5 Ways Automated Feeding Systems Support Smart Factories

Automated feeder systems are an integral part of manufacturing as they make the task of getting components onto the assembly line or into the process more efficient than manual parts feeding, which is incredibly time consuming. 

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However, today’s automated feeding systems not only speed up the process of placing components into the manufacturing process, but they support the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry thanks to the inclusion of robotics and machine vision. The addition of these modern technologies helps to streamline operations and increase throughput while cutting costs associated with human error, waste, bottlenecks and downtime, which are the major goals of today’s Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Industry 4.0 efforts. 

This blog aims to provide information on modern automated feeding systems and how they maximize productivity and minimize costs to align with smart factory initiatives. 

What is an Automated Feeding System? 

Using automated feeder systems, components are dropped onto a feeder surface where a robot equipped with machine vision accurately identifies properly oriented parts and, using pick-and-place functionality, quickly and consistently picks them up and places them on the production line. 

Thanks to the ability to program automated feeding systems for multiple parts, many different components can be run on the same feeder with minimal effort. In addition, today’s automated feeder systems are compatible with most parts, including silicone, and multiple programs can be loaded into the system to permit efficient and effective switching between parts and production runs. 

Integral Components of Automated Feeding Systems

The addition of robotics and machine vision to traditional bowl feeders and other feeder systems created automated feeding systems that provide the agility to keep pace with today’s more flexible manufacturing dynamics that require the handling of multiple components to accommodate the trend toward variable production runs and to support smart factory initiatives. 

For more information, please visit Feeders, Servo Feeders.

The following components can be integrated with flex feeders to create an automated feeding system that meets the needs of today’s digital transformation in the manufacturing industry: 

Modern Feeder Systems Support Smart Factories

Since the goals of Industry 4.0 and the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry are to increase efficiency, become more agile and improve quality, while cutting costs, modern automated feeding systems that feature machine vision and robots are essential to smart factory efforts. 

Automated feeding systems provide the following five smart factory advantages:

1. Increased efficiency and speed: Automated flex feeders can handle high volumes of parts quickly and with high levels of precision, supporting the desire to increase efficiency and throughput. 
2. Flexibility: The ability to program and reprogram the robot, machine vision system and the automated feeding system to manage a variety of parts allows the flexibility and agility needed to support batch production and the trends toward smaller runs and customization in manufacturing. Traditional part feeders were limited in that they could only handle one type of part. 
3. Minimize manual labor: Manual part feeding was very hands on and time consuming and required constant human intervention. The next generation of feeder systems often required human intervention if bottlenecks occurred, faulty parts were being selected or parts were not being properly oriented. The addition of smart technologies such as machine vision and robots significantly reduces the need for human intervention, reducing the risk of introducing errors while increasing throughput. Removing the need for manual labor also decreases costs and introduces the possibility of 24/7 operations, which are major goals of the digital factory. 
4. Maximized quality: By including machine vision for inspection and analysis of selected parts and collaborative robots for fast precision, today’s automated feeding systems offer precise, consistent, efficient and reliable feeding of parts onto assembly lines, while also eliminating human error. The ability to precisely and accurately feed only “good” parts onto the assembly line means that quality control efforts will be maximized and scrap and waste will be minimized, improving product quality and reducing costs. 
5. Minimizing costs: By automating part feeding and ensuring higher levels of accuracy, consistency and precision with the addition of robots and machine vision, operational costs such as labor, waste and downtime can be significantly reduced, while throughput and quality control are increased, improving the bottom line. 

Single Axis Servo Wire feeders

The AFM 1Dx line of machines is a simple but “complete” solution for your material straightening feeding & cutting needs. The programmability and quick setup of AFM 1Dx machine increases productivity.  Consisting of a payoff unit, dual plane straightener with a robust feeder, and a separate encoder measuring device for exceptional accuracy, and a cutter, the AFM 1Dx is your simple but yet sophisticated straight-and-cut answer.

Features:
– Modular frame construction for easy field installation of accessories and options
– Controlled by AIM Inc.’s SmartEditor® Software
– 2-plane straightener can be converted to 4-plane
– Removable adjustor bars for quick straightener setup.
– Separate encoder feedback for accurate lengths even if slippage occurs
– Individually adjustable Feeder and Encoder roller pressure
– Multiple material capacities even for the toughest jobs
– Remote servicing and monitoring via your existing Internet connection (“Dial-A-Service”)
– Dual processors allow concurrent part production and new part programming
– Instant Production Statistics for estimating
– Programming Kiosk:
• Industrial Flat Touch Panel PC with full keyboard and touchpad.
• SmartEditor® software enables batch run configurations.
• Almost unlimited file storage
• Barcode production scheduling ready.
• Windows® Operating System, ready to connect with your network.
– Automatic Decoiler:
• AIM’s standard P270-8, 5 Hp, flux Vector drive, powered payoff unit with pneumatic arm adjustable tension is included.
– Fast Hydraulic dual acting cutter:
• Sizes 12, 14 and 16 incorporate a high speed hydraulic cutter.
– Options:
• Servo, Hydraulic, air, circular saw cutters available
• Customized solutions with multiple straighteners and quick change over
• In-line chamfering module
• In-line die module
• In-line die marking module with standard or programmable marking (punch or laser)
• In-line drilling module
• Battery operated handheld cutter for up to 12.7mm (½”)
• Pivot bracket for quick changeover between two installed straighteners.
• Extra straighteners
Indexing Turret Straightener for quick changeover between up to 6 installed straighteners with the touch of a button.
• Robot integration for pick & place part manipulations, complete with end effector tooling.
• AccuThread End-of-line Threading Module for wire sizes 6 – 16 mm (0.236” – 0.630”).
• End-of-line Cold Heading Modules for collar and upset type forming operations.
• CE Compliance Kit-Includes necessary components for CE compliance

AIM also offers 2D and 3D CNC wire bending solutions with models ranging from 2.5mm to 25mm.  Our automated work cell solutions take wire from straight and cut or coil and will form, weld and systematically arrange the finished parts.

The company is the world’s best Uncoilers, Metal Sheet Uncoiling Machine supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.