Archetypical module

Each module consists of a steel frame that provides rigidity and structural integrity. The frame includes an aluminium work surface, which provides a simple, flexible mounting solution for module-specific equipment. Additionally, the frame is mounted on castors to enable convenient transportation of the module.

Electrical and network Connectivity

Within the module, basic electrical wiring distributes power to the module’s electronic components, such as network switches, pneumatic solenoid valve blocks, single-board computers etc. The module also includes network wiring, connecting the devices within the module (computers, cameras, robotic controllers, etc.) and interconnects various modules within the cell’s network via “Plug & Produce” (PnP) connectors.

Proprietary quipment

Modules can be augmented by adding custom equipment according to specific requirements. This includes computers, cameras, workholding solutions and network equipment, which can be easily integrated to achieve the module’s desired functionality.

Computer and network hardware

Each module includes a Raspberry Pi single-board-computer equipped with a “PoE Hat” to enable power via Power over Ethernet (PoE), reducing the need for separate power supplies. These are powerful enough to run ROS nodes, exposing each module’s data and functionalities to the cell’s ROS environment. This allows the modules to be controlled by the high-level task scheduling software as soon as they are connected to the cell. Additionally, each module contains a PoE-enabled network switch to connect devices like cameras to the network and supply power via PoE.