This project built on work performed in an initial high-level technical investigation into hide handling which explored concepts for the collection, movement, and placement of folded hides. As part of this project, a prototype system was developed that could collect, transfer and place hides onto pallets and into bins.
The salted hide handling system was successfully delivered and automated the movement and logistics within the hide processing facility. The system handled over 1.1 million hides during the trial and reduced labour and increased safety. Since the instillation of the system in March 2020 there has been no injuries recorded.
See the hide packing automation project video here.