From Pixels to Pallets
Hey everyone! We are SNS Automatyk, a group of automation enthusiasts based at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at Wrocław University of Science and Technology. In our society, we have a simple philosophy: we take the complex theories we learn in lectures and turn them into working, physical models. Our portfolio already includes everything from CNC machines to IoT projects, but our latest challenge—the "High-Bay Warehouse"—is perhaps our most ambitious bridge between the digital and physical worlds.
SNS Automatyk team
The project actually began as an engineering thesis by our member, Grzegorz Cyba, who developed a sophisticated control algorithm and simulation within Factory IO. While the simulation was a success, we felt the best way to truly test our skills was to bring those pixels into the real world. To do this, we are constructing a custom mechanical system designed to handle transport and palletising tasks with high precision. The skeleton of our warehouse is built from V-slot extruded aluminium profiles and custom parts we’ve produced ourselves using additive manufacturing. At the heart of it all sits a Programmable Logic Controller that communicates with a Human Machine Interface panel, allowing us to translate user commands into real-time movements for our stepper and servo motors.
Factory IO Simulation view from engineer thesis
Main panel on Siemens HMI from engineer thesis
A major turning point for this project was receiving support from the RS Student Fund. In the past, our projects often relied on hobbyist-grade gear, but this funding has allowed us to integrate industrial-grade sensors and components. For us, this is a game-changer; it means we are no longer just building toys, but working with the same professional equipment we will encounter in our future careers. Beyond the hardware, we are also handling the entire electrical and control installation ourselves to ensure we gain as much hands-on experience as possible.
The photo shows the layout of the warehouse
Ultimately, this project is about more than just building a machine; it’s about preparing ourselves for the industry. As a project group, we are developing both the hard - technical skills and the soft - teamwork skills that are so vital today. We are also committed to creating full technical documentation so that our knowledge stays within the society, helping new members understand exactly how the system works and how to control it.
We have just wrapped up the design phase and are now eagerly waiting for the components to arrive so we can start testing the control algorithm. Our goal is to have the first phase of the project completed by December 2026, and we can’t wait to share the final results with you all!.
Have you ever tried to turn a digital simulation into a physical prototype? What was the biggest challenge you faced when moving from software to hardware? Let’s discuss in the comments below!
Written by Michał Grześkowiak
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