Anca's AIMS Enables Modular Automation Capability
The Anca Integrated Manufacturing System is a modular automation approach for tool production that reduces downtime, streamlines handling and enables lights-out manufacturing.
The Anca Integrated Manufacturing System (AIMS) uses smart automation and IT integration to connect sequential processes in tool manufacturing. The interconnected technology solution reduces machine downtime between batches, streamlines manual handling and enables operators to step away from continual monitoring and adjustment of production machines.
“Integration and automation solutions provide infrastructure to manufacture tools with increased productivity and higher quality,” says Chris Hegarty, Anca Group CEO. “We are delighted to be accelerating into the fourth industrial revolution with advanced, smart factory solutions for cutting tool makers — intelligent automation for connecting processes and data management.”
AIMS offers modular functionality users can adapt to their factory’s needs, from smaller-scale, data-based options to the full AIMS setup across a series of machines. The AIMS server is the system’s heart, managing data flows between the elements of the AIMS system and established IT platforms like ERP systems. Users can transfer tools between operations with the AutoFetch robot, mark tools with AutoMarkX, automate tool measurement and process compensation using AutoComp and manage data via the AutoSet hub.
“Our customers continue to look for custom solutions for increased automation in their operations, and AIMS is Anca’s holistic response,” says Duncan Thompson, AIMS project lead. “Automation that works best is targeted to repetitive processes that can occur alongside value-adding individual skills. AIMS slots in to seamlessly automate routine processes.”
Anca would like to highlight its AutoMarkX tool marking solution. AutoMarkX is capable of automated pallet loading and takes care of the tool laser marking process, freeing operators to perform more value-adding tasks. As part of the AIMS ecosystem, AutoMarkX is able to automatically receive and dispatch pallets from AutoFetch, while connectivity to the AIMS server provides details of the message to be marked on the tools. This connectivity enables users to perform lights-out production.
Related Content
-
Modern Bar Feeds Bring New Life to Automatic Swiss Lathes
Cam-actuated Swiss lathes are still the fastest way to process many parts. By adding modern bar feeders, this shop has dramatically improved their utilization with the ability to work unattended, even in a lights-out environment.
-
View From My Shop Video 1: A Deep Dive Into Automation with Advance CNC
Advance CNC leverages multiple forms of automation to increase its milling machines' productivity. Learn more in this episode of The View From My Shop.
-
Choosing a Five-Axis Machine Tool With Automation in Mind
While much focus is placed on the machinery that moves parts, the features most important for automating five-axis machining are arguably found in the machine tool itself.