ISMR April 2024 | Page 49

FOCUS ON WELDING

“ Using simple programming , we can now also weld small batch sizes automatically [ and economically ],” said Gerst .
“ A torque sensor in each axis allows the cobot to be programmed and moved . The intuitive operation significantly increases work efficiency . Individual adjustments are possible on the user-friendly touch control panel with macros specially developed for welding . The Freedrive option with foot switch and the intelligent safety concept guarantee sensitive and safe control of the cobot . Another special feature is the simple restart after an emergency stop , as no extensive unlocking or free movement of the robot is necessary ,” CLOOS added .
The Cobot Welding System is equipped with the QINEO NexT MIG / MAG welding power source . For [ seamless ] interaction between the welding power source and the cobot , the welding control is integrated into the robot controller so that no additional controller is required .
The cobot can be easily programmed and moved .
The cobot welds in combination with the QINEO NexT welding power source .
Human-robot interaction
“ Cobots and employees share the tasks and complement each other perfectly ,” confirmed Gerst . “ Since the set-up and welding processes run in parallel , we were able to significantly increase our productivity .”
Due to the shortage of skilled workers , there have been difficulties in finding qualified personnel for years . With the cobots , the company can now produce more with the same number of employees .
“ The employees enjoy the new technology ,” explained Gerst . “ Working with high-tech systems usually motivates them more than manual welding .”
“ The cobots support and relieve the employees , especially from monotonous and repetitive tasks . In addition , the sheet metal specialist benefits from optimum welding results due to the consistent , reproducible quality of the cobot ,” highlighted CLOOS .
Cobot developments
Based on its positive experience with the cobots , Glüpker is planning further investments in this technology over the coming years .
“ The cobot systems are becoming better processed and there are also significant advances in terms of sensitivity and sensor technology ,” explained Gerst . “ I firmly believe that future development will continue [ more towards collaborative technologies ],” he said . He would like to see larger systems in the future so that more complex components can also be welded with cobots .
Gerst also praised the partnership and cooperative collaboration with CLOOS . “ The focus is clearly on the user and we can discuss new developments [ face to face ],” he concluded . n
https :// gluepker-blechtechnologie . de /
Manual welding technology , collaborative robotics , scalable automation solutions and data management solutions were showcased by CLOOS at last September ’ s SCHWEISSEN & SCHNEIDEN exhibition in Essen , Germany .
CLOOS automated welding technology can be integrated with handling and grinding applications in a production line . www . cloos . de

About CLOOS ( Carl Cloos Schweisstechnik GmbH )

“ A highlight on our exhibition booth was the automated high-tech production line , in which automated welding technology was integrated with handling and grinding applications in one production line . By combining innovative welding technology with upstream and downstream production processes , users can close automation gaps and significantly increase the efficiency of their welding production ,” CLOOS explained .
CLOOS RoboPlan software enables offline programming of automated robot welding systems , including the generation of welding and travel paths as well as sensor routines for 3D models and their direct transfer into the robot controller .
ISMR April 2024 | ismr . net | 49