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.