Wednesday, January 30, 2008
CNC machine
CNC machine Matsuura drills some holes....CNC milling drilling glodanje buĊĦenje strojevi machines metal processing industry D&D Osijek
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Okuma's Automotive Initiative
listened to our customers in the auto industry," said John D. Hendrick, president and chief operating officer, Okuma America Corp. (Charlotte, NC), at the announcement of two new machining centers that are the first of a series of machines that the machine tool builder is launching to meet the needs of reliable, high production coupled with flexibility. He described the machines as "a new generation of machine tools for flexible manufacturing," and as being "aimed at the auto industry." OEMs initially, but then...
The machines will be built in a new 112,000-ft2 plant in Charlotte; when running at capacity, the assembly line for the machines will be capable of outputting 70 per month.
The two machines—designated the CTV-30 and CTV-40—are both small-footprint, vertical spindle machining centers. These machines, although fully capable as stand-alone units, have been designed so that they can be lined up next to each other, as all service and maintenance points are located at the front or back; there are none along the sides. The sequence of machines would be, in effect, transfer machine-like in effect—thereby providing the high volume capabilities—while, at the same time, providing the flexibility, and possibly even agility, that is being sought in many production plants (to handle engineering design changes and/or demand shifts). A primary application area for the CTVs is in powertrain, even including the machining of transmission bell housings.
Although many of the machining center applications in higher-volume OEM (and supplier) plants are being handled by horizontal-spindle machines, Larry G. Schwartz, Okuma America senior vice president, said that the OEM engineers he and his colleagues talked with prior to the CTV development were fairly insistent on the vertical configuration. He explained that they felt that if they were able to get machines that would meet their cycle time requirements while providing a smaller footprint and a reduced price point (verticals are typically less expensive than horizontals), they would prefer the vertical design.
The use of vertical machining centers very much like the CTVs is comparatively common at OEM facilities in Japan. In order to help speed product development of the new machines, Okuma America's corporate parent, Nagoya-based Okuma Corp., entered into an agreement with Enshu Ltd. (Shizouka, Japan). Enshu produces machines of this type for Japanese auto makers. It is now providing Okuma America with the basic machine structure; the drives, motors, controls, sheet metal, and other components are being added by Okuma America. Hendrick said that the CTV machine designs were specifically developed to meet U.S. auto maker requirements, that the Enshu machines used in Japan may be based on the same iron but are clearly different from these new offerings. Not only has this collaboration with Enshu helped take 24 months out of the development time, but Hendrick cited another benefit to customers: the Enshu components have a proven track record in automotive installations, as do Okuma America CNC equipment (for example, there are 248 CNC Okuma turning machines at the GM Powertrain plant in Windsor, Ontario).
Picture this: several of these vertical spindle machines are arranged side to
side and a simple roller conveyor running in front of them. Operators would manually load the machines; unloading is automatic. Then parts are manually moved along the conveyor from machine to machine. The result is transfer machine-like. Yet there is inherent flexibility: Not only is this, the CTV-30 (there is also a larger CTV-40), a CNC machine, but note the machine base—these machines can be moved to handle differing part requirements.
The Equipment
Both are traveling column-style machines. The CTV-30 is the smaller of the two machines. Its X, Y, Z axes travels are 19.7 in., 15.0 in., and 15.7 in. (+8.3 in.). The rapid traverse rate is 1,417 ipm. The spindle provides speeds from 120 to 10,000 rpm. There is a standard 12-tool automatic tool changer; it handles CAT 30 tools. Tool changes (tool to tool) are performed in one second. The floor space requirements for the machine: 53 × 108.7 in. For those concerned with machine height: it's 102 in.
The CTV-40—yes, it handles CAT 40 tools—has travels of 25.6 in. X, 17.7 in. Y, and 13.8 in. (+4.3 in.) Z. The rapid rate is 1,417 ipm for the X and Y axes; it's 787 ipm in Z. The spindle speed range is 80 to 8,000 rpm. The automatic tool changer handles 20 tools. The floor space requirements: 63 × 127.7 in.; it is 110 in. high.
Both machines are equipped with the Charlotte-manufactured Okuma OSP 700 M controls and drives. There is a recognition that many auto plants have control requirements that specify things other than Okuma; consequently, other vendors (e.g., Fanuc, Allen-Bradley) are being quoted.
The Operation
The concept is to have a series of CTV machines aligned one next to the other. Instead of having one machining center perform a multitude of operations on a part, it would be likely, Schwartz suggested, that each machine would perform one or just a few operations, similar to the way parts are processed through a transfer line. Manning requirements are minimal. One person can handle from six to 10 machines, said Bruce Bowman, Okuma America's manager, Focused Industry. It is thought that part transfer from machine to machine could be manual, via a simple roller conveyor. Part load would also be manually performed, with part unload being an automatic function, located right in the machine tool. Because of the manual load and transfer, machine leveling on the floor, while still important, is not as critical as it can be with other types of machine tools. Okuma America engineers recognized that OEM factories tend to have existing personnel on site who are going to remain on the payroll, so this approach to simple and manual operation was devised, taking ergonomic requirements into consideration. This can help in production leveling.
The Payback
The machine is designed and built so that little or no maintenance is required. In the event of a major problem, it would be possible to (1) have the operations previously performed by the faulty machine picked up by another unit on the line (remember: these machines have CNC control and automatic tool changers) and (2) have the machine removed from the line for repair (the machines do not require special foundations). Disconnection and replacement, according to Schwartz, can be effected in a few hours. Downtime costs are thereby minimized. AD&P
http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/059704.html
The machines will be built in a new 112,000-ft2 plant in Charlotte; when running at capacity, the assembly line for the machines will be capable of outputting 70 per month.
The two machines—designated the CTV-30 and CTV-40—are both small-footprint, vertical spindle machining centers. These machines, although fully capable as stand-alone units, have been designed so that they can be lined up next to each other, as all service and maintenance points are located at the front or back; there are none along the sides. The sequence of machines would be, in effect, transfer machine-like in effect—thereby providing the high volume capabilities—while, at the same time, providing the flexibility, and possibly even agility, that is being sought in many production plants (to handle engineering design changes and/or demand shifts). A primary application area for the CTVs is in powertrain, even including the machining of transmission bell housings.
Although many of the machining center applications in higher-volume OEM (and supplier) plants are being handled by horizontal-spindle machines, Larry G. Schwartz, Okuma America senior vice president, said that the OEM engineers he and his colleagues talked with prior to the CTV development were fairly insistent on the vertical configuration. He explained that they felt that if they were able to get machines that would meet their cycle time requirements while providing a smaller footprint and a reduced price point (verticals are typically less expensive than horizontals), they would prefer the vertical design.
The use of vertical machining centers very much like the CTVs is comparatively common at OEM facilities in Japan. In order to help speed product development of the new machines, Okuma America's corporate parent, Nagoya-based Okuma Corp., entered into an agreement with Enshu Ltd. (Shizouka, Japan). Enshu produces machines of this type for Japanese auto makers. It is now providing Okuma America with the basic machine structure; the drives, motors, controls, sheet metal, and other components are being added by Okuma America. Hendrick said that the CTV machine designs were specifically developed to meet U.S. auto maker requirements, that the Enshu machines used in Japan may be based on the same iron but are clearly different from these new offerings. Not only has this collaboration with Enshu helped take 24 months out of the development time, but Hendrick cited another benefit to customers: the Enshu components have a proven track record in automotive installations, as do Okuma America CNC equipment (for example, there are 248 CNC Okuma turning machines at the GM Powertrain plant in Windsor, Ontario).
Picture this: several of these vertical spindle machines are arranged side to
side and a simple roller conveyor running in front of them. Operators would manually load the machines; unloading is automatic. Then parts are manually moved along the conveyor from machine to machine. The result is transfer machine-like. Yet there is inherent flexibility: Not only is this, the CTV-30 (there is also a larger CTV-40), a CNC machine, but note the machine base—these machines can be moved to handle differing part requirements.The Equipment
Both are traveling column-style machines. The CTV-30 is the smaller of the two machines. Its X, Y, Z axes travels are 19.7 in., 15.0 in., and 15.7 in. (+8.3 in.). The rapid traverse rate is 1,417 ipm. The spindle provides speeds from 120 to 10,000 rpm. There is a standard 12-tool automatic tool changer; it handles CAT 30 tools. Tool changes (tool to tool) are performed in one second. The floor space requirements for the machine: 53 × 108.7 in. For those concerned with machine height: it's 102 in.
