Metal Machining Machine Tending for Three WIA MCTs using Yaskawa Robots

Industry > Metal·PlasticsApplication > Machine TendingSector > Manufacturing

This machine tending automation solution utilizes a YASKAWA industrial robot to automate the loading and unloading of metal workpieces for three WIA MCT (F410D) units.

In the traditional process, operators had to stand by the machines constantly to manually feed workpieces. By delegating the loading and unloading tasks to the robot, operators can now focus on overall equipment management and system operation, significantly increasing operational efficiency.

Furthermore, by having a single robot service three machining centers, productivity is maximized across the entire production cell.

Components

Robot	Robot: YASKAWA GP12 6-axis articulated industrial robot. Payload: 12kg Reach: 1,440mm Weight: 150kg Repeatability: ±0.08mm

Workflow

STEP 1.	Picking: The robot picks up two workpieces from the input conveyor.
STEP 2.	Alignment: The workpieces are placed on a jig for re-alignment to ensure precision.
STEP 3.	Cleaning: The robot performs an air-blow on the machining jig inside the CNC machine to remove debris.
STEP 4.	Loading: The workpieces are loaded, and the machining cycle begins.
STEP 5.	Multi-tending: During the machining cycle, the robot moves to service the other machines.
STEP 6.	Pre-extraction Cleaning: Once machining is complete, the robot performs an air-blow on the finished parts before picking.
STEP 7.	Unloading: The robot picks up the two finished workpieces.
STEP 8.	Secondary Cleaning: The finished parts undergo a second air-blow at a dedicated cleaning station.
STEP 9.	Discharge: The completed workpieces are unloaded onto the discharge conveyor.

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Features

Improved Productivity and Operational Efficiency

Minimized Cycle Time: Utilizes high-speed, high-precision industrial robots to optimize throughput.

1-to-3 Multi-Tending: A single robot services three CNC machines, synchronizing with machining cycles to minimize idle time.

Continuous Production: Integration of input/output conveyors minimizes management touchpoints and enables seamless, non-stop operation.

Custom Design and Pre-Verification

Optimized Tooling: Custom end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) is designed and manufactured based on specific work conditions and performance requirements.

Simulation-Based Validation: Pre-production interference checks and performance benchmarks are conducted via 3D simulation to ensure flawless field integration.

Results

ROI Period	24 months
Key Benefits	Minimization of labor required for machine loading/unloading. Increased productivity by eliminating idle standby time during machining cycles.
Client Feedback	We successfully boosted productivity by minimizing the workforce required for the process and drastically reducing equipment idle time.