Automation
Flexible Pallet Automation Achieves High Spindle Utilization
Toyoda Machinery offers modular and expandable automation with its Flexible Pallet Automation (FPA) systems.
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Robotic Pipe Welding, Cutting Solutions
Lincoln Electric Automation’s RoboPipe system integrates features and functions for automated pipe welding and fabricating of carbon steel, stainless steel or duplex stainless steel.
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Machine-Tending Robots
Denso says its VS and VM series of six-axis articulated robots are useful for machine tending as well as secondary material-handling operations including polishing, washing, measurement and inspection.
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The Automation Inspiration
Although automated manufacturing cells typically consist of standard products such as CNC machine tools, robots, pallets and cell control software, almost all of these systems rely on inventive concepts developed for the particular application. These "good ideas" often account for the outstanding productivity and flexibility of these systems. This article looks at several of the "good ideas" that characterize a cell comprised of seven wire EDM units and a robot on a rail transfer unit.
WatchGE, Fanuc Dissolve Joint Venture
GE and Fanuc have announced the completion of their agreement to dissolve the GE Fanuc Automation joint venture. Under the terms of the agreement, respective portions of the joint venture have reverted back to the parent company, allowing each to focus on its existing business and to pursue growth in its respective core industry of expertise.
Read MoreSmall Speed Regulator
 Deschner Mini-K leak-proof speed regulators are said to be popular in applications requiring a small, light weight feed control, and are often used in hand-held drill operations. Fully adjustable, the Mini K Kinecheks are available in 1/2", 1", 1 1/4" and 1 1/2 inch stroke lengths with a maximum capacity of 400 Ibs. Mini K Kinecheks are part of the line of Kinechek model speed regulators and offer the same patented, leak proof performance as the original Slimline Kinecheks, the company says.
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Toolpath Refinement Produces Finer Finish
CNC Software’s Mastercam X4 provides expanded machining flexibility and an increased emphasis on speed and automation. It also introduces 3D surface toolpath refinement, a technique that is said to deliver a much finer finish on complex parts.
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Software Enhancements For Milling, Turning, Wire EDM Cycles
The latest version of CAM software from DP Technology, Esprit 2010, includes enhancements for milling, turning and wire EDM cycles. Users can view the simulation state at any point in the process, and a stock automation engine calculates the stock model in the background to make simulation more efficient.
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The Responsiveness Robot
For this lean shop dedicated to low-inventory kanban relationships with customers, the most critical measure of efficiency revealed the value of robotic loading.
Read MoreConference To Focus On Robot Safety
Featuring an array of workshops, presentations and other activities, The National Robotic Safety Conference XXI invites attendees to explore the latest standards, technologies and products in robot and machine safety. Scheduled for October 26 through 28 at the Hyatt Regency Dearborn in Detroit, Michigan, the conference will be hosted by the Robotic Industries Association (RIA) and a group of sponsor companies.
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