The CTV-40—yes, it handles CAT 40 tools—has travels of 25.6 in. X, 17.7 in. Y, and 13.8 in. (+4.3 in.) Z. The rapid rate is 1,417 ipm for the X and Y axes; it's 787 ipm in Z. The spindle speed range is 80 to 8,000 rpm. The automatic tool changer handles 20 tools. The floor space requirements: 63 × 127.7 in.; it is 110 in. high.
Both machines are equipped with the Charlotte-manufactured Okuma OSP 700 M controls and drives. There is a recognition that many auto plants have control requirements that specify things other than Okuma; consequently, other vendors (e.g., Fanuc, Allen-Bradley) are being quoted.
The Operation
The concept is to have a series of CTV machines aligned one next to the other. Instead of having one machining center perform a multitude of operations on a part, it would be likely, Schwartz suggested, that each machine would perform one or just a few operations, similar to the way parts are processed through a transfer line. Manning requirements are minimal. One person can handle from six to 10 machines, said Bruce Bowman, Okuma America's manager, Focused Industry. It is thought that part transfer from machine to machine could be manual, via a simple roller conveyor. Part load would also be manually performed, with part unload being an automatic function, located right in the machine tool. Because of the manual load and transfer, machine leveling on the floor, while still important, is not as critical as it can be with other types of machine tools. Okuma America engineers recognized that OEM factories tend to have existing personnel on site who are going to remain on the payroll, so this approach to simple and manual operation was devised, taking ergonomic requirements into consideration. This can help in production leveling.
The Payback
The machine is designed and built so that little or no maintenance is required. In the event of a major problem, it would be possible to (1) have the operations previously performed by the faulty machine picked up by another unit on the line (remember: these machines have CNC control and automatic tool changers) and (2) have the machine removed from the line for repair (the machines do not require special foundations). Disconnection and replacement, according to Schwartz, can be effected in a few hours. Downtime costs are thereby minimized. AD&P
http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/059704.html
Okuma renews NHRA sponsorship
Okuma America Corp, a supplier of machine tools, renewed its sponsorship as the official machine tool supplier of the National Hot Rod Association. The agreement continues Okuma’s commitment to NHRA Championship Drag Racing. Okuma is also a primary sponsor of Bill Miller’s Top Fuel team.
As part of the exclusive, multiyear agreement, NHRA provides Okuma with multiple ways to advertise through a variety of NHRA marketing platforms, including track signage at each NHRA POWERade Series event. In addition, Okuma will be able to use the NHRA mark in its advertising and promotional campaigns.
Okuma America is based in Charlotte, N.C. It was founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan, and produces CNC machine tools and technologies.
http://www.americanmachinist.com/304/News/Article/False/69979/
As part of the exclusive, multiyear agreement, NHRA provides Okuma with multiple ways to advertise through a variety of NHRA marketing platforms, including track signage at each NHRA POWERade Series event. In addition, Okuma will be able to use the NHRA mark in its advertising and promotional campaigns.
Okuma America is based in Charlotte, N.C. It was founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan, and produces CNC machine tools and technologies.
http://www.americanmachinist.com/304/News/Article/False/69979/
Okuma, Next-Generation CNC Lathe
Machine tool builder Okuma America Corporation has introduced a new CNC lathe to address the growing need for a family of products suited to the needs of both first-time CNC users as well as experienced manufacturers supplying diverse industries with precision turned parts. Designated the Crown, Okuma's lathe offers a high-torque spindle motor, direct-drive headstock, servo-driven tool turret, an ergonomically-configured machine enclosure, and a compact 95.47 by 69.4 inch machine footprint.
The new lathe is currently available in three models, the 10 hp Crown-E, the 15 hp Standard Bore, and 20 hp Big Bore. A V12 hydraulic turret is standard with the Crown-E. The Standard Bore and Big Bore models both use a V12 numerically controlled servomotor turret. Okuma engineers note that the new lathe is intended to be what they describe as "an evolutionary" product driven by the demands of end-users and the worldwide machine tool marketplace. Okuma officials project the production life-cycle of the Crown family at some 10,000 units through the year 2005.
Okuma America president John Hendrick explained, "We began production of the Crown this past April, initially producing some 40 units which comprise the first shipments to our Okuma distributor locations throughout North and South America. These first lathes began shipping from our Charlotte plant in June, with production reaching 60 units a month by July and up to 80 units monthly as early as next year.
The E-Series Crown offers entry-level CNC pricing, based on a hydraulic turret system that provides station-to-station tool index times of 0.8 seconds. The S-Type Crown, with its servo-driven turret, cuts tool index times to 0.2 seconds. Depending upon the model selected, main spindle speeds are infinitely variable between either 75 and 4200 rpm or 65 and 3500 rpm. Machine travels in the Z and X axes are the same for all models: X-axis, 7.28 inches; Z-axis, 20.47 inches; X-axis rapid feed rate, 590.55 ipm; and Z-axis, 787.4 ipm.
Okuma design engineers stress that the Crown is designed to facilitate production and simplify CNC turning operations. For example, the Crown's unusual, rounded enclosure helps deflect fluids and chips away from the workpiece, while it facilitates operator access for routine set up and parts removal operations. The lathe's Okuma-manufactured OSP CNC system pivots 90 degrees from the machine for convenient viewing during programming operations. According to the builder, the on-board MacMan system streamlines diagnostic procedures to cut troubleshooting time, while the OSP's integral floppy disk drive enables operators to quickly load custom CNC machining programs authored on a conventional PC.
Prospective Crown customers currently range from entry-level CNC users to multinational automotive manufacturers and their first-tier suppliers. Mr. Hendrick adds, "With Okuma's 1996 introduction of the CADET-Mate and CADET-V machining centers and this year's CTV-30 and CTV-40 vertical machining centers, in combination with its CNC grinder line, the new Crown lathe further positions the company to market a complete line of advanced machine tools with the commonality of OSP computer numerical control.
Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a worldwide machine tool builder founded in Nagoya, Japan, in 1898. Established in Long Island, New York, in 1984, Okuma American today has a 364,000 square foot headquarters, manufacturing and training facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, employing 400 persons.
http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/0997scan2.html
The new lathe is currently available in three models, the 10 hp Crown-E, the 15 hp Standard Bore, and 20 hp Big Bore. A V12 hydraulic turret is standard with the Crown-E. The Standard Bore and Big Bore models both use a V12 numerically controlled servomotor turret. Okuma engineers note that the new lathe is intended to be what they describe as "an evolutionary" product driven by the demands of end-users and the worldwide machine tool marketplace. Okuma officials project the production life-cycle of the Crown family at some 10,000 units through the year 2005.
Okuma America president John Hendrick explained, "We began production of the Crown this past April, initially producing some 40 units which comprise the first shipments to our Okuma distributor locations throughout North and South America. These first lathes began shipping from our Charlotte plant in June, with production reaching 60 units a month by July and up to 80 units monthly as early as next year.
The E-Series Crown offers entry-level CNC pricing, based on a hydraulic turret system that provides station-to-station tool index times of 0.8 seconds. The S-Type Crown, with its servo-driven turret, cuts tool index times to 0.2 seconds. Depending upon the model selected, main spindle speeds are infinitely variable between either 75 and 4200 rpm or 65 and 3500 rpm. Machine travels in the Z and X axes are the same for all models: X-axis, 7.28 inches; Z-axis, 20.47 inches; X-axis rapid feed rate, 590.55 ipm; and Z-axis, 787.4 ipm.
Okuma design engineers stress that the Crown is designed to facilitate production and simplify CNC turning operations. For example, the Crown's unusual, rounded enclosure helps deflect fluids and chips away from the workpiece, while it facilitates operator access for routine set up and parts removal operations. The lathe's Okuma-manufactured OSP CNC system pivots 90 degrees from the machine for convenient viewing during programming operations. According to the builder, the on-board MacMan system streamlines diagnostic procedures to cut troubleshooting time, while the OSP's integral floppy disk drive enables operators to quickly load custom CNC machining programs authored on a conventional PC.
