Modular Material Handling Cell

An automation workstation with a white SCARA robot mounted on a metal platform. The table has rows of various parts, such as cardboard tubes and plastic components, along with devices that have warning labels. A glass safety screen and other industrial equipment are visible in the background.

We developed an efficient and reliable robotic cell for our client to handle various tags based on radio frequency technologies (RFID and NFC).

Watch the video to see the robotic cell in action.

Efficient Tag Feeding and Handling

The RFID tag handling cell is equipped with a feeding system based on lift silos, which enables efficient tag processing. The process begins when the operator loads the tags into the silos. The user then places an order for the desired product. The system analyzes the order, and the feeder lifts the products one by one for the robot to pick up.

Precise Picking and Visual Inspection

The cell’s SCARA robot is optimized for precise pick-and-place tasks and is equipped with a gripper suited for handling tags. The robot picks up a tag and brings it to a color sensor, which checks the correct orientation of the product. Misaligned tags are removed at this stage.

RFID Coding, Laser Marking, and Packaging

Once the product passes the visual inspection, it is programmed using specialized RFID writing devices. After successful coding, the product moves to laser marking, but if coding or testing fails, the tag is placed in a reject bin. After marking, the robot places the product into its packaging.

“The client previously used an old, pneumatic-based device for handling RFID tags, but it was not reliable. The new robotic cell simplified and modernized the process, significantly improving reliability and reducing the need for constant supervision.”

Advanced User Interface and Intelligent Packaging System

The robotic cell is equipped with programmable logic controllers (PLC). The advanced user interface designed by Probot Oy provides the machine operator with all the necessary status information about the robotic cell. It displays data on RFID tag handling and the real-time status of product packaging.

The intelligent, order-number-based packaging system allows multiple orders to be processed automatically in sequence, enabling the user to queue orders for efficient and orderly packaging by the robotic cell. This was not possible with the old machine.

A white KUKA robot working in a glass-enclosed workspace. On the table in front of the robot, there are several components, such as cardboard tubes and metal parts, arranged neatly in order.

Versatile Development Potential

The robotic cell solution is specifically designed to meet the client’s needs in RFID tag handling, and expert design ensures its reliability and high performance.

The robotic cell model can be adapted for various applications through further development, making it a versatile and scalable solution for future needs across different industries:

Its compact size means the robotic cell takes up very little floor space in production facilities. It is easy to relocate if production needs change. Additionally, the cell can be customized in size and functionality to optimally match space and operational requirements.
The cell can accommodate a variety of robots, allowing for broad customization of functions to meet diverse needs.
The cell is designed to work with multiple feeding systems.
The robotic cell concept can be applied to the production of various small products, with no special requirements for the components being handled. The only limitation is the physical size of the items, making it ideal for numerous applications.