Automation add-on enables unmanned operation of mechanical vices

Automated operation of clamping devices saves costs and set-up times and thus ensures an increase in profits. With the new RoboBuddy, mechanical vices from the AllLite CentroLite 68 & 125 line and the Titan2 / NC8 series can be opened and closed with an adapter without the need for a human operator.

The big advantage: customers can continue to use their existing manual vices and keep their costs under control without having to resort to hydraulic or pneumatic clamping devices or retrofitted table feed-throughs. The RoboBuddy thus serves as the perfect complement to complete automation downstream. The integration can be realised without a complex conversion of the clamping devices, only two dowel pins have to be taken up to prepare the manual vice.

The automation extension can be attached via a linear guide or directly to the robot arm. The RoboBuddy is equipped with a Modbus RTU interface as standard. This enables reliable data transmission via the RS485 serial interface. Additional interfaces such as OPC-UA or digital I/Os can be made available via an optionally available control unit.

Usually the RoboBuddy is used on the robot including the handle unit. The robot inserts the workpiece and the RoboBuddy closes the vice with a tightening torque of up to 100 Nm. The workpiece is thus securely clamped throughout and can be machined. After machining, RoboBuddy opens the vice unmanned so that the robot can remove the workpiece. RoboBuddy finds the position of the crank pin independently. It can store the position of the crank pin , the clamping force and the clamping width for up to 256 vices and then call them up again.

By adding the RoboBuddy, customers have the option of automating the manufacturing processes with existing resources, even for small batch sizes. In this way, a high degree of automation is achieved in the long term while keeping investment costs as low as possible.

Further features are explained in the following video: https://youtu.be/TqH7H4Q2Jt8

For further information, please contact our customer department at sales@allmatic.de or +49 8377 929-0.

 

Short set-up times with high level of flexibility for 5-sided machining
5-axis vice TeleCentric now also available in jaw width 125 mm

With the TeleCentric 70 K & M centric vice, a centric 5-axis vice is already available, which has won over numerous companies with its unique features. A standard quick-jaw change system, the low-maintenance telescopic spindle and mounting holes for zero-point clamping systems are part of the standard equipment.

The TeleCentric 125 provides an impressive 40 kN clamping force with a tightening torque of just 60 Nm The clamping width reaches from 44 to 227 mm. The minimum clamping width can be reduced from 44 to 11 mm using a clamping width adapter. The interference contours remain independent of the clamping width due to the design of the centric telescopic spindle. Maximum accessibility for 5-sided machining is guaranteed.

The centric function means that no zero point needs to be shifted, ensuring simple programmability. The symmetrical design ensures a centred and parallel position of the workpiece, which guarantees high clamping accuracy. Mounting holes for zero-point clamping systems (centre distance 200 mm) are also integrated in the TeleCentric as standard.

The greatest possible flexibility and the shortest possible set-up times are extremely important, especially in the production of smaller batches. This is why the 5-axis vice is equipped with a quick-jaw change system. The tool-free change of each pair of jaws takes just ten seconds thanks to the quick-release fastener. The vice can be adapted to the workpieces to be machined as quick as possible without tools. Jaws for clamping pre-machined parts, gripper jaws for raw parts and carbide-coated jaws are available for the TeleCentric 125. The jaws of the TeleCentric 70 can also be used on the TeleCentric 125.

Find out more:  Allmatic Bestellsystem / eShop | TeleCentric 125 | purchase online

 

Meet us at trade fairs!

We look forward to you meeting us and our products at national and international events.

The next exhibition dates:

MECSPE Bologna
06.03. – 08.03.2024

GROB open house
16.04. – 19.04.2024

teamtec Alzenau
23.04. – 25.04.2024

BIEHM Bilbao
03.06. – 07.06.2024
Booth at EUREX SL

Open days: Le mans Frankreich
12.06. – 13.06.2024
Booth Techmo/Satech

World of Tools Hoffmann Group
18.06. – 20.06.2024
Booth: A9

AMB Stuttgart
10.09 – 14.09.2024

Hall 1 / Booth E51

Automatic setup changes – A visionary solution, enabled by the right partners.”

Get unique insights into the development and realization of this special manufacturing solution out of the production of ALLMATIC-Jakob Spannsysteme, a manufacturer of machine vices in Unterthingau (Allgäu), on 15 November 2022 at 3 pm (CET). 