Prospective Crown customers currently range from entry-level CNC users to multinational automotive manufacturers and their first-tier suppliers. Mr. Hendrick adds, "With Okuma's 1996 introduction of the CADET-Mate and CADET-V machining centers and this year's CTV-30 and CTV-40 vertical machining centers, in combination with its CNC grinder line, the new Crown lathe further positions the company to market a complete line of advanced machine tools with the commonality of OSP computer numerical control.
Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a worldwide machine tool builder founded in Nagoya, Japan, in 1898. Established in Long Island, New York, in 1984, Okuma American today has a 364,000 square foot headquarters, manufacturing and training facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, employing 400 persons.
http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/0997scan2.html
Okuma America introduces next-generation CNC lathe - Okuma America Corp launches Crown lathes - Product Announcement
Machine tool builder Okuma America Corporation has introduced a new CNC lathe to address the growing need for a family of products suited to the needs of both first-time CNC users as well as experienced manufacturers supplying diverse industries with precision turned parts. Designated the Crown, Okuma's lathe offers a high-torque spindle motor, direct-drive headstock, servo-driven tool turret, an economically-configured machine enclosure, and a compact 95.47 by 69.4 inch machine footprint.
The new lathe is currently available in three models, the 10 hp Crown-E, the 15 hp Standard Bore, and 20 hp Big Bore. A V12 hydraulic turret is standard with the Crown-E. The Standard Bore and Big Bore models both use a V12 numerically controlled servomotor turret. Okuma engineers note that the new lathe is intended to be what they describe as "an evolutionary" product driven by the demands of end-users and the worldwide machine tool marketplace. Okuma officials project the production life-cycle of the Crown family at some 10,000 units through the year 2005.
Okuma America president John Hendrick explained, "We began production of the Crown this past April, initially producing some 40 units which comprise the first shipments to our Okuma distributor locations throughout North and South America. These first lathes began shipping from our Charlotte plant in June, with production reaching 60 units a month by July and up to 80 units monthly as early as next year.
The E-Series Crown offers entry-level CNC pricing, based on a hydraulic turret system that provides station-to-station tool index times of 0.8 seconds. The S-Type Crown, with its servo-driven turret, cuts tool index times to 0.2 seconds. Depending upon the model selected, main spindle speeds are infinitely variable between either 75 and 4200 rpm or 65 and 3500 rpm. Machine travels in the Z and X axes are the same for all models: X-axis, 7.28 inches; Z-axis, 20.47 inches; X-axis rapid feed rate, 590.55 ipm; and Z-axis, 787.4 ipm.
Okuma design engineers stress that the Crown is designed to facilitate production and simplify CNC turning operations. For example, the Crown's unusual, rounded enclosure helps deflect fluids and chips away from the workpiece, while it facilitates operator access for routine set up and parts removal operations. The lathe's Okuma-manufactured OSP CNC system pivots 90 degrees from the machine for convenient viewing during programming operations. According to the builder, the on-board MacMan system streamlines diagnostic procedures to cut troubleshooting time, while the OSP's integral floppy disk drive enables operators to quickly load custom CNC machining programs authored on a conventional PC.
Prospective Crown customers currently range from entry-level CNC users to multinational automotive manufacturers and their first-tier suppliers. Mr. Hendrick adds, "With Okuma's 1996 introduction of the CADET-Mate and CADET-V machining centers and this year's CTV-30 and CTV-40 vertical machining centers, in combination with its CNC grinder line, the new Crown lathe further positions the company to market a complete line of advanced machine tools with the commortality of OSP computer numerical control.
Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a worldwide machine tool builder founded in Nagoya, Japan, in 1898. Established in Long Island, New York, in 1984, Okuma American today has a 364,000 square foot headquarters, manufacturing and training facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, employing 400 persons.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_n4_v70/ai_20045238
The new lathe is currently available in three models, the 10 hp Crown-E, the 15 hp Standard Bore, and 20 hp Big Bore. A V12 hydraulic turret is standard with the Crown-E. The Standard Bore and Big Bore models both use a V12 numerically controlled servomotor turret. Okuma engineers note that the new lathe is intended to be what they describe as "an evolutionary" product driven by the demands of end-users and the worldwide machine tool marketplace. Okuma officials project the production life-cycle of the Crown family at some 10,000 units through the year 2005.
Okuma America president John Hendrick explained, "We began production of the Crown this past April, initially producing some 40 units which comprise the first shipments to our Okuma distributor locations throughout North and South America. These first lathes began shipping from our Charlotte plant in June, with production reaching 60 units a month by July and up to 80 units monthly as early as next year.
The E-Series Crown offers entry-level CNC pricing, based on a hydraulic turret system that provides station-to-station tool index times of 0.8 seconds. The S-Type Crown, with its servo-driven turret, cuts tool index times to 0.2 seconds. Depending upon the model selected, main spindle speeds are infinitely variable between either 75 and 4200 rpm or 65 and 3500 rpm. Machine travels in the Z and X axes are the same for all models: X-axis, 7.28 inches; Z-axis, 20.47 inches; X-axis rapid feed rate, 590.55 ipm; and Z-axis, 787.4 ipm.
Okuma design engineers stress that the Crown is designed to facilitate production and simplify CNC turning operations. For example, the Crown's unusual, rounded enclosure helps deflect fluids and chips away from the workpiece, while it facilitates operator access for routine set up and parts removal operations. The lathe's Okuma-manufactured OSP CNC system pivots 90 degrees from the machine for convenient viewing during programming operations. According to the builder, the on-board MacMan system streamlines diagnostic procedures to cut troubleshooting time, while the OSP's integral floppy disk drive enables operators to quickly load custom CNC machining programs authored on a conventional PC.
Prospective Crown customers currently range from entry-level CNC users to multinational automotive manufacturers and their first-tier suppliers. Mr. Hendrick adds, "With Okuma's 1996 introduction of the CADET-Mate and CADET-V machining centers and this year's CTV-30 and CTV-40 vertical machining centers, in combination with its CNC grinder line, the new Crown lathe further positions the company to market a complete line of advanced machine tools with the commortality of OSP computer numerical control.
Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a worldwide machine tool builder founded in Nagoya, Japan, in 1898. Established in Long Island, New York, in 1984, Okuma American today has a 364,000 square foot headquarters, manufacturing and training facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, employing 400 persons.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_n4_v70/ai_20045238
Okuma's Automotive Initiative
"We listened to our customers in the auto industry," said John D. Hendrick, president and chief operating officer, Okuma America Corp. (Charlotte, NC), at the announcement of two new machining centers that are the first of a series of machines that the machine tool builder is launching to meet the needs of reliable, high production coupled with flexibility. He described the machines as "a new generation of machine tools for flexible manufacturing," and as being "aimed at the auto industry." OEMs initially, but then...
The machines will be built in a new 112,000-ft2 plant in Charlotte; when running at capacity, the assembly line for the machines will be capable of outputting 70 per month.
The two machines—designated the CTV-30 and CTV-40—are both small-footprint, vertical spindle machining centers. These machines, although fully capable as stand-alone units, have been designed so that they can be lined up next to each other, as all service and maintenance points are located at the front or back; there are none along the sides. The sequence of machines would be, in effect, transfer machine-like in effect—thereby providing the high volume capabilities—while, at the same time, providing the flexibility, and possibly even agility, that is being sought in many production plants (to handle engineering design changes and/or demand shifts). A primary application area for the CTVs is in powertrain, even including the machining of transmission bell housings.
Although many of the machining center applications in higher-volume OEM (and supplier) plants are being handled by horizontal-spindle machines, Larry G. Schwartz, Okuma America senior vice president, said that the OEM engineers he and his colleagues talked with prior to the CTV development were fairly insistent on the vertical configuration. He explained that they felt that if they were able to get machines that would meet their cycle time requirements while providing a smaller footprint and a reduced price point (verticals are typically less expensive than horizontals), they would prefer the vertical design.
