Smartphone Sorting & Stacking using UR5 and Linear Track

Industry > ElectronicsApplication > Material HandlingSector > Manufacturing

This automated sorting and storage solution utilizes a Universal Robots UR5 collaborative robot mounted on a Linear Track (7th axis) to perform high-precision handling of smartphones.

By integrating 2D Vision, the system identifies the type and position of items arriving via conveyor. The 6-axis articulated robot then uses an electric gripper to sort and stack these items into specific locations. Conversely, when a retrieval command is received, the robot can pick the required items from the storage rack and move them to the discharge position. The linear track allows the robot to cover a significantly wider workspace, making it ideal for comprehensive inbound/outbound inventory management.

Components

Robot	Robot: Universal Robots UR5 Payload: 5kg Reach: 850mm Max Speed: 1m/s Repeatability: ±0.1mm (Option): Can be swapped with a Rainbow Robotics RB5. Linear Track: Extends the robot's horizontal reach to manage multiple racks or long conveyor lines. Vision System: 2D Vision for identifying SKU information and picking coordinates. End-Effector: Electric gripper (optimized for safe, scratch-free handling of electronics).

Robot

Robot: Universal Robots UR5
- Payload: 5kg
- Reach: 850mm
- Max Speed: 1m/s
- Repeatability: ±0.1mm
- (Option): Can be swapped with a Rainbow Robotics RB5.
Linear Track: Extends the robot's horizontal reach to manage multiple racks or long conveyor lines.
Vision System: 2D Vision for identifying SKU information and picking coordinates.
End-Effector: Electric gripper (optimized for safe, scratch-free handling of electronics).

Workflow

STEP 1.	Inbound: Inbound items are fed into the designated position on the conveyor.
STEP 2.	Recognition: The 2D vision system identifies the specific product item and its orientation.
STEP 3.	Sorting: The robot picks up the item and traverses the linear track to unload it at the designated storage location.
STEP 4.	Completion: Once all items are sorted and unloaded, the system sends a "Task Complete" signal to the management system.

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Features

High-ROI Automation Investment

Cost-Efficient Solution: Achieve significant labor savings and process consistency with a relatively low initial capital investment.

Rapid Deployment: The intuitive programming of the UR5 allows for faster setup compared to traditional industrial robots, accelerating the timeline to profitability.

Compact and Scalable Layout

Space Optimization: The Universal Robots UR5 features a small footprint and high maneuverability, minimizing the required installation space in cramped factory environments.

Expanded Work Envelope: By integrating a Linear Track (7th Axis), a single robot can service multiple workstations or long rows of storage racks, providing a much wider operational range than a fixed-base robot.

Maximum Operational Flexibility

Versatile Handling: Equipped with a long-stroke electric gripper (up to 85mm), the system can handle a wide variety of product sizes and shapes without changing tools.

Sensitive Force Control: Integrated Force Sensing prevents damage to delicate smartphones or electronic components, ensuring safe and secure handling.

Logistics Expansion: Leveraging deep expertise in mobile robotics, this system can be easily integrated with conveyor-type AMRs to fully automate both inbound and outbound logistics flows.

Results

ROI Period	24 months
Key Benefits	Quantitative Indicator: Reduction in Manual Labor Deployment