Robot-Tended VMC Cell Changes Multiple Workpieces Simultaneously

Available from Methods Machine Tools, the Twin RoboDrill JobShop Cell features two FANUC D21 RoboDrill vertical machining centers serviced by a single articulating FANUC LR Mate 200iD robot. Multiple parts can be loaded and unloaded simultaneously, rather than one at a time, for faster cycle times. The cell is well-suited for a low-mix, medium to high volume of parts. 

The FANUC robot enters from the side of each machine, giving operators full access to the front of the VMCs for tool changes, offsets and maintenance. The cell combines FANUC Robotics’ IR Vision System with a flex vibratory infeed system to bring parts into the call. The flex feeder conveys a group of parts into the vision camera’s field of view for inspection, selecting the “good” parts for the robot to load into the machine.

The VMCs are equipped with FANUC 31iB5 controls with FSSB high-speed processing. According to Methods, the control offers streamlined electronics to reduce the number of components. Troubleshooting and maintenance capabilities reduce downtime by enabling users to analyze systems on the RoboDrill VMCs and receive notifications if any of the drives or electronics requires adjustment.