Caron Engineering Demonstrates New Automation System

In booth 5432 at Eastec 2021, Caron Engineering will demonstrate their new ToolConnect system, which automates the process of loading tools into the machine and prevents the wrong tool from being loaded. Using RFID tags embedded in tool holders or 2D (presetter-printed) barcode labels for data carriers, ToolConnect reads the data at the machine via scanner or RFID read station. ToolConnect processes the data, displays all tool information and then automatically updates the offsets to the correct fields in the control—no operator data-entry required.

In addition to displaying and verifying the tool information on the screen, ToolConnect guides the user through each step of the process to automate and prevent error. The user screens prompt the operator through tasks, such as (1) scan the barcode, (2) confirm the tool information, (3) open the carousel door, (4) insert the tool into the (automatically indexed) position, (5) close the door and other possible scenarios. The offsets will not be sent to the CNC control until ToolConnect has verified the correct tool is loaded into the machine and each customer-defined step in the process is successfully executed.

With ToolConnect, the system is designed to fit the users’ tool load specifications. This includes customized user screens, process flow, initial setup, system checks and access to the system. Additionally, ToolConnect has an audit log that records every step, action and data exchange, marked with date and time stamp. This data is available locally or via MTConnect and is used for quality control and process verification.