The use of vertical machining centers very much like the CTVs is comparatively common at OEM facilities in Japan. In order to help speed product development of the new machines, Okuma America's corporate parent, Nagoya-based Okuma Corp., entered into an agreement with Enshu Ltd. (Shizouka, Japan). Enshu produces machines of this type for Japanese auto makers. It is now providing Okuma America with the basic machine structure; the drives, motors, controls, sheet metal, and other components are being added by Okuma America. Hendrick said that the CTV machine designs were specifically developed to meet U.S. auto maker requirements, that the Enshu machines used in Japan may be based on the same iron but are clearly different from these new offerings. Not only has this collaboration with Enshu helped take 24 months out of the development time, but Hendrick cited another benefit to customers: the Enshu components have a proven track record in automotive installations, as do Okuma America CNC equipment (for example, there are 248 CNC Okuma turning machines at the GM Powertrain plant in Windsor, Ontario).
Picture this: several of these vertical spindle machines are arranged side to
side and a simple roller conveyor running in front of them. Operators would manually load the machines; unloading is automatic. Then parts are manually moved along the conveyor from machine to machine. The result is transfer machine-like. Yet there is inherent flexibility: Not only is this, the CTV-30 (there is also a larger CTV-40), a CNC machine, but note the machine base—these machines can be moved to handle differing part requirements.
The Equipment
Both are traveling column-style machines. The CTV-30 is the smaller of the two machines. Its X, Y, Z axes travels are 19.7 in., 15.0 in., and 15.7 in. (+8.3 in.). The rapid traverse rate is 1,417 ipm. The spindle provides speeds from 120 to 10,000 rpm. There is a standard 12-tool automatic tool changer; it handles CAT 30 tools. Tool changes (tool to tool) are performed in one second. The floor space requirements for the machine: 53 × 108.7 in. For those concerned with machine height: it's 102 in.
The CTV-40—yes, it handles CAT 40 tools—has travels of 25.6 in. X, 17.7 in. Y, and 13.8 in. (+4.3 in.) Z. The rapid rate is 1,417 ipm for the X and Y axes; it's 787 ipm in Z. The spindle speed range is 80 to 8,000 rpm. The automatic tool changer handles 20 tools. The floor space requirements: 63 × 127.7 in.; it is 110 in. high.
Both machines are equipped with the Charlotte-manufactured Okuma OSP 700 M controls and drives. There is a recognition that many auto plants have control requirements that specify things other than Okuma; consequently, other vendors (e.g., Fanuc, Allen-Bradley) are being quoted.
The Operation
The concept is to have a series of CTV machines aligned one next to the other. Instead of having one machining center perform a multitude of operations on a part, it would be likely, Schwartz suggested, that each machine would perform one or just a few operations, similar to the way parts are processed through a transfer line. Manning requirements are minimal. One person can handle from six to 10 machines, said Bruce Bowman, Okuma America's manager, Focused Industry. It is thought that part transfer from machine to machine could be manual, via a simple roller conveyor. Part load would also be manually performed, with part unload being an automatic function, located right in the machine tool. Because of the manual load and transfer, machine leveling on the floor, while still important, is not as critical as it can be with other types of machine tools. Okuma America engineers recognized that OEM factories tend to have existing personnel on site who are going to remain on the payroll, so this approach to simple and manual operation was devised, taking ergonomic requirements into consideration. This can help in production leveling.
The Payback
The machine is designed and built so that little or no maintenance is required. In the event of a major problem, it would be possible to (1) have the operations previously performed by the faulty machine picked up by another unit on the line (remember: these machines have CNC control and automatic tool changers) and (2) have the machine removed from the line for repair (the machines do not require special foundations). Disconnection and replacement, according to Schwartz, can be effected in a few hours. Downtime costs are thereby minimized.
http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/059704.html
The machines will be built in a new 112,000-ft2 plant in Charlotte; when running at capacity, the assembly line for the machines will be capable of outputting 70 per month.
The two machines—designated the CTV-30 and CTV-40—are both small-footprint, vertical spindle machining centers. These machines, although fully capable as stand-alone units, have been designed so that they can be lined up next to each other, as all service and maintenance points are located at the front or back; there are none along the sides. The sequence of machines would be, in effect, transfer machine-like in effect—thereby providing the high volume capabilities—while, at the same time, providing the flexibility, and possibly even agility, that is being sought in many production plants (to handle engineering design changes and/or demand shifts). A primary application area for the CTVs is in powertrain, even including the machining of transmission bell housings.
Although many of the machining center applications in higher-volume OEM (and supplier) plants are being handled by horizontal-spindle machines, Larry G. Schwartz, Okuma America senior vice president, said that the OEM engineers he and his colleagues talked with prior to the CTV development were fairly insistent on the vertical configuration. He explained that they felt that if they were able to get machines that would meet their cycle time requirements while providing a smaller footprint and a reduced price point (verticals are typically less expensive than horizontals), they would prefer the vertical design.
The use of vertical machining centers very much like the CTVs is comparatively common at OEM facilities in Japan. In order to help speed product development of the new machines, Okuma America's corporate parent, Nagoya-based Okuma Corp., entered into an agreement with Enshu Ltd. (Shizouka, Japan). Enshu produces machines of this type for Japanese auto makers. It is now providing Okuma America with the basic machine structure; the drives, motors, controls, sheet metal, and other components are being added by Okuma America. Hendrick said that the CTV machine designs were specifically developed to meet U.S. auto maker requirements, that the Enshu machines used in Japan may be based on the same iron but are clearly different from these new offerings. Not only has this collaboration with Enshu helped take 24 months out of the development time, but Hendrick cited another benefit to customers: the Enshu components have a proven track record in automotive installations, as do Okuma America CNC equipment (for example, there are 248 CNC Okuma turning machines at the GM Powertrain plant in Windsor, Ontario).
Picture this: several of these vertical spindle machines are arranged side to
side and a simple roller conveyor running in front of them. Operators would manually load the machines; unloading is automatic. Then parts are manually moved along the conveyor from machine to machine. The result is transfer machine-like. Yet there is inherent flexibility: Not only is this, the CTV-30 (there is also a larger CTV-40), a CNC machine, but note the machine base—these machines can be moved to handle differing part requirements.
The Equipment
Both are traveling column-style machines. The CTV-30 is the smaller of the two machines. Its X, Y, Z axes travels are 19.7 in., 15.0 in., and 15.7 in. (+8.3 in.). The rapid traverse rate is 1,417 ipm. The spindle provides speeds from 120 to 10,000 rpm. There is a standard 12-tool automatic tool changer; it handles CAT 30 tools. Tool changes (tool to tool) are performed in one second. The floor space requirements for the machine: 53 × 108.7 in. For those concerned with machine height: it's 102 in.
The CTV-40—yes, it handles CAT 40 tools—has travels of 25.6 in. X, 17.7 in. Y, and 13.8 in. (+4.3 in.) Z. The rapid rate is 1,417 ipm for the X and Y axes; it's 787 ipm in Z. The spindle speed range is 80 to 8,000 rpm. The automatic tool changer handles 20 tools. The floor space requirements: 63 × 127.7 in.; it is 110 in. high.
Both machines are equipped with the Charlotte-manufactured Okuma OSP 700 M controls and drives. There is a recognition that many auto plants have control requirements that specify things other than Okuma; consequently, other vendors (e.g., Fanuc, Allen-Bradley) are being quoted.
The Operation
The concept is to have a series of CTV machines aligned one next to the other. Instead of having one machining center perform a multitude of operations on a part, it would be likely, Schwartz suggested, that each machine would perform one or just a few operations, similar to the way parts are processed through a transfer line. Manning requirements are minimal. One person can handle from six to 10 machines, said Bruce Bowman, Okuma America's manager, Focused Industry. It is thought that part transfer from machine to machine could be manual, via a simple roller conveyor. Part load would also be manually performed, with part unload being an automatic function, located right in the machine tool. Because of the manual load and transfer, machine leveling on the floor, while still important, is not as critical as it can be with other types of machine tools. Okuma America engineers recognized that OEM factories tend to have existing personnel on site who are going to remain on the payroll, so this approach to simple and manual operation was devised, taking ergonomic requirements into consideration. This can help in production leveling.
The Payback
The machine is designed and built so that little or no maintenance is required. In the event of a major problem, it would be possible to (1) have the operations previously performed by the faulty machine picked up by another unit on the line (remember: these machines have CNC control and automatic tool changers) and (2) have the machine removed from the line for repair (the machines do not require special foundations). Disconnection and replacement, according to Schwartz, can be effected in a few hours. Downtime costs are thereby minimized.
http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/059704.html
Okuma to Host 2008 OMAC Integration Symposium
OMAC is pleased to announce that the next OMAC Integration Symposium will be hosted by Okuma in Charlotte, North Carolina, in November of 2008.
