The challenge
Marble is a natural material, which means that every component differs in size, surface and shape. Automation therefore requires the robot to work on the actual component rather than a fixed theoretical model, without having to reprogram the system every time. It must also be possible to perform multiple machining operations in sequence without stopping the robotic cell or requiring a permanent operator at the machine.
Our solution
For Big Graniti, a marble and natural stone company based in the Cavaion Veronese area, we developed a robotic cell based on a KUKA robot. A component scanning system detects the actual component inside the system and automatically adapts the robot toolpaths to its real geometry. An automatic tool magazine allows the robot to change tools autonomously and move from one machining operation to the next within the same production cycle. The robotic system was integrated into a fully automated natural stone processing plant, increasing production capacity while reducing risks to operator health and safety. The robot communicates with the other systems in the plant to manage safety functions, exchange data and provide real-time production statistics. The automatic tool magazine manages tool changes safely and autonomously, without operator intervention.
Four key strengths
- Component scanning system: the robot works on the actual geometry rather than a theoretical model, reducing waste and eliminating manual rework.
- KUKA robot: industrial-grade mechanics, precision and long-term reliability
- Automatic tool magazine: multiple machining operations can be performed sequentially, with tool changes and format changes without production stoppages or operator intervention.
- Safety and reliability: the robot automatically adapts the machining process to the actual component, maximizing process effectiveness while eliminating manual correction operations.
