Robotics & Automation News

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Robots are forever: How a robot diamond cutter could change a market already disrupted by lab-grown diamonds

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About six years ago, the Scientific and Technical Research Center for Diamonds, in Antwerp, Belgium, demonstrated a highly sophisticated robotic system that can automatically cut or polish diamonds in a fraction of the time it takes the most experienced human diamond cutter to do it by hand – “10 to 20 times faster”, according to its makers.

Called the “Fenix” robot, the system is incredibly well designed and it’s no surprise that it generated a lot of interest. So much so that a company called HS Technology, based in the United States, ended up acquiring the entire organisation – it bought the Scientific and Technical Research Center for Diamonds.

Not much was heard about Fenix after that, but the latest is that HD Blueprint, a company specialising in the development of diamond cutting and polishing technologies, now owns the company and machine. [Read more…] about Robots are forever: How a robot diamond cutter could change a market already disrupted by lab-grown diamonds

Carpentry 4.0: When robots and saws take over the night shift

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Autonomous and without statutory break times, robots can offer real value to carpentry workshops and boost production. However, acquiring such machines is often associated with high costs. Used machines might offer a viable solution.

Carpentry has been a traditional craft for centuries. Yet, this trade is not exempt from digitalisation and automation through the use of robots.

The development of digitalisation in woodworking began in the mid-1970s with the introduction of the first CNC and electronically controlled machines. By the late 1990s, the first high-performance assembly lines with robotic loading had hit the market. [Read more…] about Carpentry 4.0: When robots and saws take over the night shift

How Fabrication Shops Shape Our Infrastructure

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Beneath the gleaming skylines and bustling cityscapes, an intricate network of infrastructure forms the backbone of modern society.

From the roads we traverse to the buildings that shelter us, this crucial foundation enables the seamless functioning of our daily lives.

However, the unsung heroes contributing to this vast tapestry are often overlooked – the fabrication shops whose handiwork shapes the very infrastructure we rely upon. [Read more…] about How Fabrication Shops Shape Our Infrastructure

Types of Cutting that Causes Material Damage in CNC Machining

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CNC machine operators often grapple with tool deformation and machining materials damage, posing significant challenges to the machining process. Identifying the factors behind these issues is crucial for effective prevention. Therefore, a thorough inspection of tools becomes paramount.

This article delves into the various cutting problems that contribute to tool deformation and material damage in CNC machines, shedding light on strategies to address and mitigate these challenges. [Read more…] about Types of Cutting that Causes Material Damage in CNC Machining

What is a Plasma Cutter? And Why Your Business May Need One

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A plasma cutter is a tool that uses a directed stream of hot plasma to cut through various types of conductive metals like steel, aluminum, brass, copper, and more.

Plasma cutters work by creating an electrical arc between a negatively charged electrode in the tip of the torch and the positively charged workpiece. This arc ionizes gas passing through it, creating a channel of superhot plasma that can melt and cut through metal.

Plasma cutters provide extremely clean, fast, and accurate cuts for metal fabrication and other industrial applications. Unlike abrasive cutting tools like grinders or saws, plasma cutters produce smooth edges that often require little post-processing or cleanup. [Read more…] about What is a Plasma Cutter? And Why Your Business May Need One

Ideal Spindles for High-Speed Robotic Milling of Plastics and Composites

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By Mark Fairchild

Robot arms are finding their way into a wide variety of applications because of their precision, strength, and versatility. Robotic milling systems have become more common in recent years and have several advantages over traditional machine tools for certain applications.

One application for which robot arms are well suited is using a kind of deburring tool as a cutting instrument when working with relatively soft materials like plastics and composites. [Read more…] about Ideal Spindles for High-Speed Robotic Milling of Plastics and Composites

RoboUP launches ‘the most intelligent and precise robotic lawn mower ever created’

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RoboUP has launched what it describes as “the most intelligent and precise robot lawn mower ever created” – one that delivers “the perfect lawn” with a hands-free experience.

Using cutting edge technology, AI intelligent design, and convenient app control, RoboUP revolutionizes lawn care for busy people. Now, maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn is automatic and effortless.

RoboUP is available now on Kickstarter: https://bit.ly/3XsGe0P [Read more…] about RoboUP launches ‘the most intelligent and precise robotic lawn mower ever created’

Nidec launches two new robot cameras for hobbing and broaching machines

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Nidec Machine Tool has launched two new robot cameras for hobbing and broaching machines to help automate visual inspections of cutting tools.

Robot Camera “Speed”, visual inspection equipment for cutting tools (hobbing machines) to process gears and other components, and Robot Camera “Max”, visual inspection equipment for broaching machines.

The company says the two robot cameras can reduce tooling inspection time to “less than 1/10 of its current length”. [Read more…] about Nidec launches two new robot cameras for hobbing and broaching machines

Effects of CNC Machining on Surface Roughness in Fused Deposition Modelling Products

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Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is a 3D printing technology that uses melted plastic filament to build up objects layer by layer. FDM parts are typically made from thermoplastic materials such as ABS, PLA, or PC.

Once the object is printed, it can be finished using various methods, such as sanding, painting, or machining. CNC machining is one of the most common ways to finish an FDM part.

It involves using computer-controlled cutting tools to remove material from the surface of the object until it reaches the desired shape and size. [Read more…] about Effects of CNC Machining on Surface Roughness in Fused Deposition Modelling Products

4 Ways to Reduce Laser Cutting Costs

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Many industrial companies, particularly those in the fabrication and machining sectors, require laser cutting for their projects and services.

Essentially, laser cutting refers to the process of using a laser beam to pierce the material and melt it in an exact line to ensure a clean output. It has been a popular method in the industrial setting because it produces no edge effects after cutting.

Due to its ability to cut materials with precision, manufacturers and other businesses can carry out a high volume of jobs more efficiently. However, it’s essential to know that laser cutting can be expensive.

The continuous use of laser cutting can be unsustainable for many companies and organizations. [Read more…] about 4 Ways to Reduce Laser Cutting Costs