Preparing the published article.
Machine Tending Automation
Machine tending is repetitive, hazardous and usually a good first cell.
What the cell has to handle
| Element | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Part presentation | Trays, bins, conveyors or magazines |
| Machine interface | Door signals, chucks, fixtures and interlocks |
| Cycle matching | Robot time hidden behind machine time |
| Chip and coolant | Protection for the robot and tooling |
| Changeover | How quickly a new part is introduced |
Where designs fail
- Robot waits for the machine because the interface was not thought through.
- Bin picking is assumed to be reliable without testing part entanglement.
- No plan for regrinding, scrap or rejected parts.
Confirm machine guarding and interlock requirements with the machine builder and the site safety team.