WINNER "TEXPROCESS INNOVATIONAWARD 2019 NEW TECHNOLOGY"
3D ROBOT
Common robotic systems for computer-driven sewing processes on 3D parts consist of a sewing machine top, weighing approximately between 80-150 kg. In order to move this mass precisely in space, a heavy-duty robot with an appropriate load capacity is necessary. Such a system has an enormous space requirement. Robotic systems like that usually cost hundreds of thousand Euros, which makes them the main cost within the system.
The VETRON innovation
The innovation is based on the development of an ultra-light sewing machine top. Consequent lightweight construction of all machine components created an overall weight of just 6 kg, including yarn corps and drive motor.
By this weight reduction, a cost-effective and much smaller standard industrial robot can be used. VETRON is using a 55 kg light 6-axis robot, working overhead (hanging) in a sewing cell. The light weight and the innovative method creates a highly-flexible, highly-compact robot cell for various sewing and welding processes. The robot cell dimensions are similar to a CNC unit and can be transported and assembled easily.
In addition to that, several more innovations are used, such as a camera system, detecting and correcting eventual variations of the part towards the programmed seam contour during the sewing process.
The sewing machine can be removed from the cell by hand thanks to its light weight, which generates benefits in case of needed service. Oder Even in case of service, the low weight of the sewing heads result in considerable advantages, because the sewing machine can be easily removed from the cell by hand
Applications
» Sewing decorative seams on dashboards
» Sewing of parts with 3D seam contour
Benefits
» Short process time per dashboard, seam measurement and sewing in one pass
» less space requirements
» less overall weight
» less energy consumption
» lower costs
» Easy change of the carbon sewing top without crane or lifting equipment