Okuma is the US based affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in the development of computer numeric controls (CNC) and machining technology, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan. Okuma is known for its technology leadership and world-class manufacturing, product quality and dedication to customer service. Okuma products are used in the automotive, aerospace and defense, construction and farming equipment, oil and energy, medical, mold and die, and fluid power industries.
Bob Tain, Senior Director of Controls for Okuma America Corporation, said, "Okuma is deeply honored to host the OMAC Symposium in 2008. OMAC played a key role in the development of the functional specifications for THINC, The Intelligent Numerical Control, and OMAC members acted as beta test sites for this one of a kind machine tool control. The Partners in THINC facility offers an excellent opportunity to see the OMAC vision realized and to see in action the possibilities of this vision to improve the bottom line of the end user community."
Okuma is also home to Partners in THINC, a one-stop shop for the end-user. The facility consists of a showroom with the latest technologies from world-renown companies ranging from ABB to Zeiss, where customers can come to see their own parts being cut in real time and find the best solutions for their specific manufacturing needs. A tour of the Partners in THINC facility will be a prominent feature of next year's event.
For more information about the OMAC Symposium, visit www.omac.org/techsymp2007.
About OMAC
OMAC The Open Modular Architecture Controls Users Group works to collectively derive common solutions for both technical and non-technical issues in the development, implementation, and commercialization of open, modular architecture control (OMAC) technologies, and to facilitate the accelerated development and convergence of industry and government developed OMAC technology guidelines to one set that satisfies common use requirements. OMAC has about 500 member representatives from end-user companies, OEM's, and technology providers and integrator companies. OMAC currently operates three Work Groups: Packaging Machinery, Manufacturing Infrastructure, and Machine Tool. OMAC is a charter member of The Automation Federation.
http://www.automation.com/store/p1030details25138.php
Okuma is the US based affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in the development of computer numeric controls (CNC) and machining technology, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan. Okuma is known for its technology leadership and world-class manufacturing, product quality and dedication to customer service. Okuma products are used in the automotive, aerospace and defense, construction and farming equipment, oil and energy, medical, mold and die, and fluid power industries.
Bob Tain, Senior Director of Controls for Okuma America Corporation, said, "Okuma is deeply honored to host the OMAC Symposium in 2008. OMAC played a key role in the development of the functional specifications for THINC, The Intelligent Numerical Control, and OMAC members acted as beta test sites for this one of a kind machine tool control. The Partners in THINC facility offers an excellent opportunity to see the OMAC vision realized and to see in action the possibilities of this vision to improve the bottom line of the end user community."
Okuma is also home to Partners in THINC, a one-stop shop for the end-user. The facility consists of a showroom with the latest technologies from world-renown companies ranging from ABB to Zeiss, where customers can come to see their own parts being cut in real time and find the best solutions for their specific manufacturing needs. A tour of the Partners in THINC facility will be a prominent feature of next year's event.
For more information about the OMAC Symposium, visit www.omac.org/techsymp2007.
About OMAC
OMAC The Open Modular Architecture Controls Users Group works to collectively derive common solutions for both technical and non-technical issues in the development, implementation, and commercialization of open, modular architecture control (OMAC) technologies, and to facilitate the accelerated development and convergence of industry and government developed OMAC technology guidelines to one set that satisfies common use requirements. OMAC has about 500 member representatives from end-user companies, OEM's, and technology providers and integrator companies. OMAC currently operates three Work Groups: Packaging Machinery, Manufacturing Infrastructure, and Machine Tool. OMAC is a charter member of The Automation Federation.
http://www.automation.com/store/p1030details25138.php
ABB Robotics Teams Up with Okuma, Becomes a Partner in THINC
ABB Robotics, a leading supplier of industrial robots, has joined Partners in THINC, creating a strategic alliance with Okuma, a world leader in the development and production of machine tools. Okuma is unique in the world of machine tools in that the company also develops and manufactures the control, drives and motor for its machine tools.
THINC, The Intelligent Numerical Control, introduces a new generation of control from Okuma that is a leap ahead in control hardware and software, and introduces a new and unique business model. THINC allows the end-user to take advantage of new capabilities as they become available from various sources, such as ABB, without an entire control overhaul. This new platform, in conjunction with the technology of the Partners in THINC, allows the end-user to be much more competitive in the world market.
Partners in THINC brings together more than 25 companies representing different facets of the manufacturing industry in an environment where they can collaborate on manufacturing solutions to allow customers to compete in a global and changing marketplace.
The THINC facility operates a full production line, giving the partners the opportunity to test products and configurations for nearly any application. The facility, located in Charlotte, N.C., is built around Okuma’s THINC control platform, and offers a non-competitive environment where the partners can work together to “test ideas and sharpen solutions in a real-world setting.”
THINC partners are able to demonstrate state-of-the-art technology in a realistic manufacturing environment, using real equipment and real materials. The partners can brainstorm using their products, as well as those of the other partners, creating solutions that can help customers to reduce downtime, maximize
“No one in the machine tool industry knows everything – ABB has expertise in robot automation – we know how to load and unload parts, inspect parts or can even add vision to a robot in order to guide it to locate or place parts. With Okuma’s THINC control, our technologies become more readily usable and accessible to Okuma, to our partners, and at the end of the day, to manufacturers who ultimately benefit,” said Jerry Osborn, vice president/general manager, ABB Robot Automation.
Whether it’s the best way to locate parts with vision technology, the best methods of pallet changeover, the best software tools for remote monitoring of factory floor processes or the best chip handling systems, the solutions proven at the THINC facility can be easily and immediately replicated by the customer, allowing them to implement a solution they know works.
The THINC partnership is truly unique in the industry, with the focus clearly on providing the best solutions to solve customers’ problems and to improve their competitiveness, rather than simply selling products.
“ABB is excited to work with Okuma and the Partners in THINC to develop industry solutions that meet the machine tool industry’s ever-increasing demands,” said Osborn. “Our easy-to-use, technologically advanced robot solutions will help optimize machine cutting time, while fast, accurate and highly cognitive robots will maximize the solutions achievable by the Partners in THINC.”
ABB matches its experience in machine tending, assembly, packaging, palletizing, welding and finishing with thousands of successful applications to benefit Partners in THINC. Fast, accurate and highly cognitive robots with payloads from 1 to 500 kg give the Partners in THINC versatile part handling tools to solve even the most challenging process. ABB’s RobotWare software family, including PC- and Windows-based software tools, makes the integration between the
THINC platform and ABB’s robot control system a superb combination. From collision detection to error handling, vision guidance to force control, ABB’s advanced robot technologies help maximize the solutions achievable by the Partners in THINC.
About ABB, Inc.
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 109,000 people.
About ABB Robotics
ABB is a leading supplier of industrial robots – also providing robot software, peripheral equipment, modular manufacturing cells and service for tasks such as welding, handling, assembly, painting and finishing, picking, packing, palletizing and machine tending. Key markets include automotive, plastics, metal fabrication, foundry, electronics, pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries. A strong solutions focus helps manufacturers improve productivity, product quality and worker safety. ABB has installed more than 150,000 robots worldwide.
http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/pit080701.html
THINC, The Intelligent Numerical Control, introduces a new generation of control from Okuma that is a leap ahead in control hardware and software, and introduces a new and unique business model. THINC allows the end-user to take advantage of new capabilities as they become available from various sources, such as ABB, without an entire control overhaul. This new platform, in conjunction with the technology of the Partners in THINC, allows the end-user to be much more competitive in the world market.
Partners in THINC brings together more than 25 companies representing different facets of the manufacturing industry in an environment where they can collaborate on manufacturing solutions to allow customers to compete in a global and changing marketplace.
The THINC facility operates a full production line, giving the partners the opportunity to test products and configurations for nearly any application. The facility, located in Charlotte, N.C., is built around Okuma’s THINC control platform, and offers a non-competitive environment where the partners can work together to “test ideas and sharpen solutions in a real-world setting.”
