Modular Machine Tending Platform for High-Mix, Low-Volume Production

Lyndex-Nikken has introduced the EZ-Tend modular CNC machine tending platform that is designed with lean tending in mind for high-mix, low-volume production.

The EZ-Tend is an easy-to-use industrial robotic machine tending platform with a compact footprint that is an automation solution within Lyndex-Nikken's EZ-Automation product line. The EZ-Tend is an off-the-shelf automation platform suited for first time or entry-level industrial robotic users, as well as experienced professionals wanting ease of use and set-up of an industrial robot for machine tending.

"Leveraging lean manufacturing processes, the EZ-Tend employs industrial robots to perform lean machine tending of CNC machines," said a company spokesperson. "Unlike traditional automation solutions, EZ-Tend focuses on simplicity and efficiency without the need to address robot programming or paths."

The core of EZ-Tend's simplicity lies in its use of a proven lean manufacturing technique: pallet changing. This approach enables the user to standardize on one of three pallet sizes: 6x6, 6x9 and 9x20. This flexibility is achieved through preconfigured drop-down options in the HMI. Easily understood for fast set-up, this eliminates the need for complex robot programming.

The EZ-Tend is capable of tending milling centers and turning centers. The EZ-Tend's Human Machine Interface (HMI) is designed for simplicity-allowing a nonrobot programmer to create a routine using an easy to read and understand menu with just one screen to set up a new program.

Key benefits of the EZ-Tend modular CNC machine tending platform include:

• Efficient operations-Enables one operator to run multiple machines, maximizing workforce efficiency and reducing labor costs
• Ease of use-Simple HMI in an off-the-shelf automation platform
• No robot Programming-Preconfigured pallet sizes streamline the automation process, making it easy for users with basic CNC operator experience.
• Increased spindle uptime-Spindles run more with assistance from automation
• Increased throughput-More throughput with unattended lights-out machining
• Lean tending automation-Enhances efficiency by automating the tending of CNC machines
• Versatile pallet handling-Standardizes pallet and conforms to lean manufacturing processes
• Optimized workpiece access-Easily reduce machining operations when paired with a 4th or 5th axis, allowing for more access to additional sides of a workpiece, optimizing machining processes and increasing part accuracy.

"Lyndex-Nikken's complete EZ-Automation product line is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring manufacturers a stress-free entry into Industry 4.0/5.0 and smart factory capabilities," said a company spokesperson. "All EZ-Automation products are based on being easy, modular and scalable automation solutions that will range from machine tending, to machine loading, to work changers and modular tending platforms."

For more information contact:

Lyndex-Nikken, Inc.

1468 Armour Blvd.

Mudelein, IL 60060

847-367-4800

sales@lyndexnikken.com

www.lyndexnikken.com