Methods Expands VMC Automation with Revised JobShop Cell Pro

Methods Machine Tools Inc. has introduced the JobShop Cell Pro, a new standard automation solution featuring the RoboDrill D21SiBadv Vertical Machining Center Series. The JobShop Cell Pro incorporates a main enclosure with several different pre-engineered end-of-arm and infeed/outfeed options for a range of part and capacity requirements.

"Building on nearly 15 years of experience with the widely popular JobShop Cell, we are pleased to provide a reimagined standard Pro version which accommodates multiple infeed and outfeed options for high-mix, medium-volume machining applications," says John Lucier, FANUC automation manager at Methods Machine Tools Inc. "Having an in-stock automation solution featuring exceptional, proven technology saves cost and speeds delivery to our customers."

JobShop Cell Pro features an industrial-grade, articulating FANUC six-axis robot in a versatile aluminum enclosure which allows RoboDrill placement on the left or right side, or in a twin cell with two machines. In the twin cell, two side-by-side RoboDrill machines with a FANUC robot entering from the side of each machine gives operators full, open access to the front of the RoboDrills for tool changes, off-sets and maintenance. Removable panels on the common enclosure allow for several different infeed and outfeed options including conveyors, drawers, Lazy Susan-style pallet systems and interfaces for vibratory and other bulk-feeding solutions.

The system’s RoboDrill D21SiBadv offers multi-axis simultaneous machining with a 10,000- or 24,000-rpm BBT-30 spindle. Customers may choose from a three-, four- or five-axis RoboDrill and an array of standard hydraulic or pneumatic workholding options. Methods Machine Tools says the RoboDrill features 1.3-second chip-to-chip tool change and acceleration/deceleration at 1.5 times G force. A FANUC 31i-B5 Nano CNC controller supports FSSB high-speed processing.