The Schubert Motion technology from packaging machine manufacturer Schubert celebrated its world premiere at FachPack 2021 packaging trade fair. The artificial intelligence (AI)-based software optimizes movements of robots and thus their performance.
For the first time at FachPack 2021 trade fair, packaging machine manufacturer Schubert presented robots featuring Schubert Motion technology. This software is based on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and optimizes the movements of the robot arms in terms of speed, while reducing vibrations. At a customer’s machine, a combination of a flow-wrapper and a cartoner, the F2 robots demonstrated the increased performance potential in the real packaging process live at the exhibition booth.
For the company, Schubert Motion represents a decisive step towards a new type of robot programming. Until now, movements had to be parameterized in a complex manner and manually tuned on the machine. “With the new software, a large part of this effort is eliminated”, explained Department Head Michael Döring. “The robots run almost automatically at high performance levels, and products and processes can be focused on immediately”. Until now, robots have been programmed to travel the shortest possible straight paths. This is not the best solution from a physical point of view, however, since the mechanical loads on arms and joints are increased by abrupt acceleration and braking manoeuvres. A slightly curved track, on the other hand, allows for smoother changes in speed and therefore, paradoxically, faster processes.
A further advantage is that the more organic movements reduce vibrations on the robot and in the machine. Thus, the entire system is subjected to less stress, which benefits process accuracy, product protection and system longevity – promising considerable advantages for Schubert customers. Michael Döring explains: “In the future, with our software we will be able to specifically address individual causes of vibration, such as soft floors, and still produce quickly”.
A single figure highlights the advantage the new programming with Schubert Motion delivers: with optimum control, the same robot can work on average around 20 % faster – without manual readjustment. Thanks to the Schubert Motion software, packaging machines can be operated at significantly higher cycle rates, enabling manufacturers to efficiently increase their production.
In addition to robot optimization, Michael Döring and his team in Dresden/Germany now also want to drive forward the topics of predictive maintenance and simulation. The expansion of the Dresden site is therefore making progress. The environment at Schubert Motion is excellent for interested developers and for pioneering digital innovations in the field of robotics: a convincing technology, a new office close to the Technical University of Dresden and, last but certainly not least, a highly qualified and committed team.
