"There is a huge benefit in automating production CNC machine tools," said a BAHMÜLLER spokesperson. As the industry is migrating more and more towards fully automated systems and connected manufacturing solutions, including buzz words like Industry 4.0, the customer demand and expectation towards the machine tool supplier is increasing.
BAHMÜLLER has developed its own automation solution. The result is a modular loading cell named FEED which was originally revealed to the public during the AMB show in Stuttgart, Germany in September of 2018.
"The customer feedback was very positive and the FEED was welcomed and openly accepted by the audience," said the spokesperson. "The acceptance was further proven with the successful sale of several FEED loaders to multiple customers within the automotive industry located in Europe and Asia."
When BAHMÜLLER developed the FEED cell, the design team had modularity and flexibility on their minds. As a standalone turn-key system with its own Siemens control, the FEED will integrate seamlessly with all BAHMÜLLER grinding machines. However, it can also be paired with third-party machine tools or testing and assembly equipment utilizing the defined modular interface. "What sets the FEED further apart is the modular design with the integrated 6-axis robot," added the spokesperson. While the robot is responsible for the workpiece handling, the end of arm tooling (EOAT) can accommodate a large variety of grippers for many different applications. Depending on the workpiece, the part storage itself can either be as bulk material, different types of pallet, rails or via conveyer belts. This allows for a wide range of workpiece buffer time and enables the machine tool to become a fully autonomous system, boosting customers productivity, especially in multiple shift production.
Standard basic modules of the FEED include the shuttle, SPC as well as NOK. Additional modules like pre- and/or post-measuring stations, blow off box, deburr solutions as well as camera systems for part traceability (DMC) are available and can be added as needed. This allows for a customization of the loading cell to match the needs of each client.
The standardization of the FEED and its components helps to reduce engineering efforts which ultimately benefits the customer with a reduction in lead time and cost. An additional benefit is the floor space savings through the innovative sandwich design of the loading cell. Moreover, the system is retrofit friendly, allowing for modifications of already delivered units in order to adapt to the ever-changing industry requirements.
For more information contact:
Bahmueller Technologies Inc.
2321-A Distribution Street
Charlotte, NC 28203
704-587-3506
info@bahmueller-usa.com
www.bahmueller-usa.com