Sensitive grinding for large surfaces
For the machining of large surfaces, there is now an industrial-grade robotic grinding solution whose contact pressure adapts sensitively to the specific nature of the surface.
The grinding of large surfaces such as locomotives, railroad cars, buses, and airplanes is often done manually, even though automation already controls large parts of the production chain. Similarly, the polishing of surfaces without structure, such as high-quality painted vehicle bodies, is one of the activities that is done by hand. Human sensitivity in maintaining an ideal and uniform contact pressure or in flexibly compensating for manufacturing and positional tolerances cannot yet be replaced by machines - especially in the case of complex geometries.
However, the time-consuming manual work has numerous disadvantages. The high labor input and abrasive consumption, long processing times and, last but not least, the physically stressful activity of the workers result in low productivity, but also in uneven results at the same time.
It is precisely for this case that FerRobotics has developed the AOK system package. It consists of Active Compliant Technology (ACT), a combination of actuator & sensor, innovative drive concepts and fine-tuned high-speed control, as well as an eccentric grinder optimized for robot use.
The ACT equips the robot with the "feel" necessary for grinding tasks. The ideal contact force is always applied, while at the same time tolerances are compensated and even complex shapes can be machined without any problems.
This integrated complete solution automates the industrial grinding process with individual control of all process parameters: Rotation speed, contact force and feed rate. The system design is compact and lightweight. The heavy-duty sanding unit is designed for industrial use and delivers twice the power of commercially available units, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For the special application of large surfaces, FerRobotics has thus developed a suitable end-of-arm tool for robots in the form of the AOK/601 triple grinding head. The elimination of manual work steps results in significantly shorter cycle times at lower costs.
► FerRobotics
► www.ferrobotics.com