Automatica 2018: Automated workpiece handling on machine tools

The WH Construction Kit, a modular product toolbox for workpiece handling from DMG MORI HEITEC, makes it possible to automate turning and milling machines  cost-effectively. That lengthens machine run times, cuts costs per unit, and gives companies a competitive edge.

Automation and digitalization are key technologies for the machining of the future. Cost-effective automation is the answer to rising wage costs of labor, resource bottlenecks, short delivery times, and the trend to smaller batch sizes. To address this situation, last year machine tool builder DMG Mori and automation specialist Heitec founded a joint venture, DMG MORI HEITEC, in which both companies have pooled their automation and digitalization skills. DMG MORI HEITEC has now developed the WH Construction Kit, a modular product tool box for workpiece handling, to be used for the automation of turning and milling machines. "The system offers enough flexibility to incorporate all customer needs, like different workpiece dimensions and weights, or to integrate additional processes like cleaning or deburring," says Kai Lenfert, one of the joint venture’s two managing directors.

The planning, engineering and commissioning processes for these automation solutions are supported with software-based virtual models of machines, plants, robot applications and material flows. These are founded on the long-standing expertise of Heitec, a company well known as one of the technology leaders in the field. The core is the virtual machine, as a companion for the real plant. Using the CAD data from products to be produced, or new products, it can be used to develop, plan and commission the machine’s automation in advance. The right virtual models make it possible to detect defects in planning, design and software early, and can cut project completion times by about 20 percent and on-site commissioning times by up to 80 percent.

PR-Automatica-2018-DMG_MORI-Heitec-EN.zip

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