Increase pallet mission throughput with PDS Pick

ifm's Pick and Drop System (PDS) algorithm enhances mission throughput by robustly, repeatedly, and accurately detecting virtually any two-pocket pallet.

PDS employs comprehensive real-world iterations to recognize diverse pallet types and conditions. It precisely identifies pallet position in three-dimensional space wIth advanced point cloud processing and 6-DOF output.

The consistent, repeatable process overcomes the complexity of multiple variables in a scene. It improves availability by completing missions quickly and accurately with minimal false positives or human intervention.

Address real-world challenges with real-world experience

The ifm pallet detection system uses real-world information from nearly 50+ million actual pallet interactions. That includes thousands of outliers and problematic edge cases. This comprehensive foundation accommodates damaged pallets, various pallet designs, unusual load configurations, and challenging environments.

This design overcomes common pallet detection hurdles including:

• Broken boards or structural deformities that challenge recognition algorithms. 
• Dozens of different designs, materials, and colors requiring data for each variation. 
• Shrink-wrapped loads often obscure critical detection points. 
• Highly reflective products create reflections that can confuse optical systems.

The PDS system reliably overcomes nuisance problems while avoiding false positives. Developers at ifm continually strengthen the algorithm with input from new edge cases and outliers.

Ensure accuracy with a multi-stage picking process

PDS uses a 3D camera to capture comprehensive point cloud data of the target area.

The algorithm then translates the pixels of the pallet into a Six Degrees of Freedom (6-DOF) pose accounting for X, Y, and Z coordinates plus yaw, pitch, and roll. It delivers this information and left/right pocket locations to the vehicle.

Solve bespoke pick challenges with a mature off-the-shelf solution

The PDS algorithm delivers measurable operational improvements reliably through reduced cycle times and exception handling. Autonomous mobile robot developers can focus on their core IP while ensuring end-user efficiency and accuracy.

Keep reading: Pallet detection drop capabilites enhance accuracy

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