Vršac, Serbia and Montreal, Canada — Enterijer Mesicki, a prominent Serbian furniture manufacturer with three decades of industry experience, has embraced technological innovation by developing a state-of-the-art robotic system for automated furniture production. This system, powered by FANUC robotic technology and the RoboDK software, significantly improves precision and efficiency in milling and sanding processes, contributing to the advancement of the Serbian furniture manufacturing sector.
Located in Vršac, Serbia, Enterijer Mesicki has established itself since its inception in 1992 by specializing in hardwood furniture production. Over the years, the company has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship, catering to both local and international markets, including Austria, Germany, and Bulgaria. As the Eastern European furniture industry evolves, there is a pressing need to integrate advanced technology while preserving the artisanal woodworking techniques that define the region's legacy.
The merging of tradition and modern technological advancements is vital for the sustainability of the Eastern European furniture market, particularly in Serbia. With a rich history in woodworking, the region is known for its skilled workforce and valuable natural resources, which have allowed manufacturers to create durable, aesthetically pleasing furniture pieces using locally sourced materials. In light of global market demands, Enterijer Mesicki is at the forefront of integrating automation into traditional practices, ensuring that the high-quality standards for which Serbian furniture is known are maintained.
The introduction of an innovative robotic cell exemplifies Enterijer Mesicki's commitment to modernization. This new automated solution melds traditional craftsmanship with advanced robotics to enhance operational efficiency. The collaboration between FANUC robots and RoboDK software results in a system that optimizes precision and efficacy across various manufacturing tasks.
Zoran Mesicki, the company's owner, expressed pride in the new project, noting the fulfillment derived from contributing to innovative advancements in furniture production. The FANUC robotic cell leverages several key components that together enhance the production process, including:
Enterijer Mesicki and RoboDK Transform Serbian Furniture Manufacturing using a FANUC robot/ Photo courtesy of RoboDK.
RoboDK Software: This versatile software simplifies the programming and simulation of robots for various manufacturing tasks, including milling and sanding. Its user-friendly interface streamlines workflows, thus reducing programming time while increasing accuracy.
FANUC Industrial Robots: Recognized for their robust performance, these widely available robots are central to the automated system, allowing for precise and consistent operation across tasks.
Compatibility with Existing CAM Software: Although RoboDK offers various Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) solutions, Enterijer Mesicki successfully integrates its existing software tools, highlighting RoboDK's flexible compatibility.
The robotic cell currently addresses three main applications in furniture production:
Belt Sander: This application efficiently handles material removal, programmed for speeds up to 21 m/s, ensuring high-speed and uniform sanding.
Orbital Sander: Offering fine finishing precision, this application provides adjustable speeds and pressure control, crucial for achieving high-quality surface finishes.
Milling Motor: This component facilitates precision cutting and detailing, using a powerful motor for intricate designs on various materials.
Together, these applications significantly enhance Enterijer Mesicki's capabilities, increasing production accuracy and efficiency while meeting modern design requirements.
Looking ahead, Enterijer Mesicki plans to expand its technological envelope further by introducing advanced aggregates for curvilinear edge banding, thereby refining its custom furniture production capabilities. Additionally, the company is collaborating on new projects to implement robotic systems in other manufacturing contexts, such as sanding composite materials.
Enterijer Mesicki's commitment to integrating advanced robotics into its operations marks a significant milestone for Serbian furniture manufacturing, bridging the traditional craftsmanship of the region with modern technological innovation, thereby ensuring continued growth and competitiveness in the global market.
