AUTOMATION GROUP BLOG

FPM Tooling & Automation : Precision Cutting

2010-10-20T13:05:00.001-07:00

FPM Tooling & Automation introduces the Variable Contact Cutter [VCC, patent pending] for precision cutting of "unstable" blow molded plastic parts. The VCC robot cell will enable plants to automate cutting operations that are often performed manually.

The unit solves the difficulty of removing molded hollow blow molded parts "from flash" during the cooling cycle, and the compact design will provide auto re-positioning to resolve part-to-part variables during finishing applications.

FPM's VCC auto responsive cutting system is both lightweight and much smaller than anything already on the market.

FPM Tooling & Automation : Vision System Robot Cell

2008-09-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

FPM Tooling & Automation has a “Keep It Simple Solution” to assure Quality Control. The high tech combination of robotics and vision with the new short wave length characteristics of the blue LED light makes an ideal choice for high precision dimensional measurements and many other demanding assembly applications. Image processing converts a target image captured by a Charged Couple Device (CCD) camera into a digital signal and then performs various arithmetic operations on the signal to extract the characteristics of the target.

Finally, a GO/NO-GO result is output based on preset tolerance limits. Robotics is the premier choice of operation because of its ability to quickly position itself into multiple areas to be analyzed. If you need to check another part or an area which was over-looked, simply and cost effectively add this additional step to the process.

FPM Tooling & Automation : Four-Station Robotic Deflash Cell

2008-09-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

FPM Tooling & Automation has your solution to unlimited deflash possibilities.

Our four-station robotic deflash cell eliminates the need for multiple stand-alone trim machines or manual operator deflash stands. Take the knife out of your operator’s hand and let our 6-axis robot do the work. Running up to 4 components at once, the cell utilizes a force-compliance device to mimic the human touch, precisely following parting lines and compensating on-the-fly for part shrink and variation. Quickly exchange one nest plate for another while the robot continues to process other parts as they are loaded/unloaded. Once the new nest plate is mounted in place and the electrical connector is attached, the cell automatically identifies the new plate and loads the appropriate cutting path in the robot controller.

The nest plates are universal, fit in any of the workstations, and can easily be duplicated for any future parts or components that need processing.

In addition, a quick change tool adaptor on the robot end of arm allows for unlimited additional operations within the cell. Need to drill, tap, cut, or rout holes, slots, or openings in your parts? Need to attach or assemble components, screws, or any other hardware to your parts? Simply add the necessary tool with matching quick change adaptor to the robot cell and instantly eliminate the need for a separate secondary fixture or manual operation.

FPM Tooling & Automation : Robotic Staple Station

2008-08-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

FPM Tooling & Automation has utilized the flexibility of a six-axis robot to rapidly staple and assemble plastic components. A precision CNC cut aluminum nest with replaceable, hardened, staple receiver inserts allows for repeatable part location.

The robot installs each staple then verifies it was properly driven and located before moving to the next point. A fiber optic sensor continuously monitors the amount of staples present in the gun. When the staples run low, the robot finishes processing its current part then reorients itself to an ergonomic reload position, allowing the operator to refill the gun with a minimum of machine downtime.

Interchangeable nest plates allow for unlimited part combinations for future applications.

FPM Tooling & Automation : Robot Sonic Weld

2008-08-01T05:35:00.000-07:00

FPM Tooling & Automation has utilized State-of-the-Art Robotics and Ultrasonics to assemble acoustic fabrics to molded thermoplastics. When welding thermoplastics, the thermal rise in the bonding area is produced by the absorption of mechanical vibrations which are introduced across the joint to be welded. This process can happen in less than a second which works hand-n-hand with robotics. The universal combination of “Robotics & Ultrasonics” quickly executes multiple welding positions on complex attitudes to eliminate the need for dedicated precision weld devices at each location. Our professional engineers also design and manufacture these work cells to be interchangeable for the next application.

Systems Integration PLC Specialists

2008-02-22T06:44:00.001-08:00

Design and integration services for PLC (Programmable Logic Control). Capabilities include on site programming and debugging for PLC and HMI interfaces, custom designed automation and control systems, technical support, electrical AutoCAD drawings, hardwire design: panel design and layout, power distribution, system interconnects, system communications, safety circuitry, PLC I/O, robot I/O interfaces and pneumatic and hydraulic circuits design.

FPM Tooling & Automation : CMM Inspection Services

2008-02-19T12:39:00.001-08:00

ISO 9001:2000 certified and accredited calibration, layout, inspection and measurement services. Capabilities include dimensional lay-ups, checking fixtures, third party inspection, tool calibration, fixed CMM 72x36x30, parts measuring, machined components, tooling layout, die model, precision fixture sign off, gages measuring, and large part inspections. On-site calibration with FARO arm is available. Other services include welding, repairs, CNC machining, plastic part inspection and sorting, preventative maintenance and reverse engineering. All computer measuring machines, precision calipers, micrometers, gages & indicators equipment are certified regularly.

FPM Tooling & Automation : Automated Part Finishing

2008-01-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

FPM Tooling & Automation streamlined approach results in quicker turn around, increased speed to market as well as consistent control of the product engineering throughout the part design and manufacturing process.

As manufacturer of industrial tooling and finishing equipment for the blow mold industry FPM has accumulated many outstanding technology breakthroughs and leads in this field. Upholding experience and technology to serve customers, our team enjoys support from loyal clients worldwide.

Manufacturer of factory automation, industrial robots, robotic vision systems, programmable controller, CNC controller,light curtain sensors, PC-based controller, computer& peripherals, plastic assembly production lines.

FPM Tooling & Automation : Automation Equipment

2008-01-31T05:52:00.001-08:00

FPM Tooling & Automation has developed the expertise to design and manufacture state of the art secondary fixtures and gages. We offer our customers the turn key manufacturing for each program. Latest technology is utilized to generate complex PLC controlled machinery with multiple cutting and drilling applications. Hydraulic trim presses and deflash dies have also become a standard.

From concept design to a finish product, FPM Tooling & Automation is a One-Stop-Shop. In a commitment toward the goal of quality FPM is ISO 9001 certified.

FPM Tooling & Automation : Engineered Blow Stands

2008-01-30T12:01:00.001-08:00

FPM Tooling & Automation has the expertise to custom design and build bottom blow stands to your exact specifications and applications. Whether it is an automotive application requiring insert molding or an industrial application such as drums and containers with threaded openings. Our 40+ years of experience serving the tooling needs of the Blow Molding Industry can provide you with a complete turn-key solution to your specialized needs.

- spreader pin stands

- dual blow pin stands

- single blow pin stands

- unscrewing blow pin stands [single & dual]

- compacting blow pin stands [single & dual]

FPM Tooling & Automation : Chipless Cutter

2008-01-25T12:58:00.000-08:00

Chipless Cutters enable molders to easily remove plastic at specific hole locations without the cumbersome task of removing unwanted chips from the plastic part. As the left-over chips roll around inside of the part, they can become lodged into sending units or severely reduce the air flow required for the part to successfully perform its function.

The Chipless Cutter produces a single spiral shaped chip that is directed away from the part enabling the hole to be finished and the chip to fall harmlessly to the floor outside of the part or into a supplied bin for ease of adding it to re-grind or disposal.

FPM Tooling & Automation design of Chipless Cutters can easily be mounted into existing drill chucks or can be specialized to fit into drill or rotating motors on existing secondary machines. This enables the molder to successfully retro-fit the existing secondary or downline machine to the Chipless Cutter option.