Automation at IMTS: PLCs, Robotic Machine Tending Cells and More

AC500-3.0 Universal Controller from Automator America


Automator America will be showcasing the release of the AC500-3.0 Universal Controller for their line of pneumatic, electric and scribe marking systems at IMTS 2016.

The 3.0 release increases the flash memory, changes to an even faster/cooler processor and includes software enhancements requested by the market.

This new release also extends the list of competitors marking heads that can be operated by the controller.  Automator America has also expanded their abilities to operate and communicate with outside equipment including control of any smart motor. 

Programming upgrades allow for deeper marks through multiple dot repetition. Standard programming allows you to mark alpha/numeric, symbols, logos and bar codes through the user-friendly touch screen. Connectivity with the controller through Ethernet and RS232 is enhanced including options for Explicit and Implicit EtherNET/IP.

Weighing in at 1.46 kg (3.22 lbs.) this controller has a fireproof and dust resistant resin enclosure and includes fan vents for better air circulation. This new light weight controller has been approved by SABIC and is designed to ensure reliability in high stress working conditions.

Automator America can be found at IMTS 2016 in booth N-6137.

Visit www.automator.com to learn more.

VersaCELL Robotic Machine Tending Cell from Versatech


Versatech, LLC in Effingham, IL is now offering the VersaCELL Robotic Machine Tending Cell to help machine shops, job shops and manufacturing facilities mitigate the workforce skills gap! 

This automation solution uses robotic technology to perform machine loading and tending functions, reducing manpower requirements for a two machine production center by as much as 66 percent, eliminating the need to man each CNC lathe, grinding operation or machining center with multiple operators. 

After the VersaCELL is installed, an operator is only needed to load and unload parts from the conveyor, the entire cell doesn’t even require a dedicated operator!

The operator simply loads parts onto the included conveyor or drawer system.  VersaCELL then performs the following operations for up to two machine tools:

  • Unloading parts from conveyor or drawer system
  • Loading parts into the machine tool using customizable end of arm tooling
  • Unloading parts when machining operation is complete
  • Transferring parts to second operation for additional machining, if applicable
  • Stacking finished parts in drawer or on conveyor to return to operator

The same operator simply performs initial loading and final unloading, with the VersaCELL system doing the rest of the work.  In addition, if the drawer system is used, multiple parts can be staged for machining, allowing the operator to complete other tasks while the VersaCELL is working!

The VersaCELL Modular Robotic Machine Tending Cell is designed to be easy to set up and install to quickly meet your small to large volume production needs.

While the base package can meet your immediate needs for manpower reduction, you can also customize the VersaCELL to increase functionality and productivity.

Versatech’s VersaCELL Modular Robotic Machine Tending Cell can be found at Booth N-6297 at IMTS 2016.

For more information, visit www.versatech1.com.

FLEX Automation Systems from Yamazen and Nachi Robotic Systems


The New FLEX-S and Flex-M, developed by Yamazen Inc. and Nachi Robotic Systems, Inc., provides Brother’s customers the advantage to increase their production, efficiency and profitability by implementing robotic capability to the compact machining center, SPEEDIO.

The robotic system, FLEX-S, is interchangeable with the Brother SPEEDIO S300X1, S500X1 and the S700X1. The FLEX-M is available for the M140X1 model.

Customers with Brother SPEEDIO machines will appreciate the benefits that the FLEX Robotic arm can offer such as: longer unattended production runs, flexible handling of in-feed and completed parts, plug and play integration to Brother SPEEDIO Machines, and a robot with single & multiple ID/OD gripper configurations.

Standard dimensions of the FLEX-S are 46.25” X 30” X 82” and 67” X 30” X 87” for the FLEX-M.

There are three configurations to choose from for operation; the standard option is 2-drawer front, a two 2-drawer/ front and back is available for the FLEX-M only, and a stacked conveyor option. Other customized configurations are also available for bowl feeders of various sizes, magazine feeders, over/under conveyor and stacker parts accumulator.

The FLEX Robotic arm includes an integrated robot safety enclosure with interlocked access door and structural frame connectors to Brother’s SPEEDIO CNC machines. Also included with FLEX is a CFD Control with Nachi Smart Color Teach Pendant and integrated PLC for seamless control and flexibility. An extensive list of functional robotic software, standard integrated collision detection software with easy to use programming language and load/unload standard sequences is also provided with on-site and off-site training.

Yamazen can be found at IMTS in booth S-8640. To learn more visit www.yamazen.com.