Sumo Processing System Offers Big Benefits Thanks To Yaskawa Motoman GP7 Robot
A new robotic handling system has proved to be very successful on an automatic grinding machine for a major German pump manufacturer who specialise in supplying customised pumps for automotive engineering applications. At the heart of the automated system is a MOTOMAN GP7 one of the most successful robots developed by Motion control and robotics specialists YASKAWA. The GP7 is an extremely agile and compact universal robot with a 7kg payload, up to 927mm reach and outstanding repeatability of +/- 0.01mm.
Scherzinger Pumpen were looking for a suitable automation solutions partner to help them achieve their aim of gradually increasing the level of automation in their production processes.
Component handling is performed by the compact, 6-axis jointed-arm MOTOMAN GP7 robot which is attached to the system, delivering a fast travel speed and high accuracy to ensure rapid, reliable and accurate part changes in the processing machine. The system incorporates an innovative side-shifting device which allows the entire unit to be shifted on its side in seconds, giving full access to the grinder.
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Workpieces are loaded and clamped into the machine with typical machining times achieved between 3 and 5 minutes. The components are then stacked on universal pallets which are adapted for the respective workpieces by means of component-specific plastic clips.
The robot is equipped with a double gripper tool which has jaws specifically designed for the workpiece portfolio to ensure the maximum number of shafts can be loaded onto the pallets.
The ultra-compact design of the GP7 robot enables it to be positioned closer to machines and fixtures – helping to save valuable floor space.
In addition to their ability of handling heavier loads, these new models also offer the benefits associated with MOTOMAN robots, such as optimum productivity with high payloads and speeds.
