Page 27 - MetalForming February 2019

Collaborative Robots Feature Simple Setup and Programming
Universal Robots highlighted its e-Series line of collaborative robots (cobots), as the UR3e, UR5e
and UR10e robot arms boast
built-in force/torque
sensing, a host of
safety features and
improved precision for rapid integration with a range of applications.
With the new built-in,
tool-centric force/torque
sensor, the e-Series can handle
cobot applications requiring force con-
trol, such as sanding, buffing, polish-
ing and deburring where force-feed-
back is paramount in order to obtain
uniform results. Additionally, the sensor
can measure mass and perform inspection processes or precisely detect contact. Increased repeatability of 30 microns in the UR3e and UR5e models and 50 microns in the UR10e makes the new cobots suitable for precise finishing, assembly and electronics tasks.
Also, redesigned intuitive and responsive touch capability expedites program development by reducing programming to a few clicks on a new lightweight, widescreen teach pendant. At the same time, advanced users can utilize the new, externally accessible 500-Hz system bus to implement more complex motion- control algorithms or profiles, such as advanced machine-vision applications.
The user interface also includes the ability to program stopping time and stopping distance for protective stops.
Universal Robots: www.universal-robots.com
Bending Machine for Large-Tube Applications
Germany-
based Schwarze-
Robitec used its
electric multiple-
radius tube-bend-
ing machine, the
CNC220ETB
MR, to demon-
strate how com-
plex tube geome-
tries, with
diameters to 8 in.,
are produced pre-
cisely and effi-
ciently. The cus-
tom machine, developed for a U.S. automotive customer, processes tube lengths to 13 ft. A vertical-height-adjustable pressure die moves to the required bending level in each individual case, allowing the requisite bending forces to be optimally gauged in order to consistently apply the optimal contact pressure to the tubes and pipes to be bent. Used in combination with individually adjustable tools, the multilevel technology integrated into the CNC 220 E TB MR allows tubes to be bent with very short lengths between bends. The machine’s control system contributes to fast cycle times by optimizing time, travel stroke and speed on all
CNC axes, reportedly reducing pro- duction times by as much as 35 per- cent. Bend-former retraction allows for the bend former and swing arm to operate separately, enabling users to produce a diverse range of tube geome- tries while adjusting and positioning them during bending. A smart remote- maintenance solution with diagnosis functions is integrated into the machine.
Schwarze-Robitec: www.schwarze-robitec.com
Magnetic Sheet and Part Handling
Magswitch offered a host of mag- net-based material-handling aids, including products for end-of-arm tool- ing, pick-and-place, body-in-white and many other applications. Combining cobots and other automation with the
company’s magnet technology makes it possible to implement magnets where they hadn’t previously been applied.
By combining automation and machine vision, the company provides solutions that allow for pick-and-place applications for sheetmetal blanks and parts. In many applications, Magswitch units can replace vacuum cups and traditional pin clamps, which impact operating costs related to energy con- sumption and downtime. Magswitch is being deployed as a platform tech- nology by major global OEMs and Tier One suppliers in Europe, Asia and North America, according to company officials.
Magswitch: www.magswitch.com.au
Fabrication: FABTECH
www.metalformingmagazine.com
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