Robot integration to increase efficiency and process stability
Robot-supported automation with the SherpaLoader® M20 optimizes CNC machining on a Hurco VMX30Ui. Robot-supported machining reduces manual intervention, enables reproducible clamping processes and contributes to consistent component quality and higher machine availability. State-of-the-art safety equipment ensures the safety of the operating personnel.
Process automation of a Hurco VMX30Ui: From material supply to the finished part
Two Table Trolleys are used to provide material for raw parts and for depositing finished parts. The robot has two two-jaw parallel grippers and first picks up a raw part from the Raw Material Staging. A camera-based recognition system supports the precise detection of the component position. This enables flexible handling of different component variants without manual retooling of the material supply. It also reduces the need for manual loading of the Raw Material Staging. The SherpaLoader® M20 then positions the workpiece on the alignment station, which enables precise and repeatable positioning with a mechanical stop. This ensures stable and reproducible clamping in the vice of the Hurco VMX30Ui. The clamping process is automated via a Torque wrench. This enables the robot arm to open and close mechanical vices with a defined torque. Machine loading is also supported by an electric drive for the machine safety door, so that door opening and closing is automated and integrated into the process in a way that is safe for personnel. These measures ensure reproducible clamping conditions and contribute to stability in the machining process. As soon as the workpiece is securely clamped, machining begins in the Hurco VMX30Ui. Parallel to the machining process, the SherpaLoader® M20 prepares the next part. Once Machining is complete, the robot automatically cleans the workpiece with compressed air to remove residues such as chips or cooling lubricant. Automated cleaning prevents particles from being carried over into downstream processes and ensures clean clamping surfaces during removal. As a result, the clamping conditions remain consistently reproducible and the component quality is stabilized. In addition, maintenance work on clamping technology and tools is reduced as contamination is removed at an early stage. The robot arm then removes the finished part with the finished part gripper. The prepared new part is inserted in the same sequence, the clamping process is carried out again using the Torque wrench and Machining continues. The automated overlapping of loading and unloading processes reduces machine downtime and increases the spindle running time. After the machining process, the SherpaLoader® M20 repositions the finished part on the Raw Material Staging.
Safety monitoring for collaborative operation
The automated cell is equipped with safety devices to ensure safe interaction between people and machines. A safely monitored light curtain with a resolution of 30 mm allows body parts such as hands or arms to enter the work area. A monitored inspection door at the rear of the cell allows access for maintenance purposes. Robot Positions and speed are also continuously monitored to ensure safe operation at all times. Thanks to these protective measures, the system can also be operated safely in unmanned or unmanned mode.
Automated Machining with a Hurco VMX30Ui as a contribution to process reliability and resource utilization
The complete automation of the machining process on the Hurco VMX30Ui with the SherpaLoader® M20 not only reduces manual effort, but also improves process reliability and reproducibility. The camera-based component recognition enables flexible and safe handling of different component variants, while the automated door handling and standardized clamping technology ensure stable and consistent process conditions. Operators are freed up and can be deployed for higher-level tasks such as testing, set-up work or process monitoring. This results in a more efficient use of resources, which helps to stabilize the production cycle and ensure product quality.
