HERMLE expands automation portfolio

With the transfer of the robot system RS 1 to the GEN2 platform, Maschinenfabrik Berthold HERMLE AG is consistently expanding its automation portfolio. Following the RS 2, the compact RS 1 has now also been brought up to the latest technical standards.

The system is designed specifically for users involved in high-variety manufacturing who face increasing demands in terms of unattended operating times, flexibility and process reliability.

Combined cell for pallet and workpiece automation

The RS 1 GEN2 is designed as an integrated automation cell for handling pallets, workpiece carriers and individual parts. The focus is on flexible use across a range of manufacturing scenarios – from single-part production through to small and medium-sized production runs.

A defining feature is the combination of:

• automated pallet handling
• integrated parts handling
• setup during production

High system availability is achieved through automatic gripper and clamping device changes, as well as the ability to implement different machining strategies in parallel.

Scalable system architecture

A key feature of the RS 1 GEN2 is its modular and scalable architecture. The system can:

• be operated with one or two machines
• be upgraded at a later date from single-machine to dual-machine operation
• be supplemented with additional peripherals such as rack modules, measuring machines, washing equipment or AGV systems

It can be connected to various HERMLE machining centres, enabling flexible cell configurations to be implemented.

Compact design with excellent accessibility

With a footprint of approx. 12 m² (4.25 x 3.00 m), the RS 1 GEN2 is one of the most compact solutions in its class. Despite the small footprint, access to the working areas of the machine remains completely unobstructed – in both single-machine and dual-machine operation.

The almost entirely glazed safety enclosure improves visibility of the process while also supporting the safety concept during manual interventions.

Centralised handling system with a high load capacity

At the heart of the system is a centrally positioned 6-axis robot which has a maximum load capacity of 60 kg. Thanks to its positioning on the system platform, it reaches all the relevant stations:

• Machine working areas (up to two)
• Rack modules
• Setup stations
• Transfer stations

This enables short travel distances, high dynamics and stable cycle times.

Smart rack system with dynamic assignment

The rack system is based on a software-supported, adaptive storage strategy. Workpieces and pallets are sorted automatically and in a space-optimised manner without any fixed assignment (“chaotic storage”).

The advantages:

• maximum use of the available storage space
• reduced setup times
• no manual rack configuration

The number of available rack modules is adapted to the specific system configuration.

Integrated measurement technology for reliable loading

The setup station system is fitted with a laser monitoring system which checks the height and width of workpieces before they are stored. This ensures that only validated components enter the automated material flow.

At the same time, the control identifies available storage capacity and, for every active transport operation, checks whether there might be a more suitable storage location.

For more information visit: hermle.de

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