The introduction of collaborative robots has made the programming of robots themselves much easier and intuitive. Thanks to the widespread use of new methods of control, such as gravity compensation, it is now possible to move collaborative robots without great physical effort. In combining these benefits with those coming from robots’ self-learning abilities, it is no longer necessary to use teach-pendant controls and jogging axes in order to set up the movements of the robot’s arm. On the contrary, it is possible to reach the same result by manually moving the end-effector in the desired positions.

The same principle could be applied to automatic numerical control machines by making some changes to the current systems, both in terms of axes control as well as safety. The ultimate goal is programming the movements of the device by manually moving the CNC spindle in the desired positions.

The project has taken into account working centers with moving portals, which have been designed specifically for high-speed processing of composite materials and light alloys. In this case, the automatic movement of the spindle is programmed through a teach-pendant control system which focuses its attention on specific aspects, such as the origin of the piece or its framework. The present study has led to the definition of the necessary mechanics and control-related amendments needed to equip the machines with this innovative function.

Companies that work on single orders or small batches sometimes find themselves in the position of investing in specific technologies for a single order, which does not justify the acquisition of internal know-how for possible future re-use.

Therefore, a situation in which machines or devices are under-exploited or even completely unused is highly possible.

• Technical analysis of the robot and solution’s design
• Development of the application and the demonstrator
• Lab tests
• Test execution in the operational environment
• Solution’s validation

The project has been tested using a welding robot. The set up of these kinds of robots is usually carried out through a programming interface which requires specific expertise. The project has developed an intuitive programming interface that enables any human operator to “teach” the robot the task it is supposed to carry out. The system memorizes every step of the manual welding process, either in point-to-point or continuous mode. At the end of the first operation, the robot is independently capable of repeating the same welding on an identical piece placed in the same position.

Tests have been carried out using the self-learning method which enables the user to move the robot’s end-effector just as if they were using the welding torch.

Tests have shown that the self-taught tasks can be repeated a number of times, giving optimal results. Furthermore, the system guarantees a high programming flexibility thanks to its fast learning skills.

Due to the effects of globalization, textile companies have experienced the need to significantly improve the quality of their products in order to keep up with competitors from developing countries.

To increase the textile quality means to increase accuracy and control on production plants. To this end, Intellimech has supported a textile company in the design of a modern device for woven tape production. It is equipped with the latest automation and robotic technology.

Thanks to this innovative machine, the factory has been able to assure maximum consistency in woven tape quality and, consequently, maximize the quality of raw materials for all subsequent stages.