This automation solution enables unmanned manufacturing of various components, including automatic setup changes – already from batch size one.

We promise an interesting one-hour discussion and Q&A session about this agile robot cell with the project partners (ALLMATIC, HELLER and Fastems).

Learn in only one hour …:

  • How a clever system combines part and pallet handling into one solution.
  • How to be flexible with changing batch sizes.
  • How a machine can automatically be re-configured in case of a product change.
  • How to retain experienced staff with meaningful jobs while still producing 24/7.

Registrations for the 1-hour live video stream on 15 November at 3 p.m. are possible at the following website: www.automatic-setup-changes.de

 

 

Handling and application advantages increase productivity

 

ALLMATIC-Jakob Spannsysteme GmbH is expanding its product range for improved 5-axis machining: the new TeleSense 125 vice with integrated clamping force monitoring offers a whole range of benefits for the user. At the AMB 2022 exhibition, visitors can see this for themselves at Stand F51 in Hall 1.

Anyone who wants to achieve optimum results with a 5-axis machine must clamp their workpieces correctly. ALLMATIC-Jakob Spannsysteme GmbH is now launching the new TeleSense 125 vice for this purpose. It offers numerous advantages such as a low tightening torque, integrated clamping force monitoring or universal quick change jaws for short set-up times.

High clamping force with low tightening torque

Users are particularly pleased with the low force required for clamping: 40 kN clamping force can be achieved with a tightening torque of just 50 Nm – made possible by a power-ratio spindle. This sets ALLMATIC-Jakob clamping systems apart from many comparable vices that require 100 Nm and more. Working with the torque wrench allows the clamping force to be defined precisely. “The uniform spanner size is also pleasant, as only one interface is required for force setting and clamping,” explains Felix Kiechle, product manager at ALLMATIC Jakob.

Thanks to the integrated clamping force monitoring, the force is always under control when clamping the workpiece and during machining. Fluctuations or a drop in clamping force are immediately apparent. This reduces errors during machining and protects both – man and machine.

The current clamping force is shown directly on the display on the vice. In addition, wireless data transmission to a terminal is possible. A long battery life as well as simple and quick changing of the batteries keep the clamping force monitoring available to the maximum. On request, the vice is also available without a monitoring unit. In this case, the clamping force monitoring can be upgraded.

Universal quick-change jaws help to reduce set-up times

Another advantage of the vice ist the quick change jaws, which enable short set-up times. A jaw change can be done in less than 10 seconds without tools. The universal quick change jaw covers a wide range of different set-ups. Clamping of parallel, round and irregular parts as well as gripping and draw-down clamping are easy to realise. Components can also be clamped reliably without pre-stamping. “This makes it very flexible fort the user,” explains Kiechle. “I can clamp parts pre-machined on the step, use gripp-studs as well as pre-screw a gripp-strip. If the user therefore don’t has to change the clamping jaw as often, this also results in a reduction in set-up times.”

With a jaw width of 125 mm, the 5-axis vice offers a clamping range of 0 to 206 mm. With an extension element, even 281 mm can be achieved – without conversion or changing the base part. The jaw assortment of the NC8, Titan 2, CentroGripp and T-Rex models can be used. This makes the user flexible.

The TeleSense 125 vice has an optimal design for 5-axis machining. The symmetrical design allows excellent accessibility from all sides. This is important in order to take maximum advantage of 5-axis machining.

The trapezoidal spindle itself adapts optimally to the contour and does not protrude anywhere. Since it is completely encapsulated, it does not get dirty or damaged during machining. The high thread pitch ensures a rapid traverse, in which fast pre-positioning of the workpiece is possible.

ALLMATIC-Jakob Spannsysteme GmbH at AMB 2022: Hall 1, Stand F51

 

The manufacturer of high pressure vices based in Bavaria, Germany reports a growth trajectory that is expected to reach pre-Covid levels by 2023.

The request for common series products and innovative automation solutions is increasing more an more.

Thanks to mainly regional suppliers, a stable supply chain and an high in-house production share, Allmatic is and has always been able to deliver. Our series products are manufactured in large quantities, these are therefore available from stock for customers and partners. „We can proudly say that we were able to maintain a delivery performance of over 98% in the previous months“ emphasizes Managing Director Herbert Mayr.

