Technology Tuesday: Automation Fuels Productivity

Multi-component tooling systems squeeze more production out of each mold. Zahoransky delivers molds and automated production cells, like the one shown here, for toothbrushes that are sold all over the world. Images courtesy of Barbara Schulz.

Read the related article from 2017, “International Perspective: Tooling Systems Squeeze More Production out of Each Mold.”

Consider robots in part and mold design, and molding processes to increase part quality and meet growing customer demands. Evco Plastics describes flexible automation, like this six-axis robot, as a smart choice when more freedom of movement is required for a process.

Read the related article from 2016, “Incorporating Robotics.”

Automated cells with RFID technology facilitate a “productionized” approach that helps this shop make molds more accurately and efficiently. An Industrial Molds employee loads palletized carbon blanks randomly into the carousel of the company’s Mikron carbon-cutting cell. RFID scanners along the left side of the carousel door read RFID chips on each carbon holder to locate the correct workpiece so the Erowa Multi robot knows when to retrieve it and in which machine to place it. Automation using RFID technology has been a game-changer for Industrial Molds, leading to faster, more accurate mold manufacturing processes. Images courtesy of Industrial Molds Inc.

Read the related article from 2017, “Powerful Production.”

Defining expectations and determining the ROI of collaborative robots help guide sound investment choices. Cobots can be “fenceless robots,” but only after a business performs a risk assessment. Image courtesy of Yaskawa America, Motoman Robotics Division.

Read the related article from 2017, “The True Cost of Cobots.”

Automated NC programming requires a strategy to yield improved productivity, quality and consistency. CAM software enables simulation of roughing a mold block. Images courtesy of Open Mind Technologies USA Inc.

Read the related 2015 article, “CAM Automation is a Process, not a Goal.”

EMO Hannover 2017 was a showcase for EDM developments, automation solutions and software for data-driven manufacturing. Erowa’s Robot Dynamic Linear handling system connects machining centers, EDM machines, milling machines and measuring and cleaning stations to enable unmanned, efficient production. Image courtesy of Barbara Schulz.

Read the related article from 2017, “Realizing EDM's Full Potential with Automation.”

Process automation is one of the fastest-growing strategies for overcoming capacity constraints in a mold shop. An automated hard milling cell featuring two vertical machining centers tied to a common coordinate measuring machine (which is shown here), a modern control system with on-board interactive maintenance guides and the ability to probe workpieces in the machine can all positively impact the overall use of a shop. Image courtesy of Makino.

Read the related article from 2017, “Using Automated Technology to Fill the Skills Gap.”

Shops are facing increased demand for shorter lead times, improved quality and lower costs. Automation offers several key advantages for overcoming these challenges. Automated cells like this one can integrate sinker EDMs and high-speed machining centers with robots and coordinate measuring machines. Image courtesy of Fairway Molds and Makino.

Read the related 2016 article, “Adopting Automation.”