Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems (PCS) has launched its Smart Material Handler (SMH), a modular, sheet handling solution for the digital cutting of sign, display, folding carton and corrugated applications. The new solution from Kongsberg PCS is designed to enhance the productivity of a user’s cutting table in multiple ways. It enables operators to load new materials while the cutter is still processing the previous sheet, acting as a buffer zone and allowing one operator to handle tasks that typically require two, cutting labour needs by 50%.

The SMH comprises a loading table with an optional Underside Camera (USC) that automatically detects registration marks and adjusts positioning, and an offloading table. Together, they act as extensions to the existing Kongsberg PCS cutting table, semi-automating the production workflow, enabling smoother loading and offloading and bringing more flexibility to production.

The loading table is suitable for rigid substrates but has the option to be quickly replaced with a roll feeder, offering flexible workflows for different material handling requirements and faster changeovers. In addition, the Smart Material Handler can be used in both landscape and portrait modes.

Connected to the other side of the cutting table, the offload table is positioned at a fixed 12-degree incline with integrated stoppers to securely hold finishing materials in place, facilitating smooth material unload and reducing potential costly errors.

Stuart Fox, president and CEO, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems, says, “Solving our customers’s 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 cutting process.”

The Smart Material Handler is available as an add-on unit on all bed sizes for both the Kongsberg C-series and Ultimate series and can be retrofitted to existing machines.