Random Length Veneer Feeder RVF 75R, provides a method to automatically select and position random length veneer onto the plywood substrate. The robot automatically selects the veneer length so that the veneer joints are not in the same proximity as the plywood joints.
The RVF 75R provides an automatic method to place random veneer lengths onto a continuously running plywood core such that the veneer joints do not line up closely to the plywood joints. The innovation uses a robot fitted with a vacuum arm that selects the veneer and then places it precisely (end to end) onto the plywood core. The veneers are sorted by length and stored in hopper bins, for example: bin #1 may have veneers that are 2 – 3 ft long, bin #2 has veneers 3 – 5 ft long, etc. A vision system on the conveyor identifies plywood joint locations and tracks the joints as they move down the conveyor. The vision system relays information to the Robot as to which bin to pick the veneer from so that the veneer joints will not be in the same proximity as the plywood joints.
