Rethinking system concepts

SIPLAUTOMATION develops and produces automated assembly systems. The specialists from Bologna, Italy offer a new type of system. FLEX-AS is so flexible that various parts can be assembled on one platform, even if the parts are drastically different. The unique feature of the SIPLAUTOMATION solution is its consistently modular design. Customers choose the required automation components from a standard portfolio and assemble their custom system. The idea is as simple as it is revolutionary.

 

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In industries such as writing instruments, cosmetics, biomedicine, personal care, plastic molding, automotive manufacturing, and electrical devices, product lifecycles, and consequently, the amortization period for production systems are extremely short. SIPLAUTOMATION‘s modular solution allows systems to be quickly and efficiently configured – including the base frame, the transport section, and the feeding systems. This enables faster production startup and longer productive time.

FLEX-AS is based on independent and implementable modules. The length of the machine depends on the number of operations to be performed, of feeders to be installed, the planned production, and any future adjustments. For the transport section, users can choose from three linear transfer systems – one of which is the freely programmable Link Conveyor System LS Link from WEISS GmbH in Buchen, Germany.

Thanks to its flexibility, Link Conveyor System LS Link perfectly fits the concept of the Italians. With a frame width of 454 millimeters regardless of the chain link length, LS Link requires very little space on assembly lines. In the standard design, precision chain link lengths of 80, 100, 125 and 150 millimeters are available. The transport chain can be up to 15 meters long. For easier transport, assembly and setup, it can be separated into smaller parts. The link conveyor system can be installed either vertically or horizontally. Consequently, the transport of parts can be adapted perfectly to the production process and the space available the installation area. In combination with the servo motor, the fast transfer system is extremely versatile since any position and any feed can be approached. This increases its adaptability to the higher-level assembly line and to the customer application. A positioning accuracy of +/- 0.05 mm is achieved thanks to the clever combination of the gear unit and motor. The angular backlash is just 5 arcsec.

Overall, SIPLAUTOMATION was impressed by the low system complexity of the extremely robust linear transfer system from WEISS. Its carefully considered yet simple design and high degree of reliability ensure high productivity and efficiency. Furthermore, the combination of a stable transport chain and an individually programmable motor created the flexibility required by SIPLAUTOMATION. Thanks to the PLC communication module, LS Link can easily and quickly be integrated into the system controller.

Other automation components can be connected to LS Link as a basis. „The clear, compact design of WEISS components is an additional advantage. It ensures solutions that work well, are aesthetically pleasing and easy to manage in terms of footprint,“ says Sales Director Daniele Nanetti from SIPLAUTOMATION. „Another key factor was the fast response to issues that arose both the technically and commercially. WEISS offers fast, efficient support with clear, precisely specified costs. This simplifies project management.“ After all, the excellent price-performance ratio of WEISS products played an important role in the decision-making process of SIPLAUTOMATION. With its combination of high quality and competitive costs, WEISS is the perfect partner for fulfilling technical and commercial requirements in line with the project goals.

To complete FLEX-AS, SIPLAUTOMATION offers various feeding systems that can be chosen based on the application, from flexible robot-guided systems to more traditional feeding systems.

Thanks to the modular design, customers can configure the platform according to their needs and requirements. If needs change during the system life cycle, the SIPLAUTOMATION system is designed so that attachments and conversions are possible at any time. The extensive WEISS portfolio also fits this concept: after all, additional automation components are easily integrated into LS Link. This was another reason why SIPLAUTOMATION chose WEISS. „The wide range of products speaks for itself,“ explains Daniele Nanetti. He adds: „This means we can solve various applications with a single supplier. From a mechanical perspective, WEISS also allows for integration.“

In a market characterized by short product life cycles and rapidly evolving consumer preferences, manufacturers are challenged to achieve a limited amortization period for their investments in plants and systems. The FLEX-AS assembly machine meets the challenge by offering a flexible, adaptable solution that can fulfill various assembly requirements over time. By minimizing the need for expensive upgrades or replacing entire sub-assemblies and maximizing operating efficiency, the FLEX-AS assembly machine enhances the overall ROI for manufacturers across a range of industries.