We provide Special Purpose Machines (SPMs) that are custom-engineered to perform specific production tasks beyond the capabilities of off-the-shelf equipment. Our SPM solutions enhance precision, speed, and efficiency in repetitive assembly line processes, and when integrated with robots, provide additional flexibility in tasks and movements
With over 40 years of experience, we specialise in designing, building and deploying internationally competitive SPMs across diverse industries, boosting productivity, ensuring consistent quality, minimising human error, enhancing workplace safety and reducing labour costs — ultimately strengthening your bottom line.
Special Purpose Machines
We employ a three-phase lean design process to collaborate with your team, exploring options and identifying the most effective approach to create value and maximise the return on your investment:
Planning and design
As part of our Automation Discovery Process (ADP), we will define key inputs and outputs, analyse handled products and materials and determine critical machine requirements. Next, we’ll conceptualise and validate SPM designs using 3D CAD mock-ups, robot simulations and cycle-time analysis.
At the end of the design phase, we’ll present the final concept, explain the technology, provide cost estimates and timelines and answer any questions.
Fabrication and assembly
In this step, we will draft key mechanical and electrical engineering specifications to support the fabrication and assembly of mechanical components and electrical wiring. We will then develop and program SPM software that aligns with Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) requirements.
Integration and testing
Finally, we will provide a comprehensive end-to-end integration solution, handling the delivery, installation and commissioning of the physical SPM on-site. This process includes electrical wiring, connectivity, Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and training for operators and maintenance staff.
“My experience working with the Applied Robotics Team has been great and their enthusiasm to take on challenging applications is second to none.”
– Jason L
Rockwell
We have partnered with a range of prominent clients and the SPM solutions we’ve implemented highlight our expertise in designing and deploying machines that address specific manufacturing challenges, delivering substantial efficiency gains and cost savings:
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Workstation engineering and scope consultancy
We will work with you to gain a detailed understanding of your operations and then identify the steps required to seamlessly integrate your workstations with your manufacturing process.
Legrand triples production of light switches
We worked collaboratively with Legrand to design an SPM consisting of a single robot and gripper - to complete multiple tasks including screw assembly, attaching top and bottoms plates and assembling the switch itself.
Legrand established new benchmarks in efficiency - tripling production - in this highly competitive global industry.
Capral frequent maintenance downtime eliminateD
Capral’s operations were restricted by an industry standard hot billet loading machine that required frequent maintenance and cleaning in a hazardous zone.
We collaborated with Capral to replace their loading machine with custom industrial robots and robust gripping technologies that only require once-a-year servicing.
With 6,000 unique aluminium profiles and frequent customisations, Capral encountered major efficiency and safety challenges in sorting, picking, packing and loading orders for distribution.
Working closely with Capral, we designed and implemented an AI-powered robotic SPM to automate the process from picking to packaging, cutting freight volumes by 50%.
Fletcher Insulation doubles production in six months
Responding to a finite business opportunity, Fletcher Insulation tasked us with increasing their production by 100% by eliminating a bottleneck in the packaging of their insulation batts for shipping.
We developed a system leveraging conveying technologies and special purpose packaging jigs to collate and compress shipping bundles for palletisation.
We are industry agnostic and provide end-to-end Special Purpose Machines to support a range of manufacturing disciplines pharmaceuticals, consumer electronics, food & beverage, FMCG, mining, building products, waste & recycling, renewables and intralogistics.
