Taichung is one of Taiwan‘s largest cities. It lies between the west coast and the mountains inland and is considered to be the city with the most pleasant climate in the country. Local attractions include Taiwan‘s largest night market with its lively atmosphere and many culinary specialties. However, the city of more than 2.5 million inhabitants is also highly industrialized and home to many mechanical engineering companies. To the north of Taichung city center, in the Beitun District, are the headquarters of the Taiwanese company, Pongi Gear Experts Co., Ltd.

The software is part of a technology package for bin picking, which is the robot-assisted removal of unsorted parts from a container. It is available with two scopes of functions: The Basic version includes detection, gripping and removal, while the Pro version also features collision-free storage planning. An optional tool is available for realistically simulating processes in advance using a physics engine – all on a clear, intuitive interface. The technology package is also equipped with a camera system as standard, which is used on a stationary mount or on the robot. The open interface allows for the integration of camera systems from different manufacturers. The latest release automatically optimizes part detection parameters using artificial intelligence.

Anyone interested can see the application at a demonstration and training center set up by Pongi in collaboration with the National Chin-Yi University of Technology (NCUT). The test cell is equipped with a 3D color camera from Zivid, the Pro version of the LHRobotics.Vision software including a simulation tool, as well as a robot. This makes Pongi the first representative anywhere in Asia to have a test facility that covers the entire process from setup to gripper and storage planning. “Pongi has worked intensively with the system and can provide expert advice and support to customers on-site,” reports Mathias Graf, Head of Strategy Development and Portfolio Management at Liebherr-Verzahntechnik GmbH. “Thanks to the close cooperation, we have learned from it too: We have revised our training concept and further simplified and standardized the installation and commissioning process for our integrators.”