About this project
An intelligent robotic solution designed to replace manual hand-weighing stations used in recipe-driven manufacturing processes
The Microman Cobot project developed an intelligent robotic solution designed to replace manual hand-weighing stations used in recipe-driven manufacturing processes. These processes frequently involve powders, granules, and liquids whose properties can vary over time, making them particularly challenging to automate with conventional systems.
Working in collaboration with Promtek Ltd, Staffordshire University helped create a smart, adaptable cobot-based system capable of accurately weighing and dosing ingredients without human intervention. The solution combines advanced robotics, machine learning, material characterisation, and recipe control technologies to deliver consistent and repeatable performance across a wide range of materials.
The project addressed a long-standing challenge within process manufacturing: automating complex hand-weighing tasks that traditionally rely on human judgement and experience.
Project partner
Promtek Ltd
Innovation and technology
The Microman Cobot integrates:
- Collaborative robotics (cobots)
- Machine learning and adaptive control algorithms
- Advanced recipe management systems
- Material behaviour analysis and characterisation
- Precision weighing and dosing technologies
By continuously learning from material handling operations, the system can adapt to variations in ingredient properties and maintain dosing accuracy within specified tolerances. This capability enables reliable automation of tasks that have historically required skilled operators.
Impact and benefits
The project has delivered significant technical and commercial benefits, including:
- Reduced reliance on manual weighing operations
- Improved process consistency and product quality
- Increased manufacturing efficiency and productivity
- Enhanced traceability and process control
- Greater flexibility for handling variable powders, granules, and liquids
- Development of specialist robotics and artificial intelligence expertise within Promtek
In addition to creating a commercial product for the manufacturing sector, the project embedded advanced robotics, automation, and machine learning skills within Promtek, ensuring the solution can be supported and further developed sustainably in the future.
Project significance
Microman Cobot represents a pioneering step towards fully automated ingredient weighing in recipe-controlled manufacturing environments. By combining robotics, artificial intelligence, and process engineering, the project demonstrates how intelligent automation can successfully replicate and enhance complex manual manufacturing tasks.
Project duration
30 months
Related article:
Promtek, IREROBOT and Staffordshire University Collaborate to Drive Innovation in Industrial Robotics and Haptics Technology (UK Manufacturing)