Hirata
Loading and unloading machine tools
Hirata has developed a new robot cell for the automated loading and unloading of machine tools to increase productivity and reduce the workload of production staff.
The automation unit consists of six main components: Palletizer, two transport carriages, 6-axis robot with dual gripper unit, cleaning station and optical measuring station. The scope of services also includes the control connection of the automation unit to the machine tool and a higher-level computer. Hirata has automated the handling of the pallets loaded with workpieces, the loading and unloading of the machine tool with the workpieces, the alignment of the workpieces and the cleaning and measuring of the finished parts after machining.
The 6-axis robot picks the raw parts from the pallet using the SKIP function and brings them to the alignment station. The robot then loads the machine tool with the raw parts or removes the finished parts from the machine tool, takes them to the cleaning station and then to the measuring station before placing them back on the corresponding pallets.
The palletizing system, designed for different types of foam pallets, places the raw parts in pallets ready for processing. After processing, the pallets are stacked again with the finished parts. The palletizer is loaded and unloaded with pallets without interrupting the actual automation process.
The optical measuring station integrated in the automation unit checks the finished parts 100% after cleaning. The measurement data obtained here is passed on to a higher-level computer, which determines the target/actual differences and sends them back to the automation unit. A finished part that is defined as good is placed back on a pallet by the 6-axis robot in exchange for a raw part. The NiO parts are discharged on corresponding conveyor belts.
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