Subsidiaries of Mitsubishi Electric, MC Machinery Systems and ASTES4, the latter of which was acquired in August 2018, recently released an upgraded LASORTING system, which goes beyond just cutting and sorting. The newest laser automation system is touted as being the first fully-integrated system for production from start to finish. Added capabilities include loading and unloading material, laser work, and storing finished parts.
“We are very excited to unveil the ASTES4 system at FABTECH,” said Shane Herendeen, North American Sales Manager-Fabrication Division. “This new automation system will change the way companies use their machines and sort their parts and is a huge step forward for our entire industry.”
Designed for plug and play installation, the LASORTING system features four cartesian grippers to load, sort and unload parts. The versatile grippers allow for vacuum or magnetic tools to be used, depending on the task, and can accommodate different shapes and sizes. The system’s software automatically detects shape and weight and adjusts accordingly.
Since different clients may have different needs, LASORTING was developed taking into account various production cell configurations and material thickness—it can handle up to .25mm thickness depending on the version of the system. Its modular design allows for a compact, complete cell where all laser, sorting and storing is done. The system also removes scrap and places it on an assigned conveyor or forklift.
Controlling all the features is the innovative ASTES4 intelligent software, which creates consistent, uninterrupted communication between the laser and sorting functions. Once it determines the thickness and layout, the data is instantly communicated so the system can determine the sorting plan.
There are currently three sizes of the new system. LASORTING Light can handle sheet metal 3015/4020mm and .5-10mm thick. LASORTING Sort can handle the same size but thickness up to 25mm. LASORTING Heavy jumps up to 6530/8030mm in size with the same thickness capabilities as the Sort.
Different floorplans are available. The company also offers to work with customers to tailor the system to specific storage needs.
For more information about the new system, visit Mitsubishi Electric’s website.