What is a Machine Tending Industrial Robot?
A machine tending industrial robot is a type of robot designed to automate the process of loading and unloading materials from industrial machines, such as CNC machines, injection molding machines, and others. These robots handle repetitive tasks with high precision, reducing the need for human intervention and improving workplace safety by minimizing exposure to hazardous or monotonous work.
How It Works
The robot picks up raw materials from a feeder or tray, loads them into the machine, and then removes finished parts once the machine completes its operation. It can be equipped with vision systems or sensors to ensure accuracy, especially when dealing with varying part positions.
Example: Fanuc Robot in Action
Fanuc robots, like the M-20 series, are popular for machine tending due to their suitable payload capacity and reach. In a typical setup, you’d see the robot’s arm extending to grip a part, either placing it into a machine or removing it after processing. The robot is usually positioned near the machine, often within a safety enclosure to protect workers.
