CREDIT: BLUM-NOVOTEST
Blum-Novotest will be presenting several product highlights for the automation of machining processes at the IMTS 2024 in Chicago, IL (Booth 134710 East Building). Come by the Blum booth to learn more about FormControl X measuring and automation software with integrated approach and alignment functions, LC-Vision measuring and visualization software for quick analysis and data evaluation, and twin technologies for simultaneous operation of two BLUM tool or workpiece probes with only one radio receiver. Blum will also give an IMTS conference presentation on Sept. 11th on the importance of measuring in automation with the goal to produce as many good parts as possible in the shortest possible time.
The highlight of this year’s show will be the FormControl X measuring and automation software. The software can be seen in action on a Fanuc Robodrill D21MiB5 at the BLUM booth. FormControl X an efficient solution for operations using machine-integrated quality control of workpieces in series production. The software enables automated monitoring of machining processes in line with the principle of statistical process control (SPC). The process is managed based on the recorded measured values and previously defined warning and control limits. To make sure that this also works perfectly in unmanned operation and in cooperation with robot solutions, FormControl X offers an integrated approach with its alignment function. This feature detects the current workpiece position and alignment right after clamping and automatically adjusts the reference points of the machining program to the actual position of the workpiece. This also makes reliable automated machining of parts with small allowances possible. FormControl X also prepares the recorded data in graphic form. It can then be visualised and evaluated by the user using the web browsers of any end devices. FormControl X accelerates manufacturing processes and makes them more transparent, and the quality and manufacturing costs of the finished workpieces are optimised.
Blum-Novotest will be presenting a session at the IMTS 2024 Conference called “How measuring systems greatly improve speed and accuracy in machining automation” on Wednesday September 11, 2024 at 10 a.m. CDT in room W194-A. Please join Casey Walters, National Sales Manager and Lilian Barraud who will review how precision in-process tool and workpiece measurement play an essential role in unmanned production. The combination of lasers, probes, and software enables companies to deliver accuracy, speed and communication in real time under adverse shop conditions. To ensure productivity, it is critical that the tools be monitored during unmanned production to detect tool breakage, wear or damage to the tool cutting edges. A laser system can help prevent scrap material by providing automatic corrections or by replacing the damaged tool with a sister tool. Manufacturing automation can help companies streamline their processes to produce more products, at a faster rate, and at a lower cost.
The second software solution that BLUM will present at the IMTS show is the latest version of the LC-VISION measuring and visualisation software. The application, which was developed specially for the laser measurement systems from BLUM, has been adapted even more closely to the needs of users and its usability has also been improved. For instance, the free standard scope has been expanded to include the “ToolControl” and “Stability” functions. ToolControl is an intuitive application which even users without NC programming knowledge can use to quickly and easily generate measuring sequences for the most common measuring tasks. The user can visualise measuring sequences for tool length and radius, including the tool-specific wear limits, directly on the control screen and take appropriate action. The stability function is used to determine the thermally stable spindle state for high-precision machining, to name just one example. If a machine is in the warm-up phase, the spindle elongation is measured at speed and the length value in the tool memory is updated after the thermally stable state is reached. For ambitious measuring tasks, there are also optional technology cycles available such as “ToolControl Advanced” or “SpindleControl”.
The third highlight of the show, the new TWIN technology, makes it possible to simultaneously operate two BLUM tool or workpiece probes with only one radio receiver. This technology is mainly used in dual-spindle machines, whereby a cycle time reduction of up to 50% can be achieved due to the omission of a second probing movement. The BRC technology used ensures secure transmission, and no line of sight to the receiver is required.