With ArtiCoating, the Czech company ITS introduces a proprietary robotic solution developed to meet current demands in the coating industry. This compact robot application enhances both efficiency and flexibility in painting processes and is suitable for small-batch, high-mix production environments.
System Overview
ArtiCoating is a robot-controlled coating system designed for both manual and automated operations. Compatible with spray booths from all manufacturers, the system requires no modification of existing control units, ensuring full retention of warranty and minimizing implementation time. It can be installed and commissioned – including operator training – within one week.
The system is ideal for operations of all sizes, from small workshops to high-volume plants, and supports a quick switch between manual and robotic spraying. This flexibility allows production lines to easily adapt to different product types, sizes, or surface geometries.
Flexibility Through the Seventh Axis
One of the standout features of ArtiCoating
is its seventh axis, which is included in the standard version. This significantly expands the robot’s range of motion and enables:
- Coating of deep curves and undercuts,
- Reaching low positions close to the floor,
- Application of paint on overhead surfaces, often inaccessible to human operators.
With a movement path of 3000 mm including the spray gun, the robot can cover most pass-through profiles of standard coating booths.
ITS ArtiCoating_flexibilityKey Technical Advantages
- 7-axis kinematics for full reach and optimal spray angles
- ATEX Certification (Zones 22/21 and 2/1) for use in explosive atmospheres
- Compact all-metal construction, suitable for continuous industrial use
- Fast applicator mounting for quick switch between modes
- No need for coordinate systems – real-product teaching simplifies learning
- Intuitive interface with full-text searchable program database
- Optional barcode integration for automated program selection
Intuitive Programming and User Experience
The system was specifically developed for operators without previous robotics experience. Programming and path planning are highly intuitive, based on manual movement of the spray gun over a real product. There's no need to understand coordinate systems or robot configuration – the operator simply moves the applicator into position.
Spraying sequences consist of clearly defined steps, where the operator assigns whether the motion is for painting or repositioning. These steps can be inserted, modified, or deleted. Program storage is unlimited, and full-text search enables easy access even with large numbers of jobs.
Fast Training and Easy Deployment
Operator training typically requires only one day, and can be conducted directly at the customer’s facility or at the ITS development center. For more complex coating applications, extended training programs are available.
The robot's control logic eliminates traditional programming risks – no data loss occurs even if the robot is physically damaged, as learned trajectories are stored safely and independently.
ITS ArtiCoating_easy operation
ITS ArtiCoating_universalSustainable and Energy-Efficient Design
Environmental responsibility was a key factor in the system’s development. The robot’s lightweight motion system ensures low energy consumption, while its aluminium alloy housing is both durable and fully recyclable.
Artificial Intelligence and Future Potential
ITS is actively developing new features for ArtiCoating, including the integration of artificial intelligence. Future enhancements will include the ability to:
- Automatically learn manual motions for robotic replication,
- Make real-time path corrections with minimal input,
- Implement voice-command-based control for improved ergonomics.
Addressing Labor Shortages and Low-Volume Production
ArtiCoating is designed to support a flexible and scalable production strategy, helping companies to:
- Reduce repetitive and physically demanding tasks,
- Maintain production quality even with fewer skilled workers,
- Achieve economic feasibility for small batch sizes.
As labor shortages in manufacturing persist, ArtiCoating
offers a reliable and autonomous solution to ensure process stability and long-term competitiveness.
Live Demonstration Available
The system can be seen in operation at the ITS development center in Brno, Czech Republic. ITS also offers customers the opportunity to test ArtiCoating with their own products and coating systems, allowing them to evaluate process quality and performance firsthand.
ArtiCoating from ITS is a compact, flexible robotic coating solution combining manual and automated spraying. With ATEX certification, 7-axis reach, and intuitive no-programming operation, it enables fast setup, easy training, and efficient small- to large-scale production.
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