The GROB robot cell can combine the changeover of pallets, parts, vises and vise jaws. Also, the robot cell will clean, inspect and label the parts.
The GRC-R12 robot cell offers a flexible integrated automation solution for the GROB G150, G350a and G350 5-axis universal machining centers.
"Integrating automation is increasingly a key factor for maximizing machining productivity and reducing manual operations," said a GROB spokesperson. "Automation is designed to keep spindles running and provide significant cost savings over time. When you decide to automate, it is helpful to be aware of the available options. Equally important is working closely with your machine tool manufacturing/supplier. GROB Systems can provide total machining and automation solutions as a single-source offering advanced technology, expertise and application advise. In addition to its machining centers, GROB designs and builds custom pallet and part handling solutions in the USA."
The following provides an overview of some of the automation capabilities from GROB Systems that can help companies evaluate their machine automation requirements:
- Pallet changers allow for the loading and unloading of parts in the set-up station to occur while the machining center is actively running.
- Rotary tower and pallet storage systems automatically remove and load pallets into the machine for unmanned and lightly manned shifts. The rotary tower provides an economical entry into automation, and is easily retrofitted. The GROB rotary tower and pallet storage system offers easy access and views to the work area while maximizing floor space.
- Rotary pallet storage systems such as the GROB PSS-R feature an easy-to-use flexible GROB4 Automation HMI control with scheduling and tool resource planning available. The PSS-R can be configured for handling up to 20 pallets.
- Linear pallet storage systems offer many of the same features as the rotary system and can serve up to five machines per system with pallet storage of up to 24 with an extension module.
- Pair a single machine with a robot for automating part handing operations. For example, the GRC-R12 robot cell offers a flexible, customizable and affordable integrated automation solution for the GROB G150, G350a and G350 5-axis universal machining centers.
In another example from GROB, the GROB GRC-V offers an integrated camera and laser sensor on the robot for picking up parts. Parts can be fed in by pallets, hand carts or a space box. Robot payloads (including the gripper) on the GRC-V are either 44 or 132 lbs. The GRC-V is a good solution for parts that come from a billet or two parts.
- Pair multiple machines with a robot for automating part handling, including connecting different size machines. The GROB GRC R/L solution can be customized with deburring and a wash and marking station. Robot payloads (including the gripper) range from 44 to 110 lbs.
- Drawer units are offered for simple and efficient part loading during the machining process. An operator pulls/pushes trays into the loading area to load the material. A robot pulls/pushes trays to load material into the machine. In addition to a base drawer model with a maximum capacity of six-part trays, GROB offers a MODULA lift vertical storage system with larger tray widths, depths and load capacities.
- A pallet load station is convenient for loading pallets and fixturing parts. The GROB System has easy crane accessibility and offers a uniform size for 320 mm x 320 mm and 400 mm x 400 mm pallets.
- Grippers are available in different configurations, such as single and double pneumatic, and GROB offers an automatic gripper adjustment capability to accommodate different part sizes. This eliminates the need to stop production and make manual adjustments.
- Deburring units can be integrated to deburr parts after the machining process is complete. To automatically accomplish this, a robot with a motorized spindle is used to make tool changes inside the cell. GROB also offers an option for detecting tool breakage.
Additional features and capabilities can be configured to meet applications requirements, including adding blow-off cabinets to maintain cleanliness by removing contaminants, fluids and swarf. Part inspection/rejection can be streamlined and organized in drawers. Also, part identification via part marking makes it possible to efficiently distinguish a part or batches of parts from one another. A coolant system, combined with efficient chip evacuation that is built into GROB horizontal machines via their upside-down machining capability due to a retractable spindle, provides optimal flushing to keep the work area clean and free from chip buildup.
Automation by GROB is also available for critical internal processes. GSC Advanced (GROB Swivel Axis Calibration) is GROB's latest volumetric compensation technology, fully automating the compensation process between part changes or tool changes during the warm up cycle or as often as desired.
For more information contact:
GROB Systems, Inc.
Machine Tool Division
1070 Navajo Drive
Bluffton, OH 45817
info.us@grobgroup.com
www.grobgroup.com/en/