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[August 2003]
Hexapod Robot System for Tableware Decoration
data M Engineering GmbH (Valley/Oberlaindern, Germany) is to present a redesigned and enhanced version of its COPRA(r) DecalApplicator which is not only able to decorate plates but almost the whole range of tableware, including cups and bowls. Even a version for the decoration of roof tiles has been realised recently.
data M reports that during production, a change between various products does not cause any long downtime as the operation can be carried out in a matter of minutes due to the system's high flexibility and its integrated CNC control. All process related data such as temperature for printing pad and vacuum table, pad movements etc, are stored in respective set-up files and can be recalled by the operator whenever required. This, adds the company, makes heat release technology profitable - even from a run of just 50 pieces.
This machine allows the use of kiss-fit decals in addition to the usual square cut decals, thus creating the opportunity for better sheet fills. In combination with the machine's control unit, the vision system allows the transfer pad to compensate for misshaped or misaligned ware.
The six-axis hexapod robot system allows for a completely free movement of the printing pad. As a result, even non-symmetrical pieces or elliptical ones - for example, oval fish plates - can be decorated automatically, a task which has usually been a manual one until now.
The integrated CNC control enables a fully automatic production process and a connection to production control systems. Except for a power switch, a main valve for compressed air and an emergency push-button, there are no manual switches required any more. Machine parameters, such as temperature profiles, pressure etc., are displayed on the monitor.
As an option, data M Engineering is offering an integrated laser based quality inspection system scanning the tableware's geometry and accurate dimension before entering the decoration station. Products not suitable for being decorated can thus be rejected or treated differently.
The redesigned system will be on show at Ceramitec in Munich (16-20 September).
www.datam.de
ENDS