Acieta launches mobile collaborative robotic work cell
Now is an especially challenging time for machine shops facing capacity shortfalls and labor shortages. To address these struggles, Acieta has launched what it says is its “simplest to use, most flexible cobot solution ever” – the FastLoad CX1000 collaborative expandable robotic cell.
To prevent shop equipment from sitting idle, the FastLoad CX1000 is mounted on a mobile platform that one worker can move easily so it can be quickly set up at different machines around the shop.
The system is equipped with a Fanuc 10KG, 120 V collaborative robotic arm to master material handling tasks. It can be outfitted with up to three modular carts to handle a wide variety of parts or allow more parts in the queue.
Jake Corning, product manager at Acieta, says: “The FastLoad CX1000 is pre-engineered to meet the most common machine tooling needs so it’s ready for delivery and installation within one week.
“With the benefits of higher throughput and lower operating costs, users see a return on investment in 18 to 24 months.”
An intuitive touch screen interface makes programming very simple. Setup takes hours, not days. The FastLoad CX1000 has a small footprint and doesn’t require safety fencing, so it takes up approximately 80 percent less floor space than a traditional robotic cell.
Operators work beside the FastLoad CX1000 to load and unload parts while the robot works continuously on up to two machines, thus doubling throughput. Force sensors stop the robot when pressure is applied, ensuring a safer application for the operator.
Corning says: “Giving the dull and repetitive tasks to robots allows employers to reallocate skilled workers into more challenging and valuable jobs such as quality control and parts design.”