Smart Bin
Technology
Improve Random Bin Picking with Smart Bin Technology
At Feedall Automation, our business is simple: We feed robots. We’ve developed a long list of automation equipment that efficiently presents parts to better optimize robotic cells used in manufacturing facilities. But we haven’t stopped working to solve a persistent, remaining problem for further robot implementation: random bin picking.
Overview
Since 1946, Feedall Automation has provided the most advanced line parts feeding systems available. We’re applying this experience to developing solutions for the random bin picking dilemma, approaching the issue from a new side of the equation.
Here, bulk parts—rods, billets, bolts, nuts, etc.—are moved from a holding area (bin, tote, etc.) to the next stage of production by a robotic device. The challenge for the robotic picking system is to deliver order out of the chaos in such an environment. Picking randomly positioned parts from a bin and placing them precisely into a machine is a simple task for a human, but fully automating the task with robotics and machine vision has been elusive.
Robots must be able to grasp parts in an infinite number of orientations and reach deep into the corners of the bin — all while avoiding collisions with the bin, other parts, or the work cell itself. Random bin picking is further complicated by the existence of complex, asymmetrical, and easily entangled parts, and poor lighting conditions typical to production environments.
Feedall has developed Smart Bin Technology which, when partnered with the appropriate vision and robotic system, addresses many of the issues facing random bin picking. This patented parts handling technology alleviates many traditional bin picking challenges, including:
- Long cycle times
- Speed of vision recognition
- Random part recognition
- Upfront cost of 3D vision
- Robotic collision issues
- Inability to clear bin
- Long workpiece recognition training
- Structured vs. random part positioning
With the introduction of the Smart Bin Technology, we seek to maintain our reputation of leading the industrial part feeding market. Please connect with our team to learn more about this custom automation solution and how it can impact your manufacturing operations and further efficiency to bin picking processes.
Whether it’s through our Smart Bin Technology or any of our other automation equipment solutions our team has the expertise to improve your processes with the best fits in equipment, software, and technology for your specific application.
