NEWS
IK4-TEKNIKER has been involved in the European project FLECOOP to automate and improve the efficiency of order processing systems, a somewhat most complex issue, as end-of-line interventions still have to performed manually at logistic distribution centres.
Nowadays, most product sorting systems used for parcels and shipments in storage spaces and distribution centres are not automated which means that 90% of the tasks performed are done manually.
In recent years, attempts have been made to further develop solutions allowing tasks to be automated to achieve a number of specific goals.
FLECOOP, the European project, is addressing the use of product handling robots that can work collaboratively in spaces where people are also present.
The project has also focused on designing mobile handling solutions in which robots are equipped with a second arm that allows them to move more freely when processing an order. These robots can share workspaces with people and there is no need to install any physical guards to guarantee total safety.
The decision taken with regard to incorporating collaborative robots has meant that a number of technical challenges had to be addressed with regard to systems characterised by a large number of degrees of freedom and feature information delivered by sensors and also monitor work environments to guarantee safe robot behaviour.
In order to meet all the above mentioned requirements, the end results consists in a flexible picking solution designed for warehouses in which robots assist technical staff in order processing and preparation tasks.
It is within the framework of this project that IK4-TEKNIKER has developed a pilot solution featuring an object identification system that combines 2D & 3D viewing techniques to achieve a more intelligent behaviour that is fully adapted to working conditions present in a collaborative environment.
This initiative has been developed by a Basque consortium in which not only IK4-TEKNIKER has been involved, but also a company specialising in logistic solutions called ULMA Handling Systems together with the Group of Robotics and Standalone Systems (RSAIT) of the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU).
The project has received an award under the EUROC project, a European Commission platform set up in 2015 in a number of European consortiums are competing with each other to offer the best solutions in the field of robotics.
