RobOptiCut – Automated defect correction and optimisation of veneers

RobOptiCut is developing an innovative, automated process chain for the industrial use of hardwood veneers in high-performance lightweight construction. The aim is to utilise existing timber resources more efficiently whilst laying the groundwork for high-performance, bio-based lightweight components.

With the transition to climate-resilient mixed forests, beech in particular will be available in greater quantities in future. However, the material yield for high-quality technical applications is currently low: local imperfections mean that large sections of a veneer have to be discarded. At the same time, reliably determining the grain direction is crucial to making the most of the material’s mechanical potential.

RobOptiCut relies on the intelligent integration of sensor technology, image processing, optimisation methods and robotics. Fibre orientation and material properties are recorded using a line-scan microscope camera and a hyperspectral camera. Image processing and nesting algorithms identify defects and determine an optimal processing strategy. Local defects are then selectively removed and replaced with matched veneer patches. This is intended to more than double the yield of high-quality veneers, whilst the mechanical properties of the repaired veneers approach those of flawless veneers.

The process chain developed thus provides the technological basis for the automated production of high-quality veneer layers for timber and timber-hybrid components. Potential applications range from vehicle and rail vehicle manufacturing to mechanical engineering, wind energy and other lightweight construction applications. At the same time, RobOptiCut contributes to resource conservation, CO₂ sequestration and the transition away from fossil fuels through greater material efficiency and the increased use of renewable raw materials.