We have automated the bending of large sheet metal blanks. An enormous KUKA robot loads the huge bending machine with up to 100 kilograms of heavy workpieces and takes care of the complete bending process, which can entail up to four steps. Workpieces that used to be laboriously managed by three operators are now processed by the robot completely automatically using practically no manpower.
The huge robot loads an LVD bending machine completely automatically. This then bends the workpieces over a bending length of 4,000 mm with a force of 2,150 kN and embosses them using various tools. The stainless-steel sheets are 2,200 x 1,500 mm in size and weigh 27 kg, and are later used to manufacture baking chamber sheathing for bakery ovens. The robot is controlled by a linear guidance system over a six metre long axis and can move to various loading and unloading stations. The large blanks are picked up by suction cups at precisely defined points. The handled workpieces can weigh up to 100 kg. Added to which, the “muscle-bound” robots have to lift both an extension and the tool mounting fixture.
