CNC MACHINE TENDING
COBOTS IN CNC MACHINING
Production quality and efficiency are more important than ever, with increasingly slim margins and worker shortages rearing their heads. Deadlines and quality remain non-negotiable — with the competitive advantage going to the supplier that can deliver premium quality, ahead of schedule, at the most favorable cost.
CNC machine robot automation keeps cnc machines running consistently 24/7 ‘lights out’. With no breaks, downtime, or sick time, cobots load and unload parts into your machines, keeping the spindle turning while you are away. OB7 cobots make it faster and easier than ever to automate your machines, increasing throughput and optimizing quality and efficiency.
OB7 is a game-changing cobot CNC solution, integrating seamlessly with your existing CNC machinery to automate machine tending — among the most repetitive, dirty, and dull tasks, freeing workers to accomplish higher-value tasks such as quality inspection or setting up new jobs. OB7 handles tasks such as:
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Opening and closing the machine door
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Loading and unloading blanks or parts
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Staging material for processing or inspection
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Recording pertinent data
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Deburring, polishing, grinding
OB7 advantages over other CNC machine tending robot solutions:
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7-axis movement instead of the more common 6-axis, providing unparalleled freedom of movement
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“No-programming” operation, where the robot “learns” a task when the operator shows the robot what to do by simply moving it into position, rather than programming it
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A small, versatile footprint with wheels to facilitate easy movement between numerous machines and processes throughout the facility
THE BENEFITS OF CNC INTEGRATION
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Lights Out Production: OB7 CNC machine robot arm is a cost-effective and easy-to-set-up solution that provides the fastest ROI of any other cobot on the market. By ensuring that spindles are always turning, gain the benefits of 24/7 operation with no breaks, absences, production stoppages, and lower operation costs.
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Fast Return on Investment: OB7 allows for fast, simple setup and ease of operation. Setting up OB7 and connecting it to your machine takes less than a day. By eliminating downtime, discover an immediate ROI. With Productive Robotics financing, you can see an ROI in as little as one week.
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“No-programming” operation: Unlike other cobot automation solutions, OB7 does not need to be programmed. Teaching it a task requires simply “showing” it what to do. Operation setup is done with a few simple button presses in an intuitive, familiar, graphics-based, tablet-like control interface.
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7-axis movement: While most cobots offer 6-axis movement, OB7 features a seventh degree of freedom. The 7 joints of OB7 give the robotic arm the ability to reach around the machine door without blocking access, which is impossible with a 6 axis robot. It facilitates true, full, human-like control and movement across a wide range of space.
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Mobility and flexibility: In addition to the reach and range of OB7, its small footprint and portability allow for seamless integration and movement between different machines. The various OB7 models offer a workpiece payload of 4-12kg (8.8-26 lbs) and a reach of 1000-1700mm (3.2-5.5 ft). This versatility contributes to OB7’s suitability for the full scope of production volumes and mix types.
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CNC machine compatibility: OB7 is designed for easy setup and integration with the widest possible range of CNC equipment including Machining Centers, Turning Centers, and other machines. With no wiring required into your machine simply roll OB7 cobot into place, “teach” it what to do, and gain the benefits of 'lights out' automation instantly.
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Robot safety: Unlike traditional, bulky, dangerous automation robots that require strict safety regimens, OB7 works directly alongside your employees — no safety fences or cages required. OB7 is fully compliant with ISP 10218-1 and works in harmony with human operators within close proximity.
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Suitability for all volumes and mix types: The intuitive integration and versatility of OB7 means that it is as well-suited for low-volume, high-mix applications as it is for long production runs. Even in volumes as low as 10 pieces, OB7 can deliver material efficiency benefits by automating machine tending tasks and facilitating third-shift, lights-out operations.
START AUTOMATING NOW
We understand that there are many factors involved in introducing or increasing automation in your facility. Our team at Productive Robotics is here to help answer any questions about automating your production cell. We can also assist you in evaluating your automation job.
With fast setup, simple operation, and rapid ROI — all within a cost-effective package — OB7 is the ultimate cobot solution that is ready to start working and making a difference in your operations.
OB7 offers seamless integration into production lines and work cells to perform multiple actions of different machines. OB7 allows for automation in all areas of the manufacturing process, including precision robot machining tasks as well as other production tasks.
To learn more and discuss how OB7 can help you, contact Productive Robotics today.