Collaborative solution for CNC machine tending and pallet handling
Machine shops are undergoing an unprecedented transformation. Increasingly smaller batch sizes, high-mix production, difficulties in finding skilled operators, shorter lead times and the need to maximize the utilization of every machining center are changing the way manufacturers operate.
In many cases, the real bottleneck is not the machine tool itself, but material handling.
Preparing pallets for part handling, supplying production and keeping machines running during unattended shifts are activities that require time and resources while adding little value. This is why we developed ROBO FEED C3.
A collaborative robotic solution equipped with the FANUC CRX-30iA/L cobot, featuring a 30 kg payload, designed to automate the loading and unloading of parts directly from pallets, increasing machine tool autonomy while reducing operator intervention.
ROBO FEED C3 is a collaborative robotic cell designed for CNC machine tending through pallet-based part handling.
The system enables the robot to pick components directly from production pallets, load them into the CNC machine, unload the machined parts and automatically place them back onto the designated pallet, allowing the entire process to run autonomously.
The solution has been designed for easy integration into existing machine shop environments, without requiring major changes to the existing layout.
The goal is not simply to automate a machine tool.
Increased unattended production hours;
Higher CNC machine utilization;
Reduced idle time between machining cycles;
Improved production flow management;
Fast and precise cell relocation and repositioning thanks to floor-mounted zero-point systems; (1)
Easy access for secondary machining operations and machine maintenance;
Reduced repetitive manual tasks and improved operator safety;
Optimized inbound and outbound material flow;
Fast return on investment through increased productivity.
The cell has been designed to make operation simple and intuitive.
Throughout the entire process, the operator can prepare the next pallet without interrupting production.
The operator prepares one or more pallets with raw parts;
The operator selects the required production cycle via the HMI panel;
The robot picks a raw part from the pallet;
The robot loads the component into the CNC machine tool;
Once machining is complete, the robot unloads the finished part;
The finished component is placed onto the designated pallet;
The cycle continues until all parts on the pallet have been processed.
| ROBO FEED C33 | |
|---|---|
| Installed robot | Cobot Fanuc CRX-30iA/L |
| Payload | 30 kg |
| Robot reach | 1756 mm |
| Height | 950 mm without robot |
| Width | 2650 mm |
| Depth | 1420 mm |
| Installed robot | Cobot Fanuc CRX-30iA/L |
| Payload | 30 kg |
| Robot reach | 1756 mm |
| Height | 950 mm without robot |
| Width | 2650 mm |
| Depth | 1420 mm |
PLC-based control
with multitouch HMI
a reliable and responsive control system designed for a wide range of industrial environments.
Simple, guided interface
thanks to user-friendly software developed by ROBO FEED, operators are guided step by step through the operation of the robotic cell.
Integration with external systems
product master data and production flows can either be entered directly at the machine or imported from external ERP/MES systems.
(6) Tipping station
