AI-Powered Automation for Rail Edge Trimming

AI • Apr 09,2024

A railway joint plate manufacturer faced a challenge in manually trimming 1,000 plates daily before heat treatment, a risky and inefficient process. To address this, they implemented an AI-powered 3D vision-guided robotic system. This automated the edge trimming task, eliminating manual intervention, reducing worker risk, and ensuring a steady supply of joint plates.

Client:

The client, ICS SAKABE, a systems integrator based in Japan, is collaborating on a project with Kyushu Railway Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd. This company specializes in producing turnouts, rail processing, and rail welding services.

Problem Statement:

Rail joint plates needed manual edge trimming before undergoing heat treatment, with nearly 1,000 trimmings performed daily. Although seemingly straightforward, this task posed inherent risks. The company aimed to improve efficiency by integrating robotics and Internet of Things (IoT) technology into the post-heat treatment transportation and delivery process of rail joint plates.

Results:

  • Guaranteed a steady supply of joint plates, vital for ensuring consistent railway operations.
  • Optimized the edge trimming procedure, resulting in enhanced productivity and efficiency.
  • Minimized manual intervention, potentially easing the burden on workers tasked with repetitive duties.

AI Solution Overview:

The client adopted SolMotion’s vision-guided robotics to automate this critical task. SolMotion’s cutting-edge AI 3D machine vision technology guarantees accurate positioning of joint plates, streamlining the edge trimming process seamlessly.

Implemented by ICS SAKABE, the vision-guided robotic system allows unmanned operations, greatly improving product supply stability, minimizing worker risks, and boosting overall efficiency.

 

References:

  1. Automated Rail Edge Trimming Using AI. https://www.solomon-3d.com/case-studies/solmotion/automated-rail-edge-trimming-ai/

 

Industry: Metallurgy

Vendor: Solomon Technology Corporation

Clients: ICS SAKABE, Kyushu Railway Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd

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