Reliable Veneer Handler with AI Sortation
Ensures Consistent Output
Improves Quality
Sophisticated AI controls processes
Reduces Labor Costs
Introducing the Veneer Panel Handler with AI Sortation, a state-of-the-art solution transforming sawmill operations with advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI). This innovative robot meticulously sorts veneer, precisely placing each piece in its designated location for optimal efficiency.
Veneer Handlers incorporate Intelligent Agents to see and predict objects and events, recommend actions and report on important metrics. It’s AI can be trained to make human-like decisions consistently and quickly. Here, the Intelligent Agent is identfying Knots, Splits and Holes on a veneer panel. The Veneer Handler can automatically place the sheet in the apropriate location based on user defined thresholds.
Veneer Panel Handler: What It Can Do
This robotic workcell can automate the process of moving veneer and plywood panels to and from stacks, conveyors and other machinery. Here are some of the key capabilities:
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Reliably Handle Veneer and Panels
The Wood Sorter can handle veneer and plywood of varying sizes including 4x4, 4x8 and larger pieces. -
Operate in Brownfield and Greenfield Locations
Wood sorters can be used at Green chain, dryer infeed, dryer outfeed, full sheet and composed layup line automation points.
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Reduce Production Stoppage Events
Using sophisticated AI, Wood Sorters can predict issues before they happen - prompting staff to intervene prior to a machine failure. They can prompt staff intervention and stop or slow conveyers. -
Operate with Precision
Wood Sorters can stack veneer with an accuracy of one-quarter to one-eight of an inch to their targets.
Veneer Panel Handlers with AI sortation arrange this paneling after the Intelligent Agent inspects each panel for knots, holes, and split defects. Panels meeting user-defined thresholds are accurately placed in the accepted stack, while those that do not meet specifications are sorted into a rejection stack. The entire process is automated and controlled by an AI model trained with unobtrusive video collected onsite, eliminating the need for human intervention.
Applications for Veneer Panel Handlers
Examples of process steps where Panel Handler adds value
Location | Value |
Clipper/Chipper Infeed | Eliminate downtime at machine centers clearing jams |
Dryer Infeed | Eliminate Headcount at Dryer Infeed |
Dryer Outfeed | Clear doubles, wads off dryer infeed prior to entry into grade line. Eliminate headcount at 90 degree turns. |
Layup line | Increase line throughput, quality of output and reduce waste from downstream |
Core/99” Saw Infeed | Prevent Core saws from being loaded incorrectly |
Sander | Identify line management of sander related defects |
Package Quality | Reduced quality labor, increased value |
Unauthorized entry | More secure and safe environment, reduced incidents |
Veneer Panel Handler Specifications
This robotic workcell has an 8'x10' footprint and can automate the process of moving veneer and plywood panels to and from stacks, conveyors and other machinery.
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Accepts stacks of 4'x8' veneer up to 36" tall
Infeed stacked veneer sheets can have up to ± 3" variation in placement. -
Places individual 4'x8' veneer sheets onto a layup conveyor moving up to 150ft / min
Able to place accurately 0-0.5 inches from lug of conveyor with <± 3/8" skew.
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Detects and rejects visible debris
Automatically alerts when debris is detected to minimize stopped line recovery time. -
Detects out of spec veneer panels
Detects broken corners, narrow spots, open defects and splits.
Veneer Panel Handlers leverage Intelligent Agents to lower the barrier of introducing reliable and effective machine learning. Manufacturers can easily build complex processes using simple, easy-to-use web interfaces. These processes can do everything from control complex robotics movements to identifying objects.