Packaging and storage
DimaSimma in the AGV ROBOINSPECT project: improving inspection safety in the steel industry
DimaSimma participated as a technology partner in the European project ROBOINSPECT, an initiative funded by the Research Fund for Coal and Steel (RFCS) and aimed at improving safety and efficiency in the steel industry. The project focused on developing an automated inspection system for high-risk industrial environments, using an automated guided vehicle (AGV) with a robotic arm and integrated camera system.
A strategic contribution to innovation in the steel sector
The project involved three European entities: the PITTINI Group, which provided its Ferriere Nord steel plant in Osoppo (UD) as a test site; CSM - RINA CONSULTING, responsible for the robotic inspection system; and DimaSimma, tasked with designing and building the AGV. The company delivered a reliable and seamlessly integrable mobile platform, engineered to operate in complex environments and with a high level of automation.
The ROBOINSPECT system has been designed to carry out critical checks along the production line, including:
• verifying correct material positioning (e.g. wire rod) before welding
• checking label integrity and readability
• ensuring operational compliance before production startup.
Advanced technology for automated inspection
The AGV developed by DimaSimma is based on a mobile platform equipped with sensors for autonomous navigation in complex environments, using hybrid technology (laser and vision) and a CANopen interface for controlling the robotic arm. The arm is configured with 6 degrees of freedom, electric actuators, and a head with an integrated high-definition camera.
The entire system is managed by proprietary software that interfaces via OPC-UA with the MES and line PLCs, enabling real-time monitoring and data collection for predictive analysis. The AGV operates fully autonomously, navigating around bulky and potentially hazardous equipment such as winders and coil carts. The images collected by the robot are analyzed using artificial intelligence algorithms to assess production processes and support continuous quality improvement.
A step forward toward a safer and more sustainable steel industry
Thanks to the synergy among the three participating entities, the project met its objectives within the 36-month development timeline. The results, widely documented on the official channels of the PITTINI Group, highlight tangible benefits: reduced exposure of personnel to hazardous situations, shorter inspection times, and lower operating costs.
DimaSimma’s contribution once again demonstrates its ability to deliver advanced, customized engineering solutions for industrial automation, positioning itself as a technology partner even in highly complex environments such as the steel industry.
About DimaSimma
Based in Italy, DimaSimma specializes in the design and production of automated systems for industrial logistics. The company develops vertical automated storage systems, automated drawer systems, and custom solutions for organizing and optimizing production spaces. With a flexible, innovation-driven approach, DimaSimma collaborates with manufacturing companies across various sectors, offering advanced technologies to improve material handling, reduce waste, and boost operational efficiency.
For more details, visit the company’s online stand.
