Robotic Machine Tending Cell for Machine Shops, Job Shops

In Booth N-6297, Versatech, LLC (Effingham, IL) will offer their VersaCELL Robotic Machine Tending Cell to help machine shops, job shops and manufacturing facilities mitigate the workforce skills gap. This innovative automation solution uses robotic technology to perform machine loading and tending functions, reducing manpower requirements for a two-machine production center by as much as 66 percent. No more manning of each CNC lathe, grinding operation or machining center with multiple operators. After the VersaCELL is installed, an operator is only needed to load and unload parts from the conveyor. In fact, this robotic cell does not require a dedicated operator, only one to simply load parts onto the included conveyor or drawer system.

After loading, VersaCELL then performs the following operations for up to two machine tools:

• Unloading parts from conveyor or drawer system
• Loading parts into the machine tool using customizable end-of-arm tooling
• Unloading parts when machining operation is complete
• Transferring parts to second operation for additional machining, if applicable
• Stacking finished parts in drawer or on conveyor to return to operator

The same operator simply performs initial loading and final unloading, with the VersaCELL system doing the rest of the work. If the drawer system is used, multiple parts can be staged for machining to allow the operator to complete other tasks while the VersaCELL is working. This cell is easy to set up and install to quickly meet a shop’s small to large volume production needs. The VersaCELL base package includes the following components:

• Robot base (12 kg to 24 kg payload)
• Choose between Motoman or Fanuc robots
• Robot is mounted on linear bearing rails to allow the robot to be moved for manual loading
• Conveyor or Drawer System
• Lightweight, aluminum extrusion construction with wire mesh guarding for safety
• End-of-arm tooling with either single or dual grippers

While the base package can meet a shop’s immediate needs for manpower reduction, the cell can also be customized to increase functionality and productivity by adding any of the following options:

• Robotic vision system
• Interfacing for second machine tool
• Additional robot and drawer tooling
• Quick change robot tooling
• Re-grip station
• Dual infeed systems
• Touch screen HMI
• Customized workcells

The VersaCELL is an affordable automated solution for a wide range of parts and equipment, including mid-size CNC lathes, machining centers and grinding operations. It is ideal for shops looking for a simple, flexible answer to manpower shortages, inefficient processes and capacity constraints.

Versatech, LLC, 1609 W. Wernsing Avenue, Effingham, IL 62401, 618-977-8570, www.versatech1.com.