AIMS connects sequential tool manufacturing processes to manage production and data.
AIMS is modular with scalable options.
AutoComp is designed to ensure tool quality in lights-out production.
AutoFetch is mapped to the customer's factory to autonomously perform routine tasks.
AutoLine minimizes machine idle time.
AutoSet is the hub for tool pallet preparation and management.
The ANCA Integrated Manufacturing System (AIMS) connects the sequential processes in tool manufacturing so that cutting tool makers can realize the benefits of automation and integration. "The interconnected grinding technology solution eliminates wasteful manual handling, reduces machine downtime between batches and takes away the need to have operators constantly monitoring and adjusting production machines," said a company spokesperson.
"ANCA has the software and control capabilities to deliver a system for production management that tackles time, cost and labor inefficiencies where it counts," said Chris Hegarty, ANCA Group CEO. "We are delighted to be accelerating into the fourth industrial revolution with advanced, smart factory solutions for cutting tool makers, namely intelligent automation for connecting processes and data management."
AIMS offers modular functionality that can be adapted to each factory's needs, from smaller scale, data-based options to the full AIMS set-up across a series of machines. The system delivers a connected tool production process: transferring tools between operations with the AutoFetch robot; fully automating tool measurement and process compensation using AutoComp; and managing data via the AutoSet hub.
Central to any AIMS system is the AIMS Server that manages data flows between the elements of the AIMS system and established IT platforms, such as an ERP system. Customers can choose from a suite of auto solutions to reduce production costs and integrate systems to improve product and process quality.
AIMS Project Lead Duncan Thompson said: "Having automated options that can be applied in the real world and tailored to a machine shop's challenges means tool manufacturers can reap the advantages of integrated processes and systems in a practical way. Automation that works best is targeted to repetitive processes that can occur alongside value-adding individual skills. AIMS slots in to seamlessly automate routine processes. AIMS can be deployed to a single process or across an entire production line."
AutoMarkX is ANCA's tool marking solution designed particularly for the needs of cutting tool production. AutoMarkX is capable of automated pallet loading and takes care of the tool laser marking process, freeing up operators to perform more value-added tasks. AutoMarkX is designed for integration with AIMS, being able to automatically receive and dispatch pallets from AutoFetch, while connectivity to the AIMS Server provides details of the message to be marked on the tools.
Product Manager Jan Irzyk said: "This machine is efficient and compact-but more than that, it can be integrated with ERP and AIMS so that technology can work together. Removing the need for manual handling, our new laser marking solution pushes tool marking capabilities into lights-out production.
"For full production, flexibility is important. This system accommodates a variety of tool sizes as well as mixed batches. With an easy to use interface and customizable marking, it is a complete solution that boosts labor efficiency."
For more information contact:
ANCA Inc.
31129 Century Drive
Wixom, MI 48393
248-926-4466
usainfo@anca.com
www.anca.com