Automation and Control, Robotics

closing process precisely on passing the mold protection sensor. This avoids the delays which result from the traditional timing of the release only after the sensor has been passed. To counteract the risk of losing the molded part in this highly optimized demolding process, SmartRemoval OUT is closely linked to the iVac system included as standard. iVac from WITTMANN offers the advantage that the molded part can already be gripped with a fraction of the necessary vacuum pressure, and thus the removal sequence can be started. In the course of the retraction movement, the vacuum pressure rises to the maximum level. Once the set reference pressure for the molded part has been reached, the signal for the release of the “close mold” command is given. This release can already take place several tenths of a second before the part leaves the mold area. In this way, signal delays at the interface between the robot and the injection molding machine are compensated, and the mold open time is minimized. The combination of SmartRemoval with iVac optimizes the mold open time regardless of the type of robot interface (Integration, E67, E12). Compared to applications without such a functionality, the time savings potential lies at about 30%. For all WITTMANN servo robots equipped with the control system versions R8 and R9, the functions described above are available as standard. “We believe that the removal time is the most important criterion for measuring the performance of a robot system. Consequently we already created the strong duo of SmartRemoval and iVac several years ago in order to act with maximum efficiency at this point”, says Martin Stammhammer, International Sales Manager Robots and Automation Systems of the WITTMANN Group. About WITTMANN Group The WITTMANN Group is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing of injection molding machines, robots and peripheral equipment for the plastics industry. Headquartered in Vienna/Austria, the WITTMANN Group consists of two main divisions, WITTMANN BATTENFELD and WITTMANN, which operate 8 production facilities in 5 countries, including 33 direct subsidiary offices located in all major plastics markets around the world. WITTMANN BATTENFELD focuses on the independent market growth in the manufacturing of state-of- the-art injection molding machines and process technology, providing a modern and comprehensive range of machinery in a modular design that meets the actual and future requirements of the plastic injection molding market. WITTMANN’s product range includes robots and automation systems, material handling systems, dryers, gravimetric and volumetric blenders, granulators, mold temperature controllers and chillers. With this comprehensive range of peripheral equipment, WITTMANN can provide plastics processors with solutions that cover all production requirements, ranging from autonomous work cells to integrated plant- wide systems. The syndication of the WITTMANN Group has led to connectivity between all product lines, providing the advantage plastics processors have been looking for in terms of a seamless integration of injection molding machines, automation and auxiliary equipment – all occurring at a progressive rate.