THINC partners are able to demonstrate state-of-the-art technology in a realistic manufacturing environment, using real equipment and real materials. The partners can brainstorm using their products, as well as those of the other partners, creating solutions that can help customers to reduce downtime, maximize
“No one in the machine tool industry knows everything – ABB has expertise in robot automation – we know how to load and unload parts, inspect parts or can even add vision to a robot in order to guide it to locate or place parts. With Okuma’s THINC control, our technologies become more readily usable and accessible to Okuma, to our partners, and at the end of the day, to manufacturers who ultimately benefit,” said Jerry Osborn, vice president/general manager, ABB Robot Automation.
Whether it’s the best way to locate parts with vision technology, the best methods of pallet changeover, the best software tools for remote monitoring of factory floor processes or the best chip handling systems, the solutions proven at the THINC facility can be easily and immediately replicated by the customer, allowing them to implement a solution they know works.
The THINC partnership is truly unique in the industry, with the focus clearly on providing the best solutions to solve customers’ problems and to improve their competitiveness, rather than simply selling products.
“ABB is excited to work with Okuma and the Partners in THINC to develop industry solutions that meet the machine tool industry’s ever-increasing demands,” said Osborn. “Our easy-to-use, technologically advanced robot solutions will help optimize machine cutting time, while fast, accurate and highly cognitive robots will maximize the solutions achievable by the Partners in THINC.”
ABB matches its experience in machine tending, assembly, packaging, palletizing, welding and finishing with thousands of successful applications to benefit Partners in THINC. Fast, accurate and highly cognitive robots with payloads from 1 to 500 kg give the Partners in THINC versatile part handling tools to solve even the most challenging process. ABB’s RobotWare software family, including PC- and Windows-based software tools, makes the integration between the
THINC platform and ABB’s robot control system a superb combination. From collision detection to error handling, vision guidance to force control, ABB’s advanced robot technologies help maximize the solutions achievable by the Partners in THINC.
About ABB, Inc.
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 109,000 people.
About ABB Robotics
ABB is a leading supplier of industrial robots – also providing robot software, peripheral equipment, modular manufacturing cells and service for tasks such as welding, handling, assembly, painting and finishing, picking, packing, palletizing and machine tending. Key markets include automotive, plastics, metal fabrication, foundry, electronics, pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries. A strong solutions focus helps manufacturers improve productivity, product quality and worker safety. ABB has installed more than 150,000 robots worldwide.
http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/pit080701.html
Okuma's automotive initiative - new machine tools from Okuma America
There are two new machine tools - in what is likely to become a more populous line of machinery - that have been developed by Okuma America to meet the needs of auto manufacturers. Here is an introduction.
"We listened to our customers in the auto industry," said John D. Hendrick, president and chief operating officer, Okuma America Corp. (Charlotte, NC), at the announcement of two new machining centers that are the first of a series of machines that the machine tool builder is launching to meet the needs of reliable, high production coupled with flexibility. He described the machines as "a new generation of machine tools for flexible manufacturing," and as being "aimed at the auto industry." OEMs initially, but then ...
The machines will be built in a new 112,000-[ft.sup.2] plant in Charlotte; when running at capacity, the assembly line for the machines will be capable of outputting 70 per month.
The two machines - designated the CTV-30 and CTV-40 - are both small-footprint, vertical spindle machining centers. These machines, although fully capable as stand-alone units, have been designed so that they can be lined up next to each other, as all service and maintenance points are located at the front or back; there are none along the sides. The sequence of machines would be, in effect, transfer machine-like in effect - thereby providing the high volume capabilities - while, at the same time, providing the flexibility, and possibly even agility, that is being sought in many production plants (to handle engineering design changes and/or demand shifts). A primary application area for the CTVs is in powertrain, even including the machining of transmission bell housings.
Although many of the machining center applications in higher-volume OEM (and supplier) plants are being handled by horizontal-spindle machines, Larry G. Schwartz, Okuma America senior vice president, said that the OEM engineers he and his colleagues talked with prior to the CTV development were fairly insistent on the vertical configuration. He explained that they felt that if they were able to get machines that would meet their cycle time requirements while providing a smaller footprint and a reduced price point (verticals are typically less expensive than horizontals), they would prefer the vertical design.
The use of vertical machining centers very much like the CTVs is comparatively common at OEM facilities in Japan. In order to help speed product development of the new machines, Okuma America's corporate parent, Nagoya-based Okuma Corp., entered into an agreement with Enshu Ltd. (Shizouka, Japan). Enshu produces machines of this type for Japanese auto makers. It is now providing Okuma America with the basic machine structure: the drives, motors, controls, sheet metal, and other components are being added by Okuma America. Hendrick said that the CTV machine designs were specifically developed to meet U.S. auto maker requirements, that the Enshu machines used in Japan may be based on the same iron but are clearly different from these new offerings. Not only has this collaboration with Enshu helped take 24 months out of the development time, but Hendrick cited another benefit to customers: the Enshu components have a proven track record in automotive installations, as do Okuma America CNC equipment (for example, there are 248 CNC Okuma turning machines at the GM Powertrain plant in Windsor, Ontario).
The Equipment
Both are traveling column-style machines. The CTV-30 is the smaller of the two machines. Its X, Y, Z axes travels are 19.7 in., 15.0 in., and 15.7 in. (+8.3 in.). The rapid traverse rate is 1,417 ipm. The spindle provides speeds from 120 to 10,000 rpm. There is a standard 12-tool automatic tool changer; it handles CAT 30 tools. Tool changes (tool to tool) are performed in one second. The floor space requirements for the machine: 53 x 108.7 in. For those concerned with machine height: it's 102 in.
The CTV-40 -yes, it handles CAT 40 tools - has travels of 25.6 in. X, 17.7 in. Y, and 13.8 in. (+4.3 in.) Z. The rapid rate is 1,417 ipm for the X and Y axes; it's 787 ipm in Z. The spindle speed range is 80 to 8,000 rpm. The automatic tool changer handles 20 tools. The floor space requirements: 63 x 127.7 in.; it is 110 in. high.
Both machines are equipped with the Charlotte-manufactured Okuma OSP 700 M controls and drives. There is a recognition that many auto plants have control requirements that specify things other than Okuma; consequently, other vendors (e.g., Fanuc, Allen-Bradley) are being quoted.
The Operation
The concept is to have a series of CTV machines aligned one next to the other. Instead of having one machining center perform a multitude of operations on a part, it would be likely, Schwartz suggested, that each machine would perform one or just a few operations, similar to the way parts are processed through a transfer line. Manning requirements are minimal. One person can handle from six to 10 machines, said Bruce Bowman, Okuma America's manager, Focused Industry. It is thought that part transfer from machine to machine could be manual, via a simple roller conveyor. Part load would also be manually performed, with part unload being an automatic function, located right in the machine tool. Because of the manual load and transfer, machine leveling on the floor, while still important, is not as critical as it can be with other types of machine tools. Okuma America engineers recognized that OEM factories tend to have existing personnel on site who are going to remain on the payroll, so this approach to simple and manual operation was devised, taking ergonomic requirements into consideration. This can help in production leveling.
The machine is designed and built so that little or no maintenance is required. In the event of a major problem, it would be possible to (1) have the operations previously performed by the faulty machine picked up by another unit on the line (remember: these machines have CNC control and automatic tool changers) and (2) have the machine removed from the line for repair (the machines do not require special foundations). Disconnection and replacement, according to Schwartz, can be effected in a few hours. Downtime costs are thereby minimized.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FWH/is_n5_v109/ai_19600718/pg_1
"We listened to our customers in the auto industry," said John D. Hendrick, president and chief operating officer, Okuma America Corp. (Charlotte, NC), at the announcement of two new machining centers that are the first of a series of machines that the machine tool builder is launching to meet the needs of reliable, high production coupled with flexibility. He described the machines as "a new generation of machine tools for flexible manufacturing," and as being "aimed at the auto industry." OEMs initially, but then ...
The machines will be built in a new 112,000-[ft.sup.2] plant in Charlotte; when running at capacity, the assembly line for the machines will be capable of outputting 70 per month.
The two machines - designated the CTV-30 and CTV-40 - are both small-footprint, vertical spindle machining centers. These machines, although fully capable as stand-alone units, have been designed so that they can be lined up next to each other, as all service and maintenance points are located at the front or back; there are none along the sides. The sequence of machines would be, in effect, transfer machine-like in effect - thereby providing the high volume capabilities - while, at the same time, providing the flexibility, and possibly even agility, that is being sought in many production plants (to handle engineering design changes and/or demand shifts). A primary application area for the CTVs is in powertrain, even including the machining of transmission bell housings.
