Robot-supported CNC automation of a GF Machining MILL E 700 U
Automated CNC Machining is becoming increasingly important in modern manufacturing, as it enables consistent component quality and high machine utilization. In the machining automation shown here, the manufacturing process of a GF Machining MILL E 700 U is extended by a SherpaLoader®M25. The SherpaLoader®M25 automates the material supply, aligns the parts precisely and transfers them to the 5-axis machining center in a controlled manner. This results in stable processes with reduced non-productive times, increased process reliability and optimum machine productivity.
Complete production automation of a GF Machining MILL E 700 U with the SherpaLoader®M25
The raw parts are supplied via a SpaceBox with several drawers. The SherpaLoader®M25 automatically opens the individual drawers of the SpaceBox and detects the position of the blanks via the camera-based detection system. This camera-based detection enables the workpieces to be identified regardless of their position and ensures that they are removed safely even if their position varies. This reduces the risk of picking errors and the process remains stable.
Another advantage of the camera system is its flexibility with changing component geometries. Different workpieces can be recognized and gripped without time-consuming retooling, which significantly reduces set-up times. The robot is also equipped with two two-jaw grippers. With the blank gripper, the robot arm grips the first blank and transfers it to the alignment station. At the alignment station, the blank is aligned against a mechanical stop. This pre-positioning ensures that the workpieces are aligned with repeat accuracy before they are transferred to the vice of the GF Machining MILL E 700 U. Automatic clamping reduces manual intervention, increases process reliability and ensures reproducible clamping of the parts.
Synchronized processes and consistent component quality with the SherpaLoader®M25
While the GF Machining MILL E 700 U is machining the first Part, the SherpaLoader® M25 is already aligning the next Orientation of Blanks on the alignment station. Once Machining is complete, the robot removes the finished part with the finished part gripper and positions the next new blank, which has already been brought along, in the vice of the GF Machining MILL E 700 U. The robot arm then places the finished part back on the Raw Material Staging. These synchronized processes reduce non-productive times, increase the spindle running time and ensure consistently high component quality.
Increased efficiency and process reliability of the GF Machining MILL E 700 U with the SherpaLoader®M25
The automation of the GF Machining MILL E 700 U with the SherpaLoader® M25 increases the economic efficiency of production through stable processes and constant machine utilization. The combination of automated material provision, camera-based component recognition, precise alignment and synchronized processes leads to a significant reduction in manual intervention. This sustainably increases process reliability, repeat accuracy and machine availability. At the same time, automation relieves the strain on operating personnel, as manual activities such as material handling or cleaning are no longer required. The safe operation of automated production is guaranteed by the highest safety standards. Protective devices against reaching in, crawling under or reaching over, as well as light barriers and monitored access doors guarantee safe operation, ensuring high productivity and optimized operating costs.
