Linear robots have been widely used in the automated loading and unloading of CNC machine tools due to their simple structure, stable operation, and strong load capacity. The following will introduce in detail how to use linear robots to achieve automatic loading of parts.
1. System composition
Linear robot body: Including motor, transmission mechanism, guide rail, etc., responsible for linear movement in the three directions of X, Y, and Z.
End effector: According to the shape and material of the part, select a suitable fixture or vacuum suction cup, etc.
CNC machine tool: Need to be linked with the linear robot to achieve automatic exchange of parts.
Control system: Including PLC, servo drive, human-machine interface, etc., responsible for the coordinated control of the entire system.
Safety protection devices: Such as light curtains, safety doors, etc., to ensure the safety of operators.
2. Workflow
Material collection: The linear robot moves to the top of the material tray, and the end effector clamps the part.
Transportation: The linear robot transports the part to the top of the CNC machine tool station.
Loading: The linear robot accurately places the part on the CNC machine tool station.
Unloading: After the CNC machine tool is finished, the linear robot removes the processed parts.
Placement: The linear robot places the processed parts in the specified position.
3. System design and programming
Motion path planning: According to the size of the parts and the layout of the CNC machine tool, the motion path of the linear robot is planned to avoid collision.
Coordinate system establishment: Establish the world coordinate system, tool coordinate system and workpiece coordinate system to achieve precise positioning.
Program writing: Use the programming language of PLC or robot controller to write the control program to achieve coordinated movement of each axis.
Simulation verification: Before actual operation, perform offline simulation to verify the correctness of the program.
4. Precautions
Accuracy requirements: The accuracy of the linear robot directly affects the processing quality, and high-precision motors and transmission mechanisms should be selected.
Rigidity: The linear robot should have sufficient rigidity to ensure stability under high-speed operation.
Repeatability: Repeatability is an important indicator to measure the performance of the linear robot, and products with high repeatability should be selected.
Safety: The linear robot should be equipped with complete safety protection devices to prevent accidents.
Ease of use: The control system should have a user-friendly interface for easy operation and programming.
5. Advantages
Improve production efficiency: Automated loading and unloading can reduce manual intervention and improve production efficiency.
Improve product quality: Accurate positioning and repeatability can ensure the stability of product quality.
Improve working environment: Reduce the chance of workers being exposed to harmful substances such as cutting fluids and dust.
Reducing production costs: In the long run, automation can reduce labor costs.
6. Application examples
Linear robots can be widely used in the fields of automobile manufacturing, aerospace, electronic products, etc., and are used for automatic loading and unloading of machining centers, CNC lathes, milling machines, etc.
