Lantek, a global specialist in software solutions for the sheet metal fabrication sector, has partnered with TECOI to develop an advanced robotic unloading and palletising system designed to improve productivity, flexibility and automation in modern manufacturing environments. The solution integrates TECOI’s CF modular cutting platform, engineered for multi-head cutting operations and demanding large-scale production requirements, with Lantek’s intelligent CAD/CAM technology to create a seamless automated workflow from cutting through to material handling.
Following the cutting process, a servo-controlled automated crane fitted with liftable magnetic technology transfers processed sheets and components to an intermediate handling area. Robotic systems equipped with adaptive gripping technology then identify, collect and palletise parts based on instructions generated by Lantek’s software platform.
At the centre of the process is Lantek Expert, which manages part organisation by analysing component geometry and orientation. This ensures that only identical parts with the same positioning requirements are grouped together, creating stable pallet configurations while maintaining full traceability throughout the production and logistics chain.
Unlike traditional handling systems that require cutting operations to stop before unloading can take place, the new solution enables palletising activities to run in parallel with cutting. This continuous workflow reduces production interruptions, improves machine utilisation and helps manufacturers achieve higher throughput without compromising accuracy or quality.
The collaborative robot-based design provides additional flexibility for manufacturers. Extra robotic units can be added and synchronised as production demands increase, allowing the system to scale from lower-volume workshops to high-capacity industrial facilities. This modular approach supports manufacturers seeking automation solutions that can evolve alongside their business requirements. For sheet metal processors facing increasing pressure to improve efficiency, reduce manual handling and achieve greater production visibility, the integration of intelligent software and robotics represents a significant step towards the connected factory.
Francisco Pérez, OEM Channel Director at Lantek, commented: “The strength of this collaboration is that it goes beyond machine integration. The software provides the intelligence required to coordinate the complete process, ensuring that every robot receives accurate instructions at the right time. This demonstrates how digitalisation can simplify automation while delivering measurable improvements in workshop performance.”
The partnership between Lantek and TECOI also contributes to the Sortec framework, an initiative focused on achieving complete production line automation, from sheet metal processing through to final palletising. The project supports the continued transformation of the industry towards smarter, more efficient and fully connected manufacturing operations Lantek is a global software provider specializing in solutions for the sheet metal industry, helping manufacturers streamline design, production, and management processes.
Its software supports the entire manufacturing workflow—from CAD/CAM, nesting, and cutting to factory management and Industry 4.0 integration—enabling greater efficiency, accuracy, and cost control. Serving customers worldwide, Lantek works closely with machine tool manufacturers and metal fabricators to optimize operations, reduce waste, and improve productivity through advanced automation and digitalization.
