Open interfaces combine robotics and CNC in shop floor applications

29.08.2008

With the standardized and open interfaces of the Sinumerik 840D sl control, Siemens enables simple integration of robots into the shop floor area.

Users of machine tools can use this to convert flexibly to automatic or series production in addition to standard tasks. Thanks to automated operation in loading machines with robots, for example, machine tools can also be used in non-working shifts, improving their utilization.

The economic necessity for higher machine utilization with simultaneous flexible change between customized production and automated series production are challenges faced by suppliers in the shop floor area. With the open interfaces of the Sinumerik 840D sl machine tool control, users can easily integrate auxiliary robots and can thus flexibly switch from operator-prompted production operation to automated series production during non-working shifts. The interface of the 840D sl is standardized, can be used immediately, and allows the connection of a host of industrial robots.

Industrial robots can be used for different additional tasks including loading operations, cutting, welding, or surface machining. By using robots for loading/unloading, machines can be better utilized and also operated during non-working shifts at night or at weekends. If the robot handles other additional tasks in machining, this reduces the overall cycle time and simultaneously increases production quality. The open interfaces of the Sinumerik 840D sl can be used to connect not only automatic lathes, milling machines and grinding machines to industrial robots, but also every other machine tool. One robot can also be used for several machines. This increases utilization, reduces the ROI of a machine, and secures the competitiveness above all of medium-sized production companies.

Operator-prompted production and automated series production are both based on the operating and programming tools ShopMill and ShopTurn. With these tools, machines can easily be configured, and the workpieces can be programmed via a graphical user interface. The changeover to automated series production is carried out in just a few steps. Siemens will present the integration of industrial robots in the area of shop floor production at the AMB exposition using the example of a Motoman robot.

Volker M. Banholzer | Source: Siemens Industry Automation
Further information: www.siemens.de/sinumerik