The Würth Innovation Day Torino 2024, hosted by Bonetto Automation, was a unique event that attracted experts and enthusiasts in technological innovation, automation, robotics, digitization, and sustainability.
Bonetto’s Initial Presentation
The event kicked off with a highlight: the presentation of the historic Pinerolo-based company Bonetto given by sales manager, Francesco Fraschetta. Founded in 1929, Bonetto stands out for its long experience and expertise in the design and manufacture of special machines for industrial automation. One of its main strengths is its ability to create customized solutions that meet customers’ specific needs, integrating advanced technologies to improve the efficiency and productivity of industrial processes.
This presentation highlighted not only the company’s prestigious past, but also its ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the automation industry.
The Speeches
Next, Diego Mori, Würth‘s Innovation Manager, took the floor for a content-rich speech, focusing on the topics of sustainability, digitalization, and the innovative solutions Würth is implementing to improve business efficiency and sustainability. Mori spoke about Würth Italy’s Sustainability Report 2022, highlighting the importance of renewable energy, reforestation with the Würth Forest, and the commitment to green mobility with the goal of converting the car fleet to low emissions by 2026. He also emphasized the role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in marketing and customer support, with the example of the MAIA chatbot and the Würth Lens App.
Interactive Stations
Next, participants were able to explore several interactive stations showing application cases of innovation. Here are some of the highlights:
1. Robotic cell with 3D Vision Technology for Bin Picking
This system uses 3D vision with structured light to identify and pick objects randomly arranged in a bin. Structured light is projected onto the objects, creating a pattern that is captured by 3D cameras. Vision software processes these images to create a three-dimensional map of the objects in the container, allowing the robot to determine the location, orientation and depth of each object to perform the pickup accurately.
This innovative technology is revolutionizing the automation industry; Bonetto Automation uses it to solve different practical applications, below:
Component assembly: 3D bin picking enables robots to automatically pick parts of various shapes and sizes from containers, without the need for previously ordered placement. Benefit: It helps improve the efficiency and flexibility of assembly processes.
Logistics and warehousing: 3D bin picking allows robots to autonomously pick items from shelves or containers, improving the organization and management of warehouse activities.Benefit: This technology is particularly useful for automating the loading/unloading of goods and space reorganization.
Inspection and quality control: The 3D vision system can be used to inspect products, identifying any defects or irregularities accurately and reliably. Benefit: This improves quality control processes and reduces errors.
Handling irregular objects: 3D bin picking is suitable for handling parts of different shapes and sizes, such as mechanical components, plastic parts, spare parts, etc. Benefit: It enables the automation of operations that previously required manual intervention.
2. Augmented Reality Applied to a Digital Twin of a Robotic Line
Using Hololens, participants experienced the digital twin, a digital replica of a physical system that allows industrial processes to be simulated, analyzed and optimized. The digital twin is revolutionizing the design of assembly lines. By creating detailed three-dimensional digital models of plants, designers can simulate and test manufacturing processes before their physical implementation.
This allows them to identify and solve potential problems in a virtual environment, optimizing layout, workflows and efficiency of operations. 
In addition, the digital twin enables real-time monitoring of assembly line performance, collecting valuable data to continuously improve processes.
With this technology, companies can reduce engineering time and costs, increasing the flexibility and reliability of their manufacturing facilities. At Bonetto, we are also at the forefront of this technology and will be among the first companies to use it extensively on our plants giving an innovative service to all our customers.
We will delve into this topic with also success stories later in our BLOG.
3. Laser Welded Battery Pack
When talking about sustainability, one immediate reference is related to green mobility. Bonetto, with its advanced laser welding technology, actively supports companies engaged in the design and production of electric vehicle components, such as battery modules and packs, OBCs (on board chargers), inverters, and electric motors.
In the interactive station on display, we presented a successful case in which Bonetto supported BeonD in the production of an innovative battery pack entirely designed in Italy, using the standard BONETTO SMART50 cell (https://www.bonettoautomation.com/laser-tech/).
The use of this technology made it possible to improve the quality and performance of the product and increase the efficiency of the production process.
In addition to these advantages, laser welding stands as a real game changer compared to other joining technologies for battery production. The main benefit can be found in the fact that it creates mechanically robust joints that are resistant to shock, vibration, and thermal variations. This is critical for battery packs, which experience considerable stress during daily use on vehicles.
4. Bonetto’s Automatic Line with Collaborative Robot and Smart Shuttle: Innovation in Industry 5.0
Industry 5.0 represents a new era of manufacturing, in which the integration of advanced technologies and human skills is key. During the Innovation Day at Bonetto Automation, an Automatic Line that embodies this vision was on display, integrating collaborative robots (cobots) and smart shuttles to optimize assembly processes.
Benefits of cobots in Industry 5.0
Human-machine collaboration: Cobots are designed to work closely with human operators, improving efficiency and safety in manufacturing processes.
Flexibility: Cobots can be easily reconfigured for different tasks and work environments, adapting to the changing needs of factories.
Intelligent automation: With their machine learning capabilities and interaction with the IoT, cobots optimize operations and reduce errors.
Reduced production time: Cobots work continuously, reducing cycle times and increasing productivity.
Ergonomics: The design of cobots takes human ergonomics into account, reducing operator fatigue and improving the quality of work.
In summary, Bonetto’s Automatic Line with Collaborative Robot and Smart Shuttle represents a step forward in the evolution of Industry 5.0, integrating cutting-edge technologies to improve productivity and assembly quality.
5. Other Thematic Areas and Innovative Devices
The demo area also featured the COMAU Exoskeleton, WÜRTH Hololens goggles, and the FLASKK Distributor-a wide range of innovative technology solutions that underscore the above companies’ ongoing commitment to innovation.
- COMAU Exoskeleton: This exoskeleton assists human operators in lifting and handling tasks, reducing muscle fatigue and improving ergonomics;
- WÜRTH Hololens: Hololens offer advanced augmented reality, allowing users to view digital information superimposed on the real world. They are used in areas such as maintenance, training and engineering;
- FLASKK dispenser: Flaskk is a smart functional water and beverage dispenser for innovative companies and key partners in corporate sustainability. It reduces environmental impact and promotes people’s well-being.
Conclusion and Networking
The event concluded with a networking aperitif, offering participants the opportunity to further discuss the topics covered and to forge relationships with potential new partners.
It was a day of collaboration and knowledge sharing, highlighting how innovation and sustainability are at the heart of Bonetto and Würth’s future strategies.
For more information about Bonetto Automation’s activities and our innovative solutions, visit Bonetto Group and contact us by emailing sales@bonettoautomazioni.com.
