Italian Cutting Systems is a beneficiary of the project “NEW TECHNOLOGICAL SCENARIOS FOR POLYURETHANE FOAM PROCESSING” – Project Code NAWXIT6 – CUP B88E20000110007.
Architecture and Features of the New Prototype
he research project led to the design and development of an innovative modular-structure diagonal cutting machine, specifically engineered for processing advanced flexible materials such as high-density (HD) polyurethane foam, memory foam, viscoelastic materials, EVA foam and latex.
The developed architecture integrates advanced mechatronic functions andIndustry 4.0enabling technologies, overcoming the limitations of traditional horizontal and vertical cutting systems through a dynamic and highly digitalised process.
From a mechanical perspective, the prototype demonstrator consists of a tilting vertical cutting machine equipped with a movable cutting arch, capable of reaching an operating inclination of ±55°.
The cutting system uses a double-ended cross blade, designed to perform bidirectional cutting operations at a speed of 15.7 metres per second.
Cutting height is highly flexible, ranging from a minimum of 330 mm with the blade at its maximum inclination to 1,300 mm in the straight-blade configuration.
Machine movements are controlled along four independent axes, driven by high-precision electric motors managed by a PLC.
This configuration ensures smooth movements through acceleration and deceleration ramps, eliminating low-frequency vibrations and delivering clean, consistent and repeatable cuts without the need for complex active anti-vibration systems.


The accuracy of cutting operations is continuously monitored by an advanced sensor system.
A MEMS-based inclinometer works in conjunction with rotary encoders to verify, in real time, the exact positioning and angle of the blade guide arm against the input parameters.
In addition, a network of inductive sensors and mechanical limit switches continuously monitors blade presence and tension, stopping machine movements in the event of blade breakage or obstacles.
The safety of the entire working area is ensured by three-beam safety barriers directly connected to the emergency circuit, protecting operators against accidental contact with moving machine components.
Integration with factory workflows represents a further technological advancement. The machine adopts CANopen industrial communication protocols for fast management of field sensor nodes, and TCP/IP for continuous interfacing with the company's management system.
All information relating to production cycles is managed through an SQL Server database, which coordinates incoming production orders and updates their progress in real time.
This IT architecture enables an advanced traceability module: each foam block and finished cut profile is assigned a QR code which, when scanned using dedicated applications, provides detailed historical data on the customer, the density of the original foam block, the machine used and the quality indicators of the cutting process.

Finally, the project introduces an innovative approach to technical service management through the implementation of an augmented reality-based maintenance module. Using wearable devices, such as smart glasses equipped with a high-resolution camera, Wi-Fi connectivity and an integrated display, operators can connect with the technical support centre to request remote assistance. Following the remote inspection carried out through telemonitoring, a service ticket can be opened, followed by the provision of the necessary materials or the organisation of the required maintenance service.

Finally, during on-machine maintenance operations, operators are supported by an integrated solution that uses a device, such as a smartphone, to provide access to the technical documentation of the machine tool and display, through Augmented Reality, the sequence of operations required to correctly carry out the repair procedure.