Robotic automation for productivity, flexibility and process control
Complete automation for edge grinding and polishing
The system manages the loading, processing and unloading of the stone slabs, ensuring a continuous, uninterrupted workflow.
Up to 50% increase in productivity
Lightweight grippers and optimised software reduce cycle times and boost line efficiency.
Flexible configuration
From a single robot paired with a polishing machine to a fully integrated multi-machine cell: the system adapts and scales to meet production requirements.
More operator safety and less repetitive manual work
By replacing manual slab handling with a robot, the system reduces direct operator involvement in the most repetitive stages and keeps the line running without downtime between pieces. This results in shorter processing times, optimised workshop space and greater operational safety, especially when handling large and heavy pieces.
Complete process control
Intuitive interfaces and centralised data enable real-time monitoring and diagnostics across the entire line.
BRS Technical Specifications
Customised modular configurations
BRS automates edge processing using a modular configuration that can be adapted to the customer’s layout and production requirements. The system can incorporate one or more robots, be installed in-line or organised as an independent production cell.
7-axis robot
In the most advanced configuration, a robot is mounted on a linear rail and operates on 7 axes: the seventh axis extends the operating range, enabling it to serve multiple machines and workstations along the entire line more smoothly, whilst optimising handling paths.
Automated loading and unloading
The system features dedicated stations for loading and unloading sheets, managed by the robot along the entire line. This enables a continuous workflow, with no interruptions between one sheet and the next, reducing the downtime typically associated with manual handling.
Connected and traceable
The system complies with Industry 4.0 protocols: the cells can operate without the constant presence of an operator and are fully connected to enable process traceability and the self-regulation of production parameters, with real-time monitoring and diagnostics.
7-AXIS ROBOT
In the most advanced configuration of the BRS, a robot is mounted on a linear rail and operates on 7 axes rather than the traditional 6. The seventh axis extends the robot’s operating range along the entire line, enabling it to serve more machines and workstations without the need for a dedicated fixed position for each one. The result is more efficient handling paths, a more intensive use of every machine in the cell and reduced waiting times between operations.
LIGHTWEIGHT GRIPPER
The grippers developed by Bovone for the BRS are lightweight and compact, thereby placing less strain on the robot’s load capacity when handling slabs. This translates into savings in both time and energy throughout the entire processing cycle: compared with equivalent equipment, the time required to complete the cycle is reduced by up to 25 per cent, with an overall increase in safety when handling heavier workpieces.
STONE EDGE POLISHING MACHINE
The machines in the Stonedge range, integrated into the cell, carry out edge grinding, polishing and back-calibration of the slab, depending on the model selected during plant configuration. The robot feeds the machine at a constant rate, allowing it to operate according to the recipe set by the operator: this results in a constant finish slab after slab, regardless of volumes, whether in mass production or small batches.
SLAB LOADING AND UNLOADING
At either end of the line are stations dedicated to loading and unloading slabs, managed directly by the robot throughout the entire processing cycle. The robot picks up the raw slab, positions it on the first machine in the cell and, once processing is complete, unloads it automatically. This automated handling eliminates the downtime between one piece and the next that is typical of manual handling, keeping the line running continuously and reducing downtime.