A collaborative robot serving the local economy: the example of snow crab traps

In Quebec, snow crab fishing is a deeply rooted tradition, both for enthusiasts and the commercial industry. However, the production of crab traps – also known as crab cages – was primarily carried out in Asia, resulting in significant costs related to customs duties and transportation. A company in the Gaspé region, specializing in the design of custom traps and nets, turned to Revtech to achieve two objectives:

1. Repatriate crate production to Quebec.
2. Optimize the manufacturing process to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

The solution: a welding robot

To meet this challenge, we designed and installed a solution tailored to our client’s specific needs: a collaborative robot capable of welding the arcs of the racks with precision and consistency. Here are the key steps of this project:

• Designing a circular welding wheel: This innovation allows the robot to perform perfect 360-degree welds, ensuring consistent quality.
• Installing custom clamps: The clamps, positioned at an angle, securely hold the rack components in place during the welding process, eliminating the risk of misalignment.
• Manufacturing a custom table: Specifically designed for the client’s dimensions and requirements, this table provides a stable and ergonomic base for assembly.

Watch the video below to see the welding robot during our tests and the fishers in action.

Snow Crab Fishing in Quebec

Snow crab fishing, a culinary treasure of Quebec, has been a deeply rooted tradition since the 1960s. The rise of this fishery in the 1980s led to increased demand for high-quality traps capable of withstanding the challenging conditions of the Atlantic Ocean. These traps, traditionally handcrafted, are essential for ensuring efficient fishing. However, faced with growing demand and challenges in recruiting skilled labor, our client decided to transition to a robotic solution.

The challenge: automate circular arc welding

One of the most complex aspects of manufacturing crab traps is welding the metal arches. These arches must be welded with perfect precision to ensure the trap's strength and durability. Revtech Systems was commissioned to design a complete automation solution while meeting the client’s customization needs.

A customized robotic solution

To address this challenge, we designed a robotic solution featuring a welding robot specifically configured for circular welding operations. Here are the main features of this solution:

Design of a Circular Welding Wheel: We developed a custom circular table synchronized with the robot to achieve flawless 360-degree welds. This innovation ensures unmatched consistency in arc fabrication.

Installation of Angle Clamps: To accommodate the varying dimensions of the racks, we integrated adjustable clamping devices to hold the arcs in an optimal position.

Advanced Programming: The collaborative robot (cobot) is preprogrammed to perform welds according to precise parameters, thereby minimizing the risk of human error while increasing production speed.

Benefits for the local economy

By manufacturing the crates directly in Quebec, our client promotes local purchasing and reduces reliance on imports, while eliminating international shipping costs and customs duties, enabling better cost control. This collaboration with our client perfectly illustrates how the integration of robotic technologies can transform a traditional industry.

At Revtech Systems, we are proud to contribute to these transformations that benefit both businesses and the community. Through custom solutions like this collaborative welding robot, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting innovation and sustainable growth in Quebec.