Robot Positioning with Injection molding machines
What is the best position for the robot when working with an injection moulding machine?
The most suitable position for the robot is based on local requirements including such factors as unloading times required, space available, ceiling hight, retrofitting of existing automation solutions, safety, etc.
The decision on where to position the robot in relation to the injection moulding machine is dependent on the specific requirements of the application with regard to handling, paths, operator control, the position of the injection mould, safety, unloading with the safety gate open or closed, accessibility for maintenance, and floor space requirements.
The advantage of the new shelf mounted robots is that they can be installed on top of, alongside, or over the machine.
On Top
Shelf-mounted robots can be installed on top of the machine either on the operator side and mounted on a fixed tool clamping surface, or on the non-operator side. With both options, connections to the robot (motor cable &/or data cable) should be made from behind since the area above the injection moulding machine is not used for unloading the parts.
This solution offers the following benefits:
. Clear layout with minimum equipment around the moulding machine
. Excellent solution when space is of a premium
. Ability to unload with the safety gate closed
. Short unloading times
. Safety for operating personnel
On the Floor Alongside
With the robot position on the floor on the non-operator side of the machine, the safety enclosure of the robotic cell must meet the same technical safety specification as the injection moulding machine, since the parts are removed with the safety gate open.
This solution offers the following benefits:
. Easy accessibility for maintenance
. Able to operate with small injection moulding machines
. Easier to retrofit existing automation solutions
. Low or medium clamping force ranges only required
. Ideal for clean rooms or shops with low ceilings
Above
This alternative method of mounting the robot in an inverted position over the machine is preferable with machines subject to very strong vibrations. An ideal combination of process reliability and cycle time is thus achieved. The work envelope can be expanded significantly by means of a traversing unit.
This solution offers the following benefits:
. An extremely flexible solution
. Excellent solution when space is of a premium
. Totally resistant to vibrations
. Ability to unload with the safety gate closed
. Short unloading times
Machinery Automation & Robotics
1/101 Derby Street
Silverwater NSW 2128
Phone: (61) 2 9748 7001
http://www.machineryautomation.com.au