Festo, in conjunction with machine builder IFC Intelligent Feeding Components, has made production process variability and short setup times possible for Tyco Electronics. The Festo Tripod robot has made it possible to recalibrate work piece types instantaneously at the press of a button.
The Tripod robot manages production with an IFC flexfeeder system, which feeds components through the production process. This simple integration, including the resulting new possibilities for instant process variability, is a practical example of the company’s expertise in process automation and integration.
Festo developed a simple control system for the robot, which allows easy parameterisation and configuration of new variants that are programmed using the teach-in function. The system requires data input for positions, sequences, and settings only, and these can be entered via the front-end display. The inputs can be stored and recalled at will to initiate a different process sequence.
Incorporating the Tripod robot into assembly lines reduces setup and programming time, allowing for the production of many variables within a product range. This increases overall output and saves money. The resulting work piece variability eliminates the need for additional feeders, which can sometimes cost more than an entire IFC flexfeeder solution.
Festo’s SBO.-Q vision system can also be integrated into the feed system. This intelligent camera can visually orientate work pieces and, depending on their position, either accept or discard them. The Tripod features a low moving mass, dynamic handling, and a pyramid-shaped design, which makes it very rigid. The Tripod is more accessible in the working area and, since it is made of standard Festo modular components, installation is simple.
In practice, a flexible feed system with an integrated Festo Tripod robot can produce, for example, 500 units of one type. Then, with minimal adjustment and the shortest possible downtime, 500 units of another type can be produced.
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