Modular Automation System Integrates with Wide Variety of Technologies

GF Machining Solutions announces the System 3R Transformer, a modular automation system designed to integrate with a wide variety of existing tooling systems.

With this system, manufacturers can begin by automating a single machine and then expand to include as many as 12 machines within the cell. A Transformer cell accommodates a wide range of machining technologies and enables components from different manufacturers to be included within the same cell. End users can then create an automation cell where each individual component decision is optimized, as opposed to having choice constrained by compatibility.

For maximum flexibility, the system offers additional in-process accessories that can be integrated into a cell, including multiple loading stations that can be used without stopping production, a draining station for emptying workpiece cavities after machining processes, a washing machine to clean workpieces, and a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) for presetting and/or part inspection.

The System 3R Transformer provides cell management software whereby all production data is entered in a structured manner or imported through a data exchange interface for major enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. The software then controls every aspect of the cell, from automatically loading jobs to machines to recording and monitoring cycle times for each job. The core of the system is an efficient database that uses chip identification of the pallets to ensure that correct data is used for every part in the cell.