Robots manufacturing pallets may seem like something out of a science fiction movie. But it has become a reality. And an Oregon-based company, 7robotics, has won the “Most Innovative Solution” recognition at the latest ABB Robotics Value Provider Awards in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
This award honors creative, high-impact applications of ABB robotics technology. Selected from a competitive field of partners across North and South America, 7robotics was recognized for its Robotic Pallet Building System, developed in collaboration with Canopy Lumber Products.
The system reimagines pallet manufacturing by automating manual tasks like nailing and stacking – enhancing safety, increasing throughput, and supporting flexible, scalable production.
Key features include:
- Smart tooling with product present verification, drop detection, empty nail gun detection, automatic nail gun lubrication, and air pressure feedback
- Three safety zones and an integrated area scanner protects operators while allowing continuous production
- Multi-SKU flexibility with support for future expansion
- Intuitive and user-friendly HMI for real-time product selection, nail depth adjustment, job tracking, and stack management—reducing training time and simplifying operation
- Dramatically reduced changeovers compared to previous manual process enables efficient small-batch production and maximizes system uptime
Capable of driving up to 12,000 nails per day, the system has delivered measurable results and helped Canopy Lumber Products reduce manual handling, improve worker safety, and boost overall efficiency.
“Our goal with this system was to solve real challenges for our customer—namely, safety risks and inconsistent throughput,” said Joey Koenig, President of 7robotics. “We know robotic systems will play a bigger role in flexible manufacturing, and we’re lucky to work with an innovative customer like Canopy. To be recognized by ABB in such a strong pool of integrators is incredibly humbling.”
For more about 7robotics, go to www.7robotics.com or call (541) 236-7105.
