Robot-assisted material handling and precise process control on a HURCO VMX 30i with the SherpaLoader® M25
The automation of machining processes with robots is becoming increasingly important in manufacturing. In combination with the
Material supply and camera-based component recognition with SherpaLoader® M25 on the HURCO VMX 30i
Intelligent material provision forms the basis of machining automation. The raw parts are provided via a SpaceBox with several drawers The SherpaLoader® M25 automatically opens the drawers of the SpaceBox and detects the position of the raw parts via the camera-based detection system. The camera-based detection system reliably identifies workpieces, even in varying positions, and enables safe removal without manual inspection. This reduces the risk of picking errors and increases process stability. Equipped with two two-jaw grippers, the robot ensures safe and stable transport of the workpieces. With the raw part gripper, the robot arm picks up the first raw part from the Raw Material Staging and positions it on the alignment station. The combination of camera-supported detection and precise gripping ensures repeatable handling and minimizes transport damage.
Precise alignment and clamping with the SherpaLoader® M25 on the HURCO VMX 30i
On the alignment station, the SherpaLoader® M25 positions the blank against a mechanical stop. This precise pre-positioning ensures that the workpieces are aligned with repeat accuracy before they are transferred to the vice of the HURCO VMX 30i. Automatic clamping reduces manual intervention, increases process reliability and ensures consistent component quality. Precise alignment minimizes corrections during Machining, which supports production stability. After alignment, the robot transfers the part to the work area of the HURCO VMX 30i.
Synchronized processes and continuous material flow with the SherpaLoader® M25 on the HURCO VMX 30i
While the HURCO VMX 30i is machining the current Part, the SherpaLoader® M25 is already aligning the next blank on the alignment station. Once Machining is complete, the robot removes the finished part with the finished part gripper and positions the new blank in the vice. The robot arm then places the finished part back on the Raw Material Staging station. These synchronized processes reduce non-productive times, optimize machine utilization and ensure consistently high productivity. The parallel preparation of the next raw part supports a continuous material flow and increases the spindle run time.
Maximizing the efficiency and process reliability of a HURCO VMX 30i with the SherpaLoader® M25
The automation of the HURCO VMX 30i with the SherpaLoader® M25 increases efficiency through stable processes and reduced personnel costs. Camera-based detection, precise alignment and synchronized process steps increase repeat accuracy and ensure process stability. At the same time, automation relieves the strain on operating personnel, as manual activities such as material handling or clamping are no longer required. To ensure the safe operation of automated production, safety devices are installed to prevent reaching in, crawling under and reaching over, as well as light barriers and a door with a proximity sensor, which monitor the work area and prevent tampering. This ensures high productivity and safe operation at the same time.
