CSM – Smart Manufacturing Training System

thumbnail

Overview:

The Connected Smart Manufacturing (CSM) system is an intelligent manufacturing solution incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies, such as advanced robotics, CNC machining, and PLC programming. It serves as a comprehensive training tool for students in Robotics, CNC Machining, and PLC Programming.

CSM Features:

  • FANUC LR Mate 200iD/7L robotic machine tender for CNC loading and unloading.
  • Automated manufacturing work holder for CNC machining center.
  • Vision inspection for machining operations and laser etching.
  • Advanced PLC to robot control with Rockwell Logix 5000 series PLC programming.
  • HMI PanelView interface touch screens for user interaction.
  • Fenceless robot cells with safety area scan.
  • Smart sensor technology using Balluff I/O Link with diagnostics.
  • Project-based mechatronics at each operation.
  • Dual-purpose EOAT on robots with vacuum and mechanical gripping.
  • Conveyors with VFD variable speed drives.
  • RFID manufacturing process tracking.
  • Modular robot work cells that can be used independently.

Manufacturing Process:

  • The system features a four-robot manufacturing cell working alongside a CNC Mill and an APT MTEC machine tender CERT cart.
  • Three APT LR Mate CERT cart bases, modified for specific tasks, collaborate in the manufacturing process.

Educational Focus:

  • Ideal for teaching Robotics, CNC Machining, and PLC Programming.
  • Students will machine an anodized aluminum block into a customized dice holder using a 3-axis CNC vertical machining center.
  • The APT MTEC CERT cart will function as a robot machine tender, handling tasks like inspection, cleaning, and laser engraving.

Customization and Creativity:

  • During laser engraving, students can customize the product with school logos, names, or creative images.
  • Vision technology enables the robot to identify and pick up numbered dice in various orders, fostering creativity.

Integration and Collaboration:

  • Each station in the manufacturing cell has its own PLC, HMI, robot, and learning station.
  • The complete line demonstrates real manufacturing collaboration among different programmers and employees.

Autonomous Operation:

  • Fully autonomous operation using Fanuc intelligent robotics with vision, Rockwell PLCs, Smart sensor IO-Link technology, and RFID process tracking.
  • The cell performs all material handling and manufacturing tasks without human interaction.

Workstations (OPs):

  • Workstations are modular robot stations (OPs) with specific project objectives and ancillary devices.
  • Controlled from a PLC control panel attached to the robot cart, communication occurs via Ethernet IP for a completely integrated system.

Production Control:

  • The cell master control interface sets production operation schedules, including laser etching, batch count, and packaging quantity.
  • Blank parts loaded into the system initiate an autonomous operation to create the promotional item.

Packaging:

  • The completed kits are packaged in logo-printed boxes with a choice of colors, presenting a polished final product.

This innovative CSM system provides a hands-on, industry-relevant learning experience, encompassing the latest technologies in connected smart manufacturing.

For more information, take a look at this demo video.

Get a Quote