Another ATM automated system for Rosti

Citation

(1999), "Another ATM automated system for Rosti", Assembly Automation, Vol. 19 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.1999.03319caf.007

Another ATM automated system for Rosti

Another ATM automated system for Rosti

Keywords: Assembly, Robots, ATM

Leicester based ATM Automation Limited has installed an automated cell for the production of computer network terminal chassis for Rosti, at their factory in Redhill (see Plate 4).

Following on from earlier installations of 30 robot systems on moulding machines, the latest equipment comprises an ATM ES2000, three axis, CNC, electric drive low headroom, take out robot. The production cell includes a Sandretto moulding machine with a single cavity mould to produce three sided, tray-shaped components measuring 440mm x 68mm x 44mm. The moulding tool has no ejector and the ATM machine uses an end-of-arm rotatable device with four vacuum pads to remove the components at a rate of one every 60 seconds.

Plate 4 Seen here the ATM ES2000 Inserting Station which has been installed as part of the automation and robotic system at Rosti supplied by ATM Automation

The ATM robot presents the component to an inspection monitor linked to a Hunkar SPC machine monitoring system. Any components not meeting with the moulding parameter limits are automatically marked for visual identification and removal by an operator further down the production line. Once a component is confirmed as passing inspection, the ATM robot rotates it through 180 degrees and the front is placed under a printer, where a manufacturer's logo is printed twice to avoid pinholes.

The robot then places the component vertically on a pallet waiting at a fixed point on a conveyor. The positioning of the pallet is sensed electronically and interlocks prevent the robot from releasing the component prematurely. The conveyor passes the components through a forced-air cooling tunnel and on to operators for final assembly and inspection.

This latest stage of automation at Rosti is part of an ongoing programme and has raised production efficiency by reducing the number of operators required from five to two, providing consistent quality control and increasing production throughput.

ATM is one of the largest privately owned companies in the UK to design and manufacture robotic and automated systems.

Inquiries to Robert Hopper, ATM Automation Limited. Tel: +44 (0)116 277 3607.