FOCUS ON BENDING
During the 1980s , the primary objective of robotics was to produce large-volume components by replacing humans in tasks that involved high repetition of operations as well as heavy , stressful or ‘ devaluing ’ work . Today ’ s manufacturing needs have changed . The demand for small batches of products with short lifetimes and high variability requires robotics to evolve .
As a result , modern robotics must prioritise programmability ( preferably offline ), adaptability to different types of production and flexibility . Despite these advances , robots still require field testing after programming before they can move to production . One of the key forthcoming challenges in robotics will be to eliminate this testing phase and enable direct production .
Achieving the desired shape and fit when bending sheet metal requires careful consideration of multiple factors including the material type , thickness and component shape . Finding the optimum bending angle to achieve these goals is usually a challenging and time-consuming task . For example , based on the initial data and all subsequently acquired information , an artificial intelligence system could generate the ideal bending angle and tool selection that will ensure accurate and efficient bending while minimising waste from the very first part produced .
In the near future , we will be able to achieve the optimal bending angle on the first attempt , without failing , and angle control will no longer be necessary to reach the correct angle but to verify that the bending has been executed correctly . AI technologies can significantly help manufacturers to reduce costs while increasing production efficiency , thus benefitting the entire industry . n
Prima Power ’ s PSBB line processes blank sheets into ready-bent components automatically . PSBB stands for punching , shearing , buffering and bending .
www . primapower . com Prima Power ’ s PSBB automated line .
Prima Power bending solutions
Prima Power offers a comprehensive range of bending solutions from panel benders to press brakes and robotic bending cells . Its Fast Bend solution has been designed mainly for small production batches and can be integrated into automated systems . Its BCe Sharp entry-level and BCe Smart compact semi-automatic panel benders highlight Prima Power ’ s ability to offer diverse solutions . The BCe Bending Centre offers high levels of automation while the EBe Express Bender is the company ’ s solution for quick , highquality production batches .
A Prima Power robotised bending system .
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