KASTOpick bar

Automated bar separation from storage cassettes

KASTOpick bar can automatically remove and manage bar materials from storage cassettes. The process allows for loading of downstream metal-cutting machines or optimisation of order picking for strapping. 

You can connect the sorting system to both new and existing storage solutions for blank and black materials.

The system can handle a bar weight of up to 500 kg, higher individual bar weights are also possible upon request. KASTOpick bar acts as a link between storage systems, saws, and strapping equipment to achieve complete automation in steel trading or treatment processes. 

The versatile KASTOpick bar gripping systems makes it possible to separate a variety of profiles: These systems can handle flat, square, and round materials, as well as round tubes and profile tubes that are not wrapped or labelled.

To ensure safe removal and transport, the robot system communicates with the ERP system or other machines upstream or downstream to gather all necessary information. The bars are stacked automatically in an ideal pattern that automatically considers the material dimensions and order size.

Removal process

To begin the removal process, the cassette is scanned by the 3D-Sensor measuring head as it moves over it. The resulting 3D point cloud is processed using an algorithm developed by KASTO. All possible gripping points are examined for each bar within the 3D image and for each robot. At the same time, the system checks for any possible collisions with other components within the system.

After locating a collision-free gripping point for a single bar and both robots, the robots forecast the intended movement. Collision-free gripping points are determined from the point cloud and the algorithm generates a movement path, removes the bar and transports it to the target position. The process then starts again.

Your advantages at a glance

• Automated picking of material bundles and order preparation for the steel trade
• Enables fully automated and unmanned material removal in 3-shift operation
• Interlinking of production steps through the connection of downstream machines
• Optimised and unmanned picking and material provision
• Suitable for a wide variety of materials: flat, square and round material as well as round and profiled tubes
• Increased efficiency through material removal and manipulation
• No teach-in or other programming skills required by the user