ABB has introduced FlexCutLaser, a pre-engineered robotic cell for laser cutting applications. FlexCutLaser is designed to be a flexible, configurable, compact, precise and pre-validated robotic laser cutting solution for ultra high strength steel, tubular steel and hydroformed parts.
"Robotic laser cutting offers state-of-the-art automation and improved quality control using advanced shape-generating software that makes it easy to quickly produce precision paths," said a company spokesperson. "ABB FlexCutLaser cells have the flexibility to be adapted to multiple parts for quick changeover in response to market demand."
ABB's software, rigid arm design and Iterative Learning Control (ILC) are designed to provide the most accurate path creation. "ABB's QuickMove and TrueMove path planning software enable the robot to meet the demanding path following requirements that are required for laser cutting," said the spokesperson. FlexCutLaser's self-contained, palletized and modular design is built for easy cell transport, minimum set-up time and maximum flexibility in a limited amount of floor space. Multiple configurations are available depending on specific part cutting requirements.
RobotStudio Cutting Powerpac is designed for fast, accurate off-line programming. "Robotware Cutting software offers optimized motion control with Absolute Accuracy, ILC, Advanced Shape Tuning and Wrist Move," said the spokesperson. "Using predefined templates for standard shapes like circles, rectangles, hexagons, slots and free-forms saves programmers hours of complicated work. These shapes can be easily relocated by shifting a single frame."
The following are the features of the FlexCutLaser software:
- ILC
- Friction tuning
- Advanced cell error handling
- Interactive graphical user interface (GUI)
- Navigator tool for fixture calibration
- Absolute Accuracy for CAD to path optimization
- Virtual RobotStudio station for offline simulation
The following are the features of the FlexCutLaser hardware:
- Laser BullsEye - TCP tool
- IPG or Trumpf laser
- Water chiller package
- Cutting head with auto-height compensation
- Safety package with light-tighten closure
- CDRH certification compliance
- Optional PLC, fume extraction, slug conveyor
IRB 4400 and IRB 2400 Robots
Laser configured IRB 4400 or IRB 2400 robots are built to enhance path performance. "The parallel arm design provides outstanding stiffness and minimizes resonance and vibrations affecting the quality of the laser cutting process," said the spokesperson. "Combined with the pre-validated robot cable dress package, designed to handle the laser fiber and process gas and signals, the robot maintains optimal path control of the laser head."
IRBP Positioners
ABB fourth-generation robotic positioners are available in many payload and mechanical configurations. Two-station turntables, ferris wheels, skyhooks and head-tail stock positioners are available as standard ABB products that are integrated into FlexCutLaser workcells. "ABB positioners share the same dynamic kinematic model advantages as the robots, making them fast, accurate and reliable," said the spokesperson.
Calibration and GUI
The patented ABB BullsEye is designed for accurate definition and automatic calibration of the robot's tool center point (TCP). "Precise laser head TCP is critical to maintain cutting path performance," said the spokesperson.
GUI through the robot FlexPendant allows the user to effectively communicate with the cell's functionality and provide the user with pertinent information regarding the cell's performance and settings.
For more information contact:
ABB Robotics, Inc.
1250 Brown Road
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
248-391-8622
www.abb.com/robotics