AUTOMATION | Engineering Capacity
High-mix, low-volume automation A compact modular machine tending system can automate the loading and unloading of parts, or material, to a wide range of machines. Easy to set up and with an intuitive interface, machine tending solutions can be easily integrated into new and existing production processes. Automated tending is the operation of machine tools within a manufacturing environment, incorporating robot automation systems. Historically machinetending applications were undertaken by operators (humans) and featured within machine shops whose primary processes included lathes and milling machines, as examples. Raw materials would be placed into the machine by the operator and removed once the machine had completed its cycle. The skills gap however has meant that qualified operators are becoming difficult to find and as a result, businesses are adopting robotic processes within their supply chains to ensure operational continuity. A robotic machine-tending process can be repeated continually, as raw parts are constantly delivered to the robot, minimizing cycle times and optimising operational processes by removing parts from the machine’s working area. Compact and easy to install, machine tending cells can be moved from one machine to another and, are easily reconfigured. Their ability to run autonomously for many hours 28
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means that they provide a very quick return on investment. The flexibility of a machine tending system means they can be easily adapted to satisfy an array of production demands and, key processes can be supported that will deliver increases in productivity and reduced operational costs. Not only can the loading and unloading of machines be supplemented, but the robot can also perform additional tasks, such as inspection. The mobile nature of the system means that several different tasks and applications can be supported across the operational footprint and, much like the mobile cobot solution that is available, the machine tending solution is a viable choice for SME’s as an all-encompassing tool with interchangeable applications across several tasks. There are several health and safety considerations that also
8 The MultiTend (MT-4) modular system has been designed and developed by DesignPro Automation, KUKA Ireland Platinum System Partner
support the adoption of automated machine tending. It can be dangerous work and a robotic solution can provide a level of consistency consummate with both throughput and, quality output demands. Robots replace the manual (human) element and assume the management of product movement. By design, robots have a higher level of accuracy and repeatability throughout the loading and unloading cycle. They do not tire nor suffer lapses in concentration. Repetitive and mind-numbing tasks will be attended by a dedicated robot. One additional benefit in the adoption of machine tending robots is their suitability of use in a ‘lights-out’ operation, or ‘dark factory manufacturing’ JULY 2020
