Okuma + robot: Camera-controlled CNC automation for lathes

The loading of an Okuma machine by the SherpaLoader® is completely automatic. Workpieces are recognized by the camera, picked up and precisely inserted into the spindle. As a result, the machine runs without interruption, while manual intervention is no longer necessary. The result is significantly higher spindle utilization. Production capacities are optimally utilized and production can be stable and efficient over Lengthwise periods - even in unmanned operation.

Automation replaces time-consuming manual work during workpiece feeding. Employees no longer have to perform repetitive tasks and can concentrate on value-adding activities. This noticeably reduces personnel costs and increases productivity at the same time. More is produced with less effort and production remains reliable even when there is a shortage of skilled workers.

The robot arm works with consistent precision. Workpieces are positioned exactly and handled safely, regardless of their weight or shape. This results in consistent production quality across all series. Rejects are reduced, rework is minimized and process reliability is permanently increased.

With SherpaLoader® automation, Okuma machines can produce around the clock - regardless of shift times or personnel availability. This means maximum capacity utilization, consistent quality and a significant reduction in unit costs.

The SherpaLoader® relieves skilled workers of monotonous loading activities and reliably takes over these tasks. This allows qualified employees to use their time for value-adding activities while the Okuma machine continues to work automatically. This actively compensates for the shortage of skilled workers and ensures long-term competitiveness.

The Genos L series benefits from the flexible material feed of the SherpaLoader®. It is particularly suitable for small batch sizes and can automatically edit both shafts and inserts. Automatic unloading is possible when feeding with a bar loader. Workpieces do not have to be stackable, and the compact design allows flexible installation even in confined spaces.

Thanks to automation with SherpaLoader®, the LB series achieves a high workpiece capacity in a very small space. In addition to small batch sizes, inserts, shafts, semi-finished products and cast parts can also be handled automatically. Robots with a workpiece weight of up to 73 kg* enable the safe turning of heavy parts. Retrofitting is carried out from a single source, is compatible with Okuma OSP and can also be integrated in confined spaces. *Handling weight depending on workpiece center of gravity

The LT series also becomes an efficient automation solution thanks to the SherpaLoader®. It is suitable for small batch sizes as well as for inserts, shafts, semi-finished products and castings. Robots weighing up to 73 kg can handle heavy parts. Unloading is possible when feeding with bar feeders. Retrofitting is carried out from a single source and is fully compatible with Okuma OSP.

With the SherpaLoader®, the Multus series becomes the ideal platform for complex turning and milling operations. It offers a high workpiece capacity in a very small space and is suitable for both small and large batch sizes. Thanks to the milling spindle, generous space and numerous tool stations, milled parts as well as turned parts can be inserted automatically - from cast parts and saw cuts to shafts and semi-finished products. Even standard Euro pallets can be used as material feeders. Machines without automation preparation can also be retrofitted. The systems are compatible with Fanuc and Siemens controllers and can be set up flexibly, even in confined spaces. Robots with a workpiece weight of up to 73 kg enable even heavy parts to be turned safely.

The SherpaLoader® turns the Okuma Genos M into a highly flexible production cell. Small and large workpieces can be fed automatically, an optional turning station enables backworking and several workpieces can be clamped simultaneously on the large machine table. None of the zero-point clamping is required, so the machine can be equipped with different clamping devices at any time - mechanical clamping devices are sufficient. The solution is suitable for both stackable and non-stackable workpieces. Machines without automation preparation can also be retrofitted. The systems are fully compatible with the Okuma robot interface and the OSP control system.

The SherpaLoader® is compatible with both New Okuma machines and existing systems. Machine tools have been equipped with bus interfaces for automation for over 15 years - the common standards Profibus, Profinet and EtherNet/IP are supported.

Machines without a bus interface can also be automated: MAFU-SHERPA connects them via M functions and potential-free contacts. This is done in compliance with directives and without expensive retrofitting by the machine manufacturer.

Retrofitting is carried out step by step and without complicated processes. After a short planning phase, the system is installed and put into operation. Commissioning is quick and easy, so that the Okuma machine continues to work productively without Lengthwise interruption.

Every Okuma machine has different requirements. In a personal consultation, we analyze which SherpaLoader® system is the best fit. This results in a customized automation concept.

Experience SherpaLoader® technology in action. A live demonstration will show how automation works on Okuma machines and what efficiency increases are possible. Make an appointment now: Telephone: +49 711 2525 744 - 0 E-mail: info@mafu-sherpa.com

An individual offer is prepared on the basis of the analysis. A profitability calculation clearly shows how quickly the investment in automation will pay for itself.

From the initial consultation to commissioning, MAFU-SHERPA accompanies the entire process. The implementation is simple and practical, so that the Okuma machine quickly automates production.