At Fakuma 2024, ENGEL will present innovative solutions shaping the future of plastics processing. A key highlight is the digital set-up assistant, designed to simplify the operation of injection moulding machines and significantly enhance production efficiency.
ENGEL’s set-up assistant directly addresses the growing shortage of skilled labour by greatly reducing the complexity of tool changes. The system automatically recognises the installed tool and guides the operator through the entire changeover process step-by-step. This not only minimises the risk of errors but also reduces set-up times by up to 50%, leading to a marked increase in productivity.
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Key features and benefits of the set-up assistant include:
• Interactive SMED process support: The set-up assistant speeds up the tool change process through interactive instructions and automated sequences.
• Automatic purge program: An automated start after the end of production and the positioning of the unit enable faster colour changes, for example.
• Automatic tool clamping: Quick-clamping systems and standardised media couplings further enhance efficiency.
• Preheating station: Tools are preheated and tempered, reducing set-up times even further.
• Work instructions in the dataset: Detailed instructions, both in text and images, guide the operator precisely through the entire process.
• Automatic tool recognition: RFID transponders store operating hours and shot counters, enhancing operator support and protecting the machine.
At Fakuma 2024, ENGEL will demonstrate how digital assistance systems can help solve the current challenges in plastics processing. Visitors are invited to experience these technologies live, which simplify day-to-day operations and discover their potential for their own production environments.
