Students, researchers and designers at the Centre for Advanced Wood Processing (CAWP) can develop innovating and advanced wood components for building and industrial design, thanks to the new Hundegger Robot Drive.
This new joinery machine, the most technically innovative in its class in the world, was made possible by support from industry partner Hans Hundegger Maschinenbau GmbH and the generous contribution of a private foundation, matched by a grant from Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). The Hundegger Robot Drive can be fed computerized specifications and carry out the machining operations within its own sawdust-proof chamber.
Professor Robert Kozak, Head of the Department of Wood Science, is extremely grateful for the financial support. “The addition of the Hundegger Robot Drive makes CAWP one of the most advanced wood processing laboratories in the world. Our hope is that it will enable us to conduct state-of-the art research in wood building and design, educate students and industry, and foster innovation and growth in Canada’s timber building sector for years to come.”
The Hundegger Robot Drive arrived from Germany in August 2013, along with a team of expert technicians ready to install the machine and provide training and instruction to the Faculty’s machine operators. Formal unveiling and industry demonstration took place in January 2014.
This latest addition makes CAWP one of the world’s most progressive wood processing facilities, adding to the Faculty of Forestry’s already strong global reputation. This will expand the Faculty’s capacity to deliver innovative educational programmes and open doors to new opportunities for the next generation of wood products professionals and be a catalyst for industry innovation.
The Faculty of Forestry is deeply grateful to both the private foundation, Canada Foundation for Innovation and Hans Hundegger Maschinenbau GmbH for their partnership and generosity.
