In most application fields such as welding, transportation, palletizing and assembly, industrial robots are used as hosts. Different from this, the robot matching with the machine tool is generally used as an auxiliary machine to play a role. At present, the specific application forms are as follows:
(1) Single machine loading and unloading
Single machine loading and unloading is the most typical and mature application of robot in machine tool. It is more accurate, rapid and safe to install by machine than by manual loading and unloading. For small and medium-sized parts with large batch production and short processing time, or heavy workpieces that need to be lifted, the advantages of robot loading and unloading are particularly obvious.
The structural relationship between robot and machine tool can be divided into two forms: robot installed outside machine tool and robot integrated with machine tool. Robots installed outside the machine tool can be divided into fixed, mobile and rack type.
(2) Robot and machine tool constitute flexible production line
The robot is responsible for the process conversion of the workpiece, and forms a flexible production line with several machine tools. The robot gripper is a more complex and valuable application than single machine loading and unloading. In the process of industrial transformation and upgrading, the market demand is more and more vigorous.
In this case, the layout of the machine tool depends on the process route and site conditions. There are L-type, U-type, linear type, opposite layout and other forms, in which three CNC machine tools constitute a U-type layout, and a robot transforms the workpiece in the middle of the field, which is very compact.
(3) Work together with machine tools to complete the processing process
It is not only a simple loading and unloading, but also a replacement of all the original manual operations. This is more accurate and faster than manual operation, so as to improve product quality and production efficiency. In particular, it completely solved the hidden danger of industrial injury of stamping machine tools.
(4) Finish the process independently
Equipped with a special claw, the robot can complete the cutting, grinding, polishing, cleaning and other processes. Even the robot can directly clamp the cutting tool to punch, tap and rivet the workpiece, and it can also cut. In this case, the robot itself is a machine tool.
The robot with vision and touch can be used in assembly, parts sorting and other complex processes, even if it is loading and unloading, it can also be used without the special position apparatus with positioning device.
The robot is equipped with special claws, which can be used for casting and forging machinery in high temperature environment to complete the work that is difficult to be directly completed by manual work, such as hot metal extraction, pouring, hot blank up and down, hot mold replacement, etc.
Industrial robot is a kind of general automation device with high flexibility. Its application and function have unlimited expansion space. In the integrated application with machine tools, the specific application forms of industrial robots are constantly explored and innovated.