With its new ‘Intelligent Cutting Process’ (ICP) autonomy kit, Bystronic has won the Swiss Technology Award in the ‘Industry Innovation’ category. Numerous projects entered the competition but Bystronic came out on top with its autonomous laser cutting machine.

The Swiss Technology Award is Switzerland’s highest recognition for innovation and technology. Bystronic says that its innovative prowess is behind the award, where the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) has been recognised to solve customer problems.

The aim is to optimise and automate the cutting process and thus address key challenges in the metalworking market. These challenges include high personnel costs. Automating the programming, set-up and monitoring of the laser cutting machine significantly reduces personnel costs, as the parts no longer require reworking. 

Another challenge is high production costs. Here, the laser cutting machine minimises raw material consumption, waste and post-processing steps, all of which support cost savings. With regard to the shortage of skilled workers, automation of the cutting process reduces the need for highly qualified workers.

With this solution, Bystronic says it helps customers to produce more sustainably, efficiently and cost-effectively. They also benefit ecologically and economically thanks to a short amortisation period for the investment.

“With our new ICP feature we offer a semi-autonomous machine and have successfully established the first applications in the market,” says Andreas Lüdi, deputy head of pre-development. “To increase further the machine’s degree of autonomy, we’re working on controlling other process parameters in addition to speed. In the near future, we’ll make the product ready for series production.”

The Swiss Technology Award supports and promotes this culture of innovation. Every year, outstanding technology-based innovations and developments from start-ups, universities and established companies are honoured in three categories.

More information www.bystronic.com