PRODUCT REVIEWS
Automated unloading for laser tube cutting
TRUMPF will be showcasing a new automated unloading system for its laser tube-cutting machines at the Tube trade fair in Düsseldorf , Germany ( 15-19 April 2024 ). Laser tube-cutting machines equipped with the automated unloading interface with longitudinal belt conveyor can automatically convey cut tubes to an automation system , which then sorts the parts or delivers them to the next production step for further processing . This , said TRUMPF , prevents errors and reduces the operator ’ s workload .
“ Laser tube cutting involves a high operator workload , which can be very challenging for many companies . Our solution helps companies to tackle the shortage of skilled workers while also improving capacity utilisation . The result is higher productivity and greater competitiveness ,” outlined TRUMPF product manager , Raphael Heinzelmann .
“ Compared to many other technologies , laser tube cutting requires significant operator involvement . TruLaser Tube machines are highly productive , which means a production worker needs to be available at regular intervals to remove and sort the cut tubes . With skilled staff in short supply , it can be hard for fabricators to find someone to carry out this task . In addition , the cut tubes tend to be large and unwieldy , so workers are often reluctant to take on this job . Our automated unloading system helps to solve this dilemma . The solution is available for TRUMPF 5000 and
7000-series TruLaser Tube machines ,” added the manufacturer .
In machines equipped with the new solution , the cut tubes are automatically deposited on a belt conveyor . This transports the parts to the automation system ’ s safety enclosure . Here , the parts are retrieved by a separate machine , known as an integrator , which might be a robot or some kind of handling device . TRUMPF uses integrators from partners such as Starmatik and Transfluid . None of this obstructs or limits the open concept of the laser cutting machine : users are still free to unload parts manually , an option that continues to be particularly advantageous for small batch sizes and intermediate products .
TRUMPF ’ s automated unloading system also features a digital interface that transfers all relevant information about the parts to the integrator . TRUMPF ’ s Programming Tube software makes this data available to the integrator automatically via the TruLaser Tube ’ s digital interface . This data makes the next stage simpler , for example by enabling the Starmatik robot to sort cut parts or convey them directly to the next step in the process without having to teach individual positions . This digitalisation solution also saves time and reduces the possibility of errors .
“ Our automated unloading system is a particularly good choice for medium- and highvolume manufacturers , as well as for job shops that handle orders of various sizes . Typical applications include furniture , fitness machines and agricultural machinery ,” explained TRUMPF .
TRUMPF ’ s automated unloading system is , said the company , “ the final link in the chain ” that enables every step in the tube fabrication process to be automated , including laser tube cutting . The company ’ s automated loading system , which enables raw material to be taken directly from storage and automatically loaded into the machine , has already been on the market for some time .
TRUMPF can also help users to automate their tube-bending and welding processes . To achieve these advances in the tube-processing chain , TRUMPF works with industry partners such as Starmatik , Transfluid and STOPA . n
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Accessibility-adapted press line for GEDIA
GEDIA has ordered an accessibility-adapted , press-hardening line from Swedish press specialist , AP & T . The adaptation means that the line will be designed to enable staff with physical disabilities to monitor and manage the process without hindrance .
“ It is important for us at GEDIA to make our workplace more inclusive . We are taking a step in the right direction by accessibilityadapting our new press-hardening line . It will be designed to enable operators with physical disabilities to monitor the process ,” said Björn Müller , project manager for new machines at GEDIA .
The new line will have a larger free area in front of the control panel to accommodate a wheelchair . The panel itself will also be set lower than usual . If an unexpected occurrence arises that cannot be managed from the control panel , a colleague can be asked for help .
“ We have what we call split work teams in all our production areas , so that no-one is
ever alone ,” explained Müller .
The new line , which is built on the latest press-hardening technology , will be used to produce body parts for a number of car manufacturers .
“ In view of our long-term cooperation with GEDIA , it is now extremely exciting to help make its production efficient and inclusive of people with physical disabilities in the role of line operator ,” added Jörgen Theander , Senior Customer Project Manager , AP & T .
The new accessibility-adapted , press-hardening line from AP & T .
GEDIA was founded over one hundred years ago ; its company headquarters is at Attendorn , North Rhine-Westphalia ( Germany ). It has been manufacturing products for the automotive industry since 1955 . It now has more than 4,700 employees in nine production plants and is also involved in joint ventures and research companies . n
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