Robotic Sheet Metal Bending Cell
A new generation of sheet metal forming automation – Maximum efficiency, uncompromising precision, and continuous operation.
CORE SOLUTION FEATURES
Automation in metal forming is nowadays an essential driver of economic profitability, offering uncompromising precision and quality in an era that demands maximum efficiency and safety. The robotic bending cell represents a fully autonomous workstation combining the precision of a CNC press brake with the flexibility of an industrial robot. This combination eliminates the human factor in monotonous and heavy-duty operations, thereby radically increasing production efficiency.
MAIN SYSTEM COMPONENTS
- CNC Press Brake: A synchronized machine with high tonnage and positioning accuracy.
- Industrial Robot: A six-axis manipulator with high reach and payload capacity, equipped with a linear track for operating long press brakes and specialized bending software.
- Gripper System: Interchangeable systems (vacuum, magnetic, or mechanical) for handling various sheet metal formats.
- Centering and Inspection Station: Ensures precise gripping of the blank prior to the bending process itself.
- Safety Zone: Fencing, light curtains, and scanners complying with ISO standards.
Flexibility for Every Shape and Surface
The right choice of gripper determines the range of parts the cell can process without human intervention. Our solution utilizes a modular system that can be tailored to specific production needs.
1. Types of Gripping Technologies
• Vacuum Suction Cups: Ideal for large, flat parts and thin metal sheets. They are surface-friendly (leaving no scratches) and allow for the handling of perforated sheets thanks to vacuum leak detection valves.
• Magnetic Grippers: Perfect for steel parts with multiple holes where suction cups would lose vacuum. They utilize permanent magnets with pneumatic release.
• Mechanical Clamps: Used for small parts or applications where extreme clamping force is required during fast movements.
2. Key Technical Features
• Quick Change Systems: The robot can autonomously detach a vacuum gripper and attach a magnetic one within seconds using an automatic coupling.
• Integrated Regripping Station: If the process requires flipping the part, the robot places it on an auxiliary table, changes its grip, and continues bending from another side.
• Part Presence Sensors: Detectors that verify whether the part was successfully gripped and ensure two sheets weren't picked up at once (double sheet detection).
INTELLIGENT FEATURES AND SOFTWARE
Modern cells do not require complex manual programming of robot movements.
• Offline Programming: Production preparation takes place in a PC simulation while the machine continues to operate.
• Automatic Tool Change: The robot autonomously reconfigures the die and punch according to the new task.
• Real-Time Angle Correction: Laser angle measurement during bending to eliminate the effects of material springback.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS
The investment in a robotic cell typically pays for itself within 18 to 36 months, depending on the shift pattern. The robotic cell is not intended solely for large-scale production. Thanks to rapid offline programming, it is highly profitable today even for batches in the tens of units.
• Scrap Reduction: Minimal waste thanks to precise simulation and sensor technology.
•Labor Cost Savings: A single operator can manage 2–3 robotic cells simultaneously (only needing to replenish blanks).
