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Smartly automating a VMC

10/01/2012
END USER: K-Fab Inc., (408) 727-5311, www.k-fabinc.com. CHALLENGE: Increase spindle utilization for a vertical machining center while reducing labor requirements. SOLUTION: A nonrobotic automation system for VMCs. SOLUTION PROVIDER: Simons Design Innovation, (408) 398-3296, www.simonsdesigninnovation.com
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Rise of the robots

One constant fear in regard to automation is that it will make human workers obsolete. Citing a 2013 University of Oxford study, University of Cincinnati Assistant Professor of Economics Michael Jones wrote that almost half of those employed in the U.S. are at risk of being replaced by automation over the next 10 to 20 years, with transportation, logistics and administration as the most vulnerable occupations.

Robot Compact 80

Much like its predecessor, the EROWA Robot Compact 80 has a small footprint (less than 22 sq. ft.) and can load two machines, but a number of upgrades reportedly has made it an ideal solution for tool and mold making.

Top Loader Loading System

WALTER says it offers a completely new type of loading system for new machines of the types HELITRONIC MINI POWER, HELITRONIC DIAMOND EVOLUTION and HELITRONIC ESSENTIAL. The new space-saving and cost-effective automation solution "Top loader" is integrated directly into the machine, therefore requiring no additional floor space and no restriction of the working envelope of the machine.

ECO Compact 20 Automation System

Lang Technovation Inc. has introduced its new ECO Compact 20 space-saving and simple automation system.
The ECO Compact 20 is reportedly designed for complete ease of use and flexibility within a production shop. It is ideal for use with vertical machining centers, housing 20 pallets in a 2m x 2m footprint, saving valuable manufacturing space without sacrificing capacity.

Putting a forklift into the industrial Internet of Things

Forklifts—the workhorses of the plant floor—are more valuable than ever at ITAMCO (Indiana Technology and Manufacturing Cos.). The Plymouth, Ind.-based manufacturer of gears and other precision components connected its forklifts to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), which integrates machine tools and other manufacturing equipment with networked sensors and software.