To learn more about FANUC America’s CNCs, robots or ROBODRILLS, please visit http://www.fanucamerica.com
In case you missed IMTS 2014, here’s a brief video overview of FANUC America's new automation technology introduced at the show (video courtesy of GIE Media):
FANUC’s 0i-F CNC is the newest generation of the Series 0i. It features seamless integration with the FANUC Series 30i controls along with other new features based on FANUC’s new platform also introduced at IMTS. The Series 0i-F CNC is capable of 11 controlled axis and 2 spindles with the addition of a loader control board that can be used for ancillary functions.
FANUC’s new CNC platform has the ability to do large program management on the CNC. Additionally, the new platform includes the ability to have up to 16 GB of program storage on the CNC which is a large advancement from the 8 MB previously available. With 16 GB now available, you can run large programs without the need of a data server feeding off of the network. FANUC’s new platform also includes many features designed to improve ease of use, for example the ability to add Bluetooth connectivity to the CNC which can be used for program transfer from a tablet type device to the CNC. Additionally, Bluetooth keyboard and mouse capability have been added, allowing for easier input of data to the control system. FANUC’s new platform also includes the ability to view remote desktop on a PC; the CNC has the capability to display PC screens directly on the CNC. This enables the user to run PC programs on the CNC without adding a PC to the CNC system. Removing the PC from the system improves the reliability of the overall CNC, but still gives users the ability to run the PC programs that are required on the shop floor.
The video also features the tight integration between a FANUC robot and FANUC ROBODRILL using the latest FANUC CNC technology. In the demonstration featuring progressive robotic machining from a gantry, FANUC utilizes new Servo Door technology to integrate a FANUC servo motor into the doors of the three ROBODRILL machines to reduce cycle time and increase throughput. This system also uses FANUC's vision technology integrated between the gantry-style robot and the conveyors so there is no need for fixtures between the conveyors and robot. This enables the robot to pick up parts without any sort of fixturing between the loading and unloading of machines. Through this tight integration between the robot, CNC and ROBODRILL, FANUC is able to coordinate communication and increase throughput and cycle time for the entire operation.