Flexible automation solutions

Quick installation, flexibility and space-saving are the main benefits of the automation solutions that KraussMaffei will present at K 2016 in Düsseldorf (October 19 to 26, 2016, Hall 15, Booths B24/C24/C27/D24). The highlights will include the new linear robot LRX TwinZ for complex stack-mold applications, the servopicker SPX 10, as well as a mobile industrial robot unit with the integrated control function Multisubmit.

In the TwinZ version, two LRX linear robots from KraussMaffei are mechanically coupled on a Z axis. TwinZ is predestined for the use of stack molds or for transferring components (handshake) during fast component demolding and stacking. This configuration also provides significant space and time savings for automation processes with overlapping motion ranges. In addition, both LRX robots and the injection molding machine can be programmed and controlled via the KraussMaffei MC6 control system. This provides significantly more comfort in the use of complex production processes. Configurations of up to four kinematic units (robots), each with six axes, are possible. At the KraussMaffei booth, visitors can see the advantages of multiple kinematics with the example of the FiberForm system. An LRX TwinZ-250 will heat the organic sheet and demold the finished component in parallel.

Another product guarantees compact, fast and space-saving features, the Servopicker SPX 10, which was introduced at Fakuma 2014.  Market feedback for this product has been excellent as the effective concept of the servo-driven sprue picker as one unit with the machine has met with a very good response from customers. The telescopic lift stroke makes the picker particularly well suited for use in low halls. The detached sprue is stored within the standard machine housing. This means that there is no need for a side extension in the form of a protective enclosure. This way, four machines can be installed in the same installation area instead of three. The servomotor enables the picker to operate extremely fast and saves on maintenance time and expensive compressed air compared to wear-prone pneumatic drives. The MC6 control system and the optimized parked position for the mold change round out the user-friendly features. At K 2016, the Servopicker SPX10 will demonstrate its flexibility as a small-part gripper for medical components.

Mobile robot cells from KraussMaffei provide great flexibility in production, thus increasing production efficiency. They can be moved without much trouble from one machine and connected to another. The core of the machine is a small robot from the IR100R1100 F/K series with a payload of 10 kg and a reach of 1100 mm. The main feature of this industrial robot is a high working speed and equally high precision. The simple integration of further peripherals, for example for quality inspection, is another advantage of the mobile cell. After component demolding, the quality of the molds is documented by camera. The integration of robot cells into the machine control system is a particularly appealing option. As with the fixed pendant installed on the machine, the injection molding machine can be operated via the handheld pendant of the robot control system. Conversely, the operator can control the automation cell via the MC6 control system of the machine.