New Robotic system reduces cycle time for Routing Polymeric parts

Citation

(2008), "New Robotic system reduces cycle time for Routing Polymeric parts", Industrial Robot, Vol. 35 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2008.04935eaf.003

New Robotic system reduces cycle time for Routing Polymeric parts

Article Type: Mini features From: Industrial Robot: An International Journal, Volume 35, Issue 5

The new RoboTrim^® RT-1002 Robotic Routing System (Figure 4) has been launched by KMT Robotic Solutions, providing significantly reduced cycle times for trimming thermoformed, injection moulded and rotationally moulded parts. Many users believe that the best way to implement robotic routing applications is by using tool paths generated in CAM software and for this purpose, KMT offers TrimPro^® and CamPro™ CADCAM software. Using this combination, users can create programs offline, build virtual work cells, and simulate and optimise the cycle times of existing cells without building a prototype or bringing the system out of the production line.

Figure 4 The RoboTrim^® RT-1002 Robotic Routing System by KMT Robotic Solutions

The RT-1002 is the latest addition to KMT’s range of cost-effective, turnkey robotic router trimming systems and trims parts much faster than traditional five axis CNC systems, whilst offering enhanced trimming flexibility, cost savings as well as increased productivity, uptime and safety. The RT-1002 is designed for use on polymeric parts produced by thermoformers, plastics moulders and composite manufacturers for a wide range of industries including white goods, electrical appliance, automotive, bathroom equipment, consumer goods, marine craft and boatbuilding. The RT-1002 is also suitable for use in the aluminium industry.

Increased safety is ensured by an ergonomic design featuring a KMT AccuTrim^® R-44 robot mounted inside a closed steel enclosure with built-in safety devices. The system’s two-sided rotating table has a 455 kg part and fixture capacity and can rotate 915 × 1,524 mm (and sometimes longer and narrower) parts into and out of the cell in less than three seconds. This allows finished parts to be safely unloaded by the operator while unfinished parts are being trimmed inside the cell.

The RT-1002 comes with a variety of application-specific software tools. For example, KMT’s RouterWare^® Application Software reduces the time it takes to develop and adjust part programs. If problems arise, FANUC’s Collision Guard software will protect the robot and tooling in the event of a collision and KMT’s Remote Administration package enables KMT System Technicians to troubleshoot issues via a phone line or ethernet connection.

The RoboTrim RT-1002 can be customised to meet manufacturers’ specific trimming needs. Adding a second robot or the automatic tool change option will reduce cycle time and add even greater part size and trimming flexibility. KMT’s patented compliant knife can be incorporated into the tool change system to turn the RT-1002 from a router trimming solution into a deflashing cell. The RouterVac^® high-volume vacuum system improves part quality by holding the part securely to the fixture and removing chips from the trimming area.

For further information, please visit the web site: www.kmtgroup.com

Richard Bloss

Associate Editor