Loading a machining centre
using Fanuc M900iB/700

The aim of the project was a fully automated loading of an AXA 5-axis machining centre with 5m of bar material and an individual weight of 300kg using an industrial robot. The company SERO Automation took on this task and chose the Fanuc robot M900iB with a payload of 700kg. A special gripper (hydraulic) with an integrated 7-axis for positioning the gripper jaws gave the loading the required flexibility for handling the rods. In addition, SERO Automation builds a suitable, fully automated bar rack with 5 drawers. Another highlight is the automated jaw change on the jaw chuck by the robot. This enables self-sufficient production over several hours with maximum flexibility.

Company: Sero Automation GmbH
Contact person: Daniel Bartholomä
www.sero-automation.de

Equipping a 5-axis machining centre

The challenge

The Fanuc M900iB/700 robot is not only characterised by what Fanuc calls "processing of ultra-heavy payloads", but also has a working area of 2832mm. This is reflected in the enormous length of the robot arm. 
This is exactly where the challenge begins with safe and trouble-free cable guidance.
The energy supply, which is already long due to the long robot arm, would become even longer without a retraction system, because if the robot arm and energy supply were the same length, they would tear due to the movements of the robot. The significantly longer energy supply compared to the robot arm would result in an impractical and visually unattractive working environment. In addition, there is an increased risk that the energy supply could get caught on objects. 
   
 

Solution

SERO Automation decided on a pneumatic retraction system (TR.RSP.70.R) for the energy supply on the robot between axes 3 - 6. The biggest advantage of this retraction system is the constant and linear retraction force over large distances, which is even steplessly adjustable thanks to a pneumatic cylinder. The adapter plate (TR.910.876) enables the retraction system to be attached without drilling, as this adapter is designed specifically for the Fanuc M900-iB700. 
A compact connection (TR.70.21.01.30) with a strain relief tiewrap plate was used to securely fix the energy chain in the area of the 6th axis. This allows the cables and energy chain to be optimally fastened. For easy attachment of the compact connection, a clamp (TR.907.667.275) was attached to axis 6 and bolted. The compact connection TR.70.21.01.30 with its 30mm clamp fits perfectly on the 30mm thick tube of the clamp. Just slide on and tighten. A 2000mm triflex® R TRE chain (TR.RSP.70.110.2000.0) runs through the RSP system, which is protected by 2 protectors (TR.70.30) against impacts or abrasion.