Injection moulding automation specialist, Hi-Tech Automation, will illustrate how multi-tasking robots can be effectively and safely deployed for lean moulding operations at this year’s Interplas exhibition. Teaming up with FANUC Robotics and FANUC ROBOSHOT, Hi-Tech Automation will demonstrate two automated cells each maximising control capabilities to optimise cell efficiency.
A 150 ton FANUC ROBOSHOT moulding machine will be integrated with two robots – one robot, a side arm unit, will be deployed separately from the other, a FANUC Robotics M-10ia.  Carrying out post moulding operations, the six axes M-10ia robot will simultaneously control two additional axes of the side arm robot which will de-mould an 8 impression tool.

Utilising FANUC Robotics’ Dual Check Safety (DCS) position and speed check software this cell will use separate safety circuits.  DCS is an option of the FANUC robot’s controller that allows the arm to be restricted to specific zones, and the speed to be closely monitored, effectively safeguarding itself.   With less safety hardware required, workcells can be designed to be more compact, simpler and leaner.

In addition to the 150 ton moulder, FANUC ROBOSHOT will show its 100 ton machine which will be producing a polycarbonate pint glass demoulded and placed into to a laser marking machine by a FANUC Robotics M-20ia robot. The glass will then be...