Mechatronic System

Concept and Use

Mechatronic system for tabletop assembly with small, fully functional modules.

The setup is designed for group work and versatile combinations; control modules are connected via standardized data interfaces.

Module Overview

The system consists of the following modules and accessories:

• 99610 Feed magazine with test unit
• 99611 Swivel transfer unit
• 99612 Analog measuring unit
• 99613 Sorting in 3 tracks
• 99700 Control panel
• 99701 Manual service unit
• 99702 Accessory set

Feed Magazine with Test Unit

Workpieces are separated from a magazine and presented on a tray. Fill level, tray position and workpiece state are monitored by light barrier, microswitch, optical and inductive sensors.

A double-acting pneumatic cylinder ejects the workpieces one by one; the actuator is driven by an electrically operated solenoid valve.

• Setup: aluminium T-slot plate 160 mm x 400 mm, data interface, compact valve island, feed magazine for cylindrical workpieces, test unit at the workpiece tray
• Learning goals: singling out parts, collision-safe presentation and sensor-based state detection

Swivel Transfer Unit

The swivel transfer unit moves workpieces between two modules with defined material transfer points.

A pneumatic swivel drive up to 180? transfers workpieces with a vacuum gripper; cylinder positions are detected by non-contact sensors.

• Setup: aluminium T-slot plate 160 mm x 400 mm, data interface, compact valve island, swivel transfer unit, vacuum generator
• Learning goals: transferring, suction gripping and collision-safe placement

Analog Measuring

Workpieces are moved on a carrier by a lifting unit against an analog travel measuring system.

The measuring system outputs an analog voltage from 0 to 10 V that can be evaluated by a PLC at the analog input; the workpiece can be routed to the next station or discharged at the lower position.

• Setup: aluminium T-slot plate 160 mm x 400 mm, data interface, compact valve island, lifting unit with rodless cylinder, analog measuring system, discharge cylinder, 2 chutes
• Learning goals: discharge of defined parts and material thickness measurement with a linear potentiometer

Sorting in 3 Tracks

Workpieces are guided past three chutes by a linear system and sorted by material using a moving pneumatic output unit.

Positioning is handled by a fork light barrier on a perforated sheet, the chutes are monitored by a light barrier.

• Setup: aluminium T-slot plate 350 mm x 400 mm, data interface, compact valve island, linear unit with pneumatic workpiece carrier, 3 chutes, light barrier
• Learning goals: positioning, limit switches/microswitches, reversing contactor circuit and fill-level monitoring

Control Panel and Service Unit

The control panel is a sturdy aluminium enclosure with rubber feet and a 25-pin D-SUB connector for connection to the controller.

The manual service unit can be mounted on an installation plate and includes a filter pressure regulator, pressure control valve, manual shut-off valve and Steckfix connections.

• Control panel: 1 illuminated pushbutton normally closed, 2 illuminated pushbuttons normally open, 1 selector switch, 2 indicator lamps, 25-pin D-SUB
• Service unit: 5 ?m filter, semi-automatic condensate drain, adjustment range 0.05 to 0.7 MPa

Accessory Set

The 23-piece accessory set combines storage box, tools, profile connectors, end caps and workpieces for day-to-day operation.

One accessory set is sufficient for systems with up to eight MCS modules.

• Storage box and release tool for plastic tubing
• Screwdrivers, hex key set, tube cutter, profile connectors and end caps
• ? 30 mm workpieces in aluminium and plastic in various heights