Assignment

The objective of this project was to modernise an existing handling system for a press. Thin sheet-metal blanks of different thicknesses should automatically be removed from a pallet and fed through a progressive press tool. In a downstream operation, the bent parts are to be outfitted with a component. Different free-form geometries of flexible parts had to be taken into account for the specified cycle time here.

Solution

GRITEC developed an innovative press transfer handling system with five independent X- and Y-axes which was added onto the existing press. A loading unit with an alignment station ensures precise positioning of the parts. A quick-change system for grippers enables the quick swapping of tools for different products. The handling portal with a length of approximately 8 metres ensures efficient movement of the parts. Final assembly involves an intelligent feed system for the additional part and a six-axis robot.

Customer benefits

This retrofit solution from GRITEC has resulted in a significant increase in efficiency of the existing press. Integration of the loading unit and the quick-change system reduced conversion time and increased flexibility while handling different part geometries. Precise process monitoring and automatic assembly of the additional parts ensures consistently high product quality. Overall, the customer benefited from considerably better production output and a shorter cycle time.