Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems (PCS) has unveiled its latest innovation, the Smart
Material Handler (SMH), a modular, automated sheet-handling solution designed to optimize
productivity in digital cutting operations for signage, display, folding carton, and corrugated
applications.
The new SMH system enhances the efficiency of Kongsberg cutting tables by enabling
simultaneous material loading and cutting. Operators can now prepare new sheets while the
previous one is still being processed, effectively creating a buffer workflow that reduces
downtime and minimizes manual intervention. By allowing one operator to handle tasks that
typically require two, the system can cut labour needs by up to 50%.
The Smart Material Handler consists of a loading table, optionally equipped with an
Underside Camera (USC) that automatically detects registration marks and adjusts sheet
positioning, and an offloading table. Together, they extend the functionality of existing
Kongsberg PCS cutting tables, semi-automating the production workflow for smoother
loading, offloading, and increased throughput.
Stuart Fox, President & CEO, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems comments: “Solving our
customers' challenges is central to our proposition, so we are continuously exploring ways to
enhance our customers’ productivity and reduce manual intervention, enabling operators to
focus on more high-value tasks. By expanding our automation portfolio with the Smart
Material Handler, we are reducing the operator need by 50% whilst also enabling our
customers to enhance productivity and achieve overall smoother production throughout the
finishing process.”
Designed for maximum flexibility, the loading table can easily handle rigid substrates and
can be quickly switched to a roll feeder when required, ensuring fast changeovers for
different material types. The system can operate in both landscape and portrait orientations,
adapting to varied production layouts. On the opposite end, the offloading table is positioned
at a fixed 12-degree incline and includes integrated stoppers to secure finished materials,
enabling smooth unloading while reducing the risk of damage or costly errors.
Compatible with all bed sizes of the Kongsberg C-Series and Ultimate Series, the Smart
Material Handler can be installed as an add-on for new systems or retrofitted to existing
setups, providing a future-proof upgrade path for Kongsberg users.
The Smart Material Handler is available immediately for order through Kongsberg PCS’s
online store and authorized distributors worldwide.
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