VOLTA

VOLTA is a fully automated slab-loading robot designed for transferring natural-stone slabs from storage supports to horizontal processing lines by means of a vacuum lifting system. It is particularly suitable for polishing lines and other installations using comb-shaped or fork-type conveyors. Unlike conventional floor-running loading robots, VOLTA incorporates a projecting comb-type vacuum carriage that can enter between and pass through the conveyor supports. This allows the slab to be positioned closer to the receiving conveyor without requiring additional intermediate transfer movements. The resulting layout reduces handling distances, shortens cycle times and simplifies integration with polishing-line loading stations. The robot travels along floor-mounted rails on independently motorised wheel assemblies. It provides movement along three controlled axes: vertical lifting, forward and backward movement of the vacuum carriage, and rotation of the suction-cup frame. The vacuum pump and lifting system are installed on the travelling bridge. The suction-cup frame is raised and lowered by an electric geared motor, while the complete handling cycle is controlled through PLC programming, encoders and variable-frequency drives. VOLTA is equipped with 64 suction cups manufactured from durable Japanese-origin NBR rubber. The cups are mounted on shock-absorbing supports and arranged in five independently controlled vacuum zones. Through the touchscreen slab-mapping interface, the operator can activate the appropriate zones according to the slab dimensions and position. A high-capacity Italian-origin vacuum pump provides a nominal airflow of 160 m³/h. The electrical control panel is supplied as a mobile stand-alone unit, providing flexibility during installation and maintenance.