iRob Feeder
Profitable Production for Small Batch Sizes Down to 1
iRob Feeder, developed in a partnership between PROFACTOR and IH Tech, is a compact
complete solution for individual robotic bin picking. The system recognises different workpieces in different positions, grasps and positions them correctly for further processing. iRob
Feeder features a full-processing chain from 3D sensor scanning to automatic robot program
execution. Additionally, the system offers a flexible system use, short break-even time and
compact construction. The essential benefit of this industrial solution is that individual parts
no longer have to be supplied correctly sorted to the system. Companies save timeconsuming preparation of parts and workspace as the system recognises the 3D position of
the work-piece even in non-standard environments. iRob Feeder is easy to integrate and
expandable independent of the process or the product.
System Reconfiguration in the Shortest Possible Time
Using 3D object recognition the image of the current situation is analysed. This data is
forwarded to the robot, which processes all the important information. The robot calculates
which part to work with and the orientation of this work-piece. Additionally, it plans the path
for grasping the work-piece. Finally, the robot grasps the part and places it in the right
position for further processing. The system adapts to new surrounding conditions in the
shortest possible time and reconfigures itself to be able to handle new parts. Summarising,
the robot is capable of programming itself.
Industrial solution for random bin picking
The actual innovation of iRob Feeder is the complete system, i.e. the interplay of 3D image
processing, a self-programming robot and a distributed control concept. Since the desire for
compatibility is very high in the requirements profile of the industry, this new development –
both from hardware and software side – can be integrated quickly and without any major
conversion measures into existing systems. As an additional result, downtime is reduced to a
minimum.
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The Technology Behind iRob Feeder
 Robust 3D object recognition and dynamic work cell modelling
The robot must suitably perceive and interpret its surroundings for autonomous
execution of tasks as well as to learn activities, based on the input from the operator.
An important aspect is the integration of 3D image processing with the respective
object recognition.
 Real-time compatible and adaptive handling planning
The system automatically creates a collision-free trajectory plan for picking the
unprepared or non-isolated parts using an online connection. iRob Feeder knows how
to grasp the work-pieces and avoids obstacles.
 Real-time compatible and reactive downstream process planning
Based on the expert knowledge transfered from the user, downstream processes and
further processing are planned for the identified and localised parts. By incorporating
different sensor signals, the system can react online to discrepancies in the model of
the surroundings and accordingly adapt the manipulation process.
 Combining autonomous and user-guided operation
The combination of autonomous and user-guided operation is an important aspect of
the robotic system. If the robot cannot process the current task, it switches to manual
operation. The input from the remote operator is recorded and learned by the system
for later processing of the same task. In autonomous mode, the robot controller has
all the knowledge and skills necessary for processing the task. Although, in
semiautomatic mode, the robot has the required skills to complete the task, input is
required for support through the “expert interface”.
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The Benefits of iRob Feeder
 Profitable production
Reduction of costs is accomplished due to innovative industrial solution focusing on
processes involving large, bulky and often rotationally symmetric parts. Batch sizes
can be reduced down to lot size 1. Work-pieces used to be transported manually in
the past, whereas now it is possible to accomplish this task by robotic applications.
The instant results are higher product quality and a decrease of the human workload.
 Manufacture of product variations
On one hand, iRob Feeder makes product individualisation possible, and on the other
hand, mass production that is individualised for customers. Measures to increase
quality can be carried out faster and cheaper.
 Reduction of scheduled production downtimes
A distributed control concept enables quick and easy integration in a production
system.
 Cost savings in the area of software adaptation
Per person and day, high costs have to be calculated for programming robots or
automation equipment. In the area of industrial robots, iRob Feeder can reduce this
expense by nearly 90 percent.
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Images for download can be found on our website http://www.profactor.at
You can easily download the pictures clicking on the menu item
Public Relations / Media / Image Gallery
Technical contact person:
Dr. Andreas Pichler
Head of the Robotics and Adaptive Systems Department
Tel.: +43 (0)7252 885-306
Email: andreas.pichler@profactor.at
Media contact:
Kathrin Riedlecker Bakk. Komm.
Manager Corporate Communication
Tel. +43 (0) 7252 885-141
e-mail: kathrin.riedlecker@profactor.at
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