Robotic Solutions Showcases Automated Finishing at IWF 2026

CMA Inverted Shuttle Spray System Loaded by KUKA Robotics

At the 2026 International Woodworking Fair (IWF) in Atlanta, Robotic Solutions brought together two powerful automation technologies to showcase what’s possible when robotic material handling and automated finishing work together.

At Booth B7111, visitors saw a CMA Inverted Shuttle Spray System loaded and unloaded by a KUKA robot, demonstrating an integrated approach to automating the finishing process for wood manufacturers.

This unique combination highlighted how manufacturers can move beyond automating a single step and instead create a more connected, efficient production process.

A New Approach to Automated Finishing

The CMA Inverted Shuttle is designed to provide an efficient solution for automated spraying while maximizing valuable floor space. Unlike traditional floor-mounted shuttle systems, the Inverted Shuttle operates from an overhead configuration, creating a compact footprint while maintaining the flexibility needed for automated finishing.

At IWF, Robotic Solutions paired the CMA system with a KUKA industrial robot responsible for handling the parts going into and out of the spray system.

The result was a working demonstration of how material handling and finishing can be integrated into one automated process.

KUKA Robotics Meets CMA Finishing Technology

The KUKA robot demonstrated the ability to handle cabinet doors and position them onto the CMA Inverted Shuttle for the finishing process.

This type of integration can help manufacturers address several common challenges in today’s production environment:

• Labor shortages – Automate repetitive material-handling tasks that can be difficult to staff.
• Improved consistency – Create a repeatable process for moving parts through production.
• Increased efficiency – Reduce manual handling between production steps.
• Better use of floor space – The overhead design of the Inverted Shuttle can help preserve valuable production floor space.
• Scalable automation – Build an automated process around the specific needs and production goals of the manufacturer.

More Than a Robot — An Integrated Solution

One of the most important things we wanted visitors to see at IWF was that Robotic Solutions isn’t simply supplying a robot or a spray machine.

We are an integrator, bringing together the right technologies to create a complete solution around the customer’s process.

The CMA Inverted Shuttle and KUKA robot demonstration is a great example of this approach. Each piece of equipment performs an important function, but the real value comes from making the two systems work together as one automated process.

Our team works with manufacturers to understand their parts, production requirements, available space, labor challenges and future goals before developing a solution.

Bringing Automation to the Woodworking Industry

IWF gave us the opportunity to have conversations with manufacturers from across the woodworking and furniture industries who are looking for practical ways to incorporate automation into their facilities.

Whether the goal is automating finishing, material handling, machine tending, sanding, milling or another repetitive process, the right automation solution can help manufacturers improve throughput while allowing their employees to focus on higher-value tasks.

The response to the CMA Inverted Shuttle and KUKA demonstration reinforced what we see every day: manufacturers are looking for automation that solves real production problems.

What’s Next?

The system showcased at IWF is just one example of what Robotic Solutions can develop for manufacturers.

From CMA robotic finishing systems to KUKA material-handling and machine-tending applications, our team designs and integrates automation solutions around the customer’s specific process.

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every manufacturing operation has different challenges, production volumes, space limitations and goals. Our job is to find the right combination of technology to meet you where you are.

Interested in seeing what automation could look like in your facility?

Contact Robotic Solutions to discuss your application and explore how a customized robotic solution can improve your manufacturing process.