Streamline Your CNC Operations: How Automated Part Feeding Boosts Productivity and Efficiency

Keep Chips Flying! – Overcoming CNC Machine Utilization Challenges

Introduction

Machine shops typically operate CNC machines at only 60-70% capacity, and there are multiple reasons behind this. The lack of skilled operators is one factor. The manufacturing industry faces major challenges, including high job turnover rates of up to 50% and a projected labor deficit of over 10% by 2030. The younger generation’s disinterest in repetitive and low-skilled jobs contributes to this deficit. Finding one good candidate is difficult, but finding a second candidate for a second shift is even more challenging. But in today’s uncertain economic climate, with rising interest rates and global instability, wasting 30% of runtime is simply unaffordable.

Retrieve the Remaining 30% Promptly with a Robotic Machine Tending Solution

By utilizing a robot to supply parts consistently, the runtime of machines can be boosted by a minimum of 15%. This approach not only ensures more reliable loading and unloading procedures but also eliminates the risk of human errors commonly associated with repetitive and monotonous tasks.

Compared to manual tending, utilizing a CNC machine with a robotic system is four times more cost-effective. The Robotiq Machine Tending Solution enables machine shops to rapidly recoup their investment in CNC machines.

Meet the Machine Tending Solution

Robotiq redefines automated part feeding with a non-invasive and streamlined collaborative robot solution that empowers people, boosts productivity, and promotes adaptability, all while fostering a swift and cost-effective deployment.

Non-Invasive and Adaptable

The Robotiq Machine Tending Solution replicates the actions of a human operator on a CNC machine. The system monitors the machine’s status via signal lights, opens and closes the chuck with a foot pedal, picks and aligns parts, and starts the machine with the press of a button. The robot interfaces with the machine just like an operator would but without requiring communication cards, expensive wiring, custom programming, or permanent modifications. The solution doesn’t alter the CNC programs; external modules manage the communication between the CNC machine and the robot.

Benefits of the Non-Invasive Solution

1. Compatible with any CNC machine model, brand, or age, allowing manufacturers to effectively automate their production floor.
2. Standardized technology that facilitates knowledge transfer and training.
3. Deployment within a few hours. There is no production downtime.
4. Non-invasive solution means you don’t need to hack your CNC and risk voiding its warranty.
5. No complex programming is required. Avoid reliance on system integrators and ensure continuous production uptime even during changeovers.
6. Seamless transition from automated to manual part feeding to easily manage small quantities.

Streamlined Configurations

Machine tending applications are complex. The motion required is intricate in order to avoid collisions with the sensitive machining equipment. This complexity makes it difficult for both beginners and experienced users to program and redeploy quickly during changeovers. That is why the Robotiq Machine Tending Copilot software does not require programming skills. Configurations are grouped under assistant tools designed to simplify setups and guide users through a sequence of steps. The configurations include images for visual guidance and to support the development of employee expertise and autonomy.

Program Generator Feature

The Copilot software takes the complexity out by generating program templates tailored to the CNC machine type and gripper configurations. With a decade of expertise in machine tending applications, Robotiq’s engineering team has developed comprehensive features to automate the task list creation process in machine tending programs. This feature removes the need for users to think about the logic and list of steps behind a machine program. After the program is automatically generated, the user simply needs to follow the process and fill in the required information. Select the CNC machine type and gripper configuration to effortlessly unlock a program template.

Smart Move Feature

Teaching trajectories to the robot is quick with the Robotiq Machine Tending Smart Move feature. Teach up to 10 waypoints and set a safe “fly zone” by manually moving the robot to each position. Generating optimized robot motions without collisions is done in minutes and without the need for programming. Non-robot experts can effortlessly and confidently teach the robot and build reliable programs.

New to the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution

• New Multichrome Sensor – Intelligent sensors that automatically adjust to any signal light color and frequency.
• New Controller Box – Now five communication ports to accommodate for extra device management.
• Enhanced Monitor Machine State Interface – Intuitive configuration and setup.

Conclusion

Don’t let a 30% production runtime increase go to waste. Discover the potential of Robotiq’s Machine Tending Solution in bridging the gap in workforce availability, especially for night shifts and repetitive tasks. Embrace this opportunity to maximize your production runtime and stay ahead in the current economic landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution?

The Robotiq Machine Tending Solution is a non-invasive and streamlined collaborative robot solution that empowers people, boosts productivity, and promotes adaptability, all while fostering a swift and cost-effective deployment.

What are the benefits of the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution?

The benefits of the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution include compatibility with any CNC machine model, brand, or age, standardized technology that facilitates knowledge transfer and training, deployment within a few hours, and seamless transition from automated to manual part feeding to easily manage small quantities.

What is the Program Generator Feature?

The Program Generator Feature is a feature of the Copilot software that takes the complexity out by generating program templates tailored to the CNC machine type and gripper configurations.

How do I use the Smart Move Feature?

The Smart Move Feature is quick and easy to use. Teach up to 10 waypoints and set a safe “fly zone” by manually moving the robot to each position.

Is the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution scalable?

Yes, the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution is scalable and can be easily integrated with your existing production line.

What is the cost of the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution?

The cost of the Robotiq Machine Tending Solution is highly dependent on the specific needs and requirements of your business. Please contact us for a quote.