Although many of the machining center applications in higher-volume OEM (and supplier) plants are being handled by horizontal-spindle machines, Larry G. Schwartz, Okuma America senior vice president, said that the OEM engineers he and his colleagues talked with prior to the CTV development were fairly insistent on the vertical configuration. He explained that they felt that if they were able to get machines that would meet their cycle time requirements while providing a smaller footprint and a reduced price point (verticals are typically less expensive than horizontals), they would prefer the vertical design.
The use of vertical machining centers very much like the CTVs is comparatively common at OEM facilities in Japan. In order to help speed product development of the new machines, Okuma America's corporate parent, Nagoya-based Okuma Corp., entered into an agreement with Enshu Ltd. (Shizouka, Japan). Enshu produces machines of this type for Japanese auto makers. It is now providing Okuma America with the basic machine structure: the drives, motors, controls, sheet metal, and other components are being added by Okuma America. Hendrick said that the CTV machine designs were specifically developed to meet U.S. auto maker requirements, that the Enshu machines used in Japan may be based on the same iron but are clearly different from these new offerings. Not only has this collaboration with Enshu helped take 24 months out of the development time, but Hendrick cited another benefit to customers: the Enshu components have a proven track record in automotive installations, as do Okuma America CNC equipment (for example, there are 248 CNC Okuma turning machines at the GM Powertrain plant in Windsor, Ontario).
The Equipment
Both are traveling column-style machines. The CTV-30 is the smaller of the two machines. Its X, Y, Z axes travels are 19.7 in., 15.0 in., and 15.7 in. (+8.3 in.). The rapid traverse rate is 1,417 ipm. The spindle provides speeds from 120 to 10,000 rpm. There is a standard 12-tool automatic tool changer; it handles CAT 30 tools. Tool changes (tool to tool) are performed in one second. The floor space requirements for the machine: 53 x 108.7 in. For those concerned with machine height: it's 102 in.
The CTV-40 -yes, it handles CAT 40 tools - has travels of 25.6 in. X, 17.7 in. Y, and 13.8 in. (+4.3 in.) Z. The rapid rate is 1,417 ipm for the X and Y axes; it's 787 ipm in Z. The spindle speed range is 80 to 8,000 rpm. The automatic tool changer handles 20 tools. The floor space requirements: 63 x 127.7 in.; it is 110 in. high.
Both machines are equipped with the Charlotte-manufactured Okuma OSP 700 M controls and drives. There is a recognition that many auto plants have control requirements that specify things other than Okuma; consequently, other vendors (e.g., Fanuc, Allen-Bradley) are being quoted.
The Operation
The concept is to have a series of CTV machines aligned one next to the other. Instead of having one machining center perform a multitude of operations on a part, it would be likely, Schwartz suggested, that each machine would perform one or just a few operations, similar to the way parts are processed through a transfer line. Manning requirements are minimal. One person can handle from six to 10 machines, said Bruce Bowman, Okuma America's manager, Focused Industry. It is thought that part transfer from machine to machine could be manual, via a simple roller conveyor. Part load would also be manually performed, with part unload being an automatic function, located right in the machine tool. Because of the manual load and transfer, machine leveling on the floor, while still important, is not as critical as it can be with other types of machine tools. Okuma America engineers recognized that OEM factories tend to have existing personnel on site who are going to remain on the payroll, so this approach to simple and manual operation was devised, taking ergonomic requirements into consideration. This can help in production leveling.
The machine is designed and built so that little or no maintenance is required. In the event of a major problem, it would be possible to (1) have the operations previously performed by the faulty machine picked up by another unit on the line (remember: these machines have CNC control and automatic tool changers) and (2) have the machine removed from the line for repair (the machines do not require special foundations). Disconnection and replacement, according to Schwartz, can be effected in a few hours. Downtime costs are thereby minimized.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0FWH/is_n5_v109/ai_19600718/pg_1
Okuma America Corporation Company Retains Presidium Retirement Advisers
Presidium Retirement Advisers, Inc., a U.S. SEC Registered Investment Adviser (#801-65318) has been selected by Okuma America Corporation to analyze funds, lower fees, optimize a diverse portfolio, and design an individualized education program for participants in the company retirement plans.
Based in Charlotte, NC, Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. based affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in the development of computer numeric controls (CNC) and machining technology, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan. The Charlotte location is the headquarters for the manufacturing and training facilities for the North and South American operations.
"Presidium offers the whole package - in addition to offering 401-K fund selection assistance, they also provide education to employees on investing and individual investment optimization for each employee," stated Lisa Rummel, Vice President of Finance for Okuma America Corporation.
"Okuma values Presidium's personal interaction with each employee. Presidium held 30 minute sessions with each individual employee to discuss the best investments suited for their lifestyles," Rummel noted.
Prior to partnering with Presidium, Okuma's 401k investment program was coordinated through an employee-based committee. "Okuma has a well-educated employee base that was skeptical of the need for assistance in the investment process, but the results truly speak for themselves. The members are very pleased to have access to this resource," Rummel added.
About Presidium Retirement Advisers, Inc.
Presidium Retirement Advisers, Inc. a United States SEC Registered Investment Adviser (#801-65318) that identifies and corrects costly inefficiencies in company retirement programs. More information can be found on their website at http://www.presidiumadvisers.com/ .
About Okuma
Okuma America Corporation is the US based affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in the development of computer numeric controls (CNC) and machining technology, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan. Okuma is known for its technology leadership and world-class manufacturing, product quality and dedication to customer service. Okuma products are used in the automotive, aerospace and defense, construction and farming equipment, oil and energy, medical, mold and die, and fluid power industries.
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,246172.shtml
Based in Charlotte, NC, Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. based affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in the development of computer numeric controls (CNC) and machining technology, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan. The Charlotte location is the headquarters for the manufacturing and training facilities for the North and South American operations.
"Presidium offers the whole package - in addition to offering 401-K fund selection assistance, they also provide education to employees on investing and individual investment optimization for each employee," stated Lisa Rummel, Vice President of Finance for Okuma America Corporation.
"Okuma values Presidium's personal interaction with each employee. Presidium held 30 minute sessions with each individual employee to discuss the best investments suited for their lifestyles," Rummel noted.
Prior to partnering with Presidium, Okuma's 401k investment program was coordinated through an employee-based committee. "Okuma has a well-educated employee base that was skeptical of the need for assistance in the investment process, but the results truly speak for themselves. The members are very pleased to have access to this resource," Rummel added.
About Presidium Retirement Advisers, Inc.
Presidium Retirement Advisers, Inc. a United States SEC Registered Investment Adviser (#801-65318) that identifies and corrects costly inefficiencies in company retirement programs. More information can be found on their website at http://www.presidiumadvisers.com/ .
About Okuma
Okuma America Corporation is the US based affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in the development of computer numeric controls (CNC) and machining technology, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan. Okuma is known for its technology leadership and world-class manufacturing, product quality and dedication to customer service. Okuma products are used in the automotive, aerospace and defense, construction and farming equipment, oil and energy, medical, mold and die, and fluid power industries.
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,246172.shtml
CNC system for high speed machining—Siemens, booth D-4208
The Sinumerik 840D NCU 573.5 is a CNC system that offers a range of specialized functions for milling, drilling, turning and grinding. Its capabilities also include nibbling, punching and laser machining technologies.
When used with the integrated PLC 317-2DP, the company says the NCU provides approximately 160 percent higher numerical control performance and 300 percent PLC performance over previous versions, as well as more CNC user memory.
When expanded to the maximum, the system has 31 axes/spindles and ten channels/ten mode groups. The CNC also offers features to increase productivity, especially in high speed and five-axis machining.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_3_77/ai_n6187537
When used with the integrated PLC 317-2DP, the company says the NCU provides approximately 160 percent higher numerical control performance and 300 percent PLC performance over previous versions, as well as more CNC user memory.
When expanded to the maximum, the system has 31 axes/spindles and ten channels/ten mode groups. The CNC also offers features to increase productivity, especially in high speed and five-axis machining.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_3_77/ai_n6187537
Manufacturing communication software - Systems and Software
DNC software has been upgraded to provide new features and conveniences. The CNC version is said to feature new user friendly screens, a faster ONG code editor, automatic file compare features and wire frame back plotting, allowing part visualization on the floor without interrupting the programmer.
