Methods Machine Tools, Inc.

Methods Automation Plus-K

The Methods Plus-K Automation System is an innovative robotic automation solution that is added to a medium bed FANUC RoboDrill that not only exchanges part carriers, but also tool holders to further enhance the functionality of the RoboDrill. The compact automation system is only 32” wide and is secured to the machine on a set of rigid brackets.

The idea of this cell is to fill up the Rotary Storage Carousel with a number of workpiece carriers and the extra tooling required for the different workpieces and let it run. Setups are reduced because the system is based on the robot loading and unloading workpiece carriers into and out of the machine. Because these quick change carriers are designed with a common feature to be used by the robot and clamped in the machine on a common clamping system, no programming for the robot is required and no setup in the machine is required.

Workpieces are secured in vises or blank pallets which are intended to be customized for the specific holding requirements. These pallets are placed in the rotary carousel along with the required tool.