, based on material dimensions and order volume. In its standard version, KASTOpick bar handles loads up to 500kg, although systems capable of lifting heavier loads may be supplied on request. The new, twin-robot KASTOpick bar system for automatically picking up long stock

Kasto Ltd www.kasto.com

22

www.read-tpt.com

NOVEMBER 2024