Version 2.0 also offers an option of up/down loading or a dynamic interface, mid-program restart and three in-program trouble shooting routines. Protocols for specific machine tools are available upon request.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_7_75/ai_95056902
Version 2.0 also offers an option of up/down loading or a dynamic interface, mid-program restart and three in-program trouble shooting routines. Protocols for specific machine tools are available upon request.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_7_75/ai_95056902
EDM machines and hole drillers—Charmilles, booth D-4000
The Roboform 23 ram EDM and HD30 CNC hole driller will be introduced. The company will also display the Robofil 240cc and Robofil 440cc high speed wire EDM machines, which use the company's "cc" generator to achieve high cutting speeds, The Robofil 440cc has a new extended height option to allow submerged machining of parts up to 24" tall.
Also displayed will be Roboform 350 and Roboform 550 ram EDMs, which have dynamic process control (DPControl) that provides operators with information about both the machine and the current job, The Roboform 350 will feature a new, optional 64-position toolchanger.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_3_77/ai_n6187388
Also displayed will be Roboform 350 and Roboform 550 ram EDMs, which have dynamic process control (DPControl) that provides operators with information about both the machine and the current job, The Roboform 350 will feature a new, optional 64-position toolchanger.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_3_77/ai_n6187388
Multi-Axis Countouring With Control System
The company has added a multi-axis contouring capability to its line of SmartMotors. The SmartMotor is a single component that combines the technologies of servomotor, amplifier, encoder and PLC. This integrated servo motion control system delivers higher reliability, smaller footprint and simplified field service, according to the company. With this new contouring capability, an RS-485 network of SmartMotors can perform motion profiles as complex as multi-axis splines or as simple as circular and linear interpolation.
CAD and G-Code interfaces can turn a laptop computer and three SmartMotors into a complete three-axis CNC control system on the back of the machine, without a NEMA cabinet. A SmartMotor-based machine consists simply of motors and a PC, a makeup the company says will not call for expensive service or render the user helpless by creating extended dowtime.
The contouring function employs PC-resident drivers. These drivers are used by host interfaces and arc available to OEMs for custom applications. The interfaces are compatible with Visual Basic as well as many other tools.
Applications that benefit from this technology range from CNC milling and turning to laser cutting and water jet cutting to glue laying or engraving. It is appropriate for any application where circular interpolation and G-Code compatibility are needed, but also where the machine builder wants a simpler, less expensive solution that is easier to support.
All that is needed is a PC with an RS-232 port. The company supplies an RS-232 to RS-485 converter, resident to the mating connector to link the chain of SmartMotors. Because bulky PC expansion cards are not used, a simple laptop will complete a system
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_4_73/ai_65806302
CAD and G-Code interfaces can turn a laptop computer and three SmartMotors into a complete three-axis CNC control system on the back of the machine, without a NEMA cabinet. A SmartMotor-based machine consists simply of motors and a PC, a makeup the company says will not call for expensive service or render the user helpless by creating extended dowtime.
The contouring function employs PC-resident drivers. These drivers are used by host interfaces and arc available to OEMs for custom applications. The interfaces are compatible with Visual Basic as well as many other tools.
Applications that benefit from this technology range from CNC milling and turning to laser cutting and water jet cutting to glue laying or engraving. It is appropriate for any application where circular interpolation and G-Code compatibility are needed, but also where the machine builder wants a simpler, less expensive solution that is easier to support.
All that is needed is a PC with an RS-232 port. The company supplies an RS-232 to RS-485 converter, resident to the mating connector to link the chain of SmartMotors. Because bulky PC expansion cards are not used, a simple laptop will complete a system
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3101/is_4_73/ai_65806302
Laser High Speed Control provides CNC/oscillator interface
Available on C4000i-B 4,000 W, CO2 laser oscillator, Laser High-Speed Control provides servo-to-beam integration and data transfer speeds of 125 [micro]m. It features interface that transmits laser power command data at control cycle of 125 [micro]s by connecting CNC and laser oscillator with fiber optic FANUC Servo Serial Bus I/O. Synchronization between servos and beam allows for reduced position gap between cutting head position and beam on/off command.
High Speed Laser Interface Between CNC and Laser Oscillator Provides Improved Accuracy in Laser Processing
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA, JULY 12, 2007 GE Fanuc Automation, a unit of GE Industrial, today announced the availability of its new Laser High-Speed Control product. The unit provides tight servo to beam integration so that the laser control is synchronized with the servo system for higher speed and improved accuracy in laser processing. The control is available on the C4000i-B laser, a 4000 watt laser oscillator, providing the machine with improved beam quality, better beam mode stability and high-speed laser control.
With data transfer speeds of 125 [micro]m, the lag between beam on/off commands has been reduced by 16 times, therefore improving the synchronization between servo and beam to reduce position gap.
"Laser High-Speed Control uses the servo system to control the C4000i-B at a very high speed and tight integration with the moving axes," said Paul Webster, GE Fanuc CNC Product Manager. "This allows for much improved speed and precision in the cutting process. Improvements in cutting precision and maximum speed are achieved and scrap is reduced by eliminating over cutting."
The laser interface has been improved to transmit the laser power command data at high speed by connecting the CNC and laser oscillator with the fiber optic FANUC Servo Serial Bus (FSSB) I/O. The high-speed fiber optic network improves both speed and accuracy of laser processing by tightly integrating the CNC, servos and laser oscillator. This feature transmits the laser power command data from the CNC to the laser oscillator at the control cycle of 125 [micro]s.
The control of the C4000i-B 4000 watt CO2 laser is tightly synchronized with the servo control because the same interface is used for the controlled axes of the laser-processing machine. The improvements to the speed of the laser control cycle and the tight synchronization between the servos and beam allow for reduced position gap between the cutting head position and beam on/off command producing faster processing, higher accuracy and less scrap.
This tight integration is only possible by using a FANUC system where the CNC, servo amplifiers, motors and CO2 laser oscillator is from one company. The end result is higher speed and higher precision laser cutting when using the C4000i-B CO2 laser with the high speed laser control option.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0PIL/is_2007_July_30/ai_n19394248
High Speed Laser Interface Between CNC and Laser Oscillator Provides Improved Accuracy in Laser Processing
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA, JULY 12, 2007 GE Fanuc Automation, a unit of GE Industrial, today announced the availability of its new Laser High-Speed Control product. The unit provides tight servo to beam integration so that the laser control is synchronized with the servo system for higher speed and improved accuracy in laser processing. The control is available on the C4000i-B laser, a 4000 watt laser oscillator, providing the machine with improved beam quality, better beam mode stability and high-speed laser control.
With data transfer speeds of 125 [micro]m, the lag between beam on/off commands has been reduced by 16 times, therefore improving the synchronization between servo and beam to reduce position gap.
"Laser High-Speed Control uses the servo system to control the C4000i-B at a very high speed and tight integration with the moving axes," said Paul Webster, GE Fanuc CNC Product Manager. "This allows for much improved speed and precision in the cutting process. Improvements in cutting precision and maximum speed are achieved and scrap is reduced by eliminating over cutting."
The laser interface has been improved to transmit the laser power command data at high speed by connecting the CNC and laser oscillator with the fiber optic FANUC Servo Serial Bus (FSSB) I/O. The high-speed fiber optic network improves both speed and accuracy of laser processing by tightly integrating the CNC, servos and laser oscillator. This feature transmits the laser power command data from the CNC to the laser oscillator at the control cycle of 125 [micro]s.
The control of the C4000i-B 4000 watt CO2 laser is tightly synchronized with the servo control because the same interface is used for the controlled axes of the laser-processing machine. The improvements to the speed of the laser control cycle and the tight synchronization between the servos and beam allow for reduced position gap between the cutting head position and beam on/off command producing faster processing, higher accuracy and less scrap.
This tight integration is only possible by using a FANUC system where the CNC, servo amplifiers, motors and CO2 laser oscillator is from one company. The end result is higher speed and higher precision laser cutting when using the C4000i-B CO2 laser with the high speed laser control option.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0PIL/is_2007_July_30/ai_n19394248
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