By expanding our product range to become a full-range supplier, sales already increased by 28% compared to 2020.

The sales markets of Allmatic and it‘s digital business unit AllLite span 58 countries worldwide.
„We are working intensively on new products for our target markets – especially for the automation sector.  This is one of the reasons why we are planning to increase sales by 15% compared to the previous year“ says CEO Mayr.

In the first quater 2022, the manufacturer has already increased ist sales compared to first quater of the previous year by 57%. This allows a confident outlook for the future.

AllLite – the digital business unit of Allmatic

With a simple and fast online business Allmatic reacts to the needs of its customers for greater agility in the procurement of high-quality clamping devices – since 2017 with the establishment of AllLite. In the online shop customers worldwide can configure the first product family CentroLite online, order directly and receive it within a few days.

All products are reduced to the essential technical functionalities, are produced in optimal design in Germany / Bavaria and exclusively distributed online. And this under the highest Allmatic quality standards. More information at www.alllite.de

Many machining centers have already been waiting for CentroLite

Because CentroLite is the first centric clamp that has all the essential functions, but does not dispense with superfluous, costly features.

The modular centric clamps are produced on demand with a high degree of  automation and the sales channel is exclusively online. AllLite achieves this performance through optimized designs and manufacturing processes that meets industry standards 4.0. This is how AllLite is focusing on demand, especially from single and small series production as well as from companies with market-leading automation solutions.

Less is often more

Not every machining company requires complex clamping systems with as many different applications as possible. On the other hand, numerous companies require machine vices with only a few, but precisely defined, performance features.
Exactly these selected functions deliver CentroLite clamping systems from AllLite point-accurate and cost-effective. Without compromising on the performance – the gripping solution achieves a clamping force of 28 kN, which is an excellent value, without pre-embossing.
CentroLite is thus a flexible, powerful clamping system, which is easily and quickly configured, ordered and delivered in the AllLite online shop and thus offers an unbeatable price / performance ratio.

CentroLite in practical tests

The CentroLite product family has been developed in close co-operation with customers and so they can also report on their experience in the field of practice. Stefan Langguth, for example, owner of the device & machine building in Veilsdorf, was particularly impressed by the ratio of the torque to the spindle (100 Nm) to the clamping force of 30 kN – a perfect grip system!

This in turn ensures an extremely safe voltage with the highest cutting performance and very good vibration behavior and thus provides a high surface quality. “In addition, the stability and repeatability as well as the large span of this small centering clamp have impressed us”, says Langguth.
With regard to accessibility, an increase in the jaws, as well as the use of a console, appeared to the device and machine-tooler to be advantageous. Both points were implemented by Allmatic-Jakob Spannsysteme GmbH in serial production. “As a customer, we even had an influence on the final development of the CentroLite product family, which means real customer orientation for us,” enthuses Langguth. As the owner of a young, growing company, Langguth is also thrilled by the digital distribution channel, which significantly reduces procurement efforts and costs.

Product Variations:
1. CentroLite 68K

  • Smallest center clamp
  • Weight: max. 4.2 Kg
  • Span for tensioners with gripper jaws: 0 – 103mm
  • Span for tensioners with step jaws: 0 – 104 mm

2. CentroLite 68M

  • Weight: max. 5.7 Kg
  • Span for tensioners with gripper jaws: 0 – 163mm
  • Span for tensioners with step jaws: 0 – 164 mm

Accessories:

  • consoles (grid 30, 50, 63 and zero point system)
  • Alignment and fixing sets (T-slot, adjusting screws, clamping set, centering pin)
  • Baking (Gripping, stepping or floating jaws)
  • Workpiece stop (mechanical, magnetic)
  • Other (torque wrench, plug-in insert, screwdriving insert, plug)

Centrolite is compatible with the following zero point clamping systems:

  • GRESSEL gredoc
  • Schunk VERO-S
  • Lang Quick Point 52×52
  • Erowa
  • System 3R MacroMagnum
  • Hilma Quintus 60
  • Roemheld
  • Matzat

This is how CentroLite covers the 8 most common zero point clamping systems.

More on Centrolite

Allmatic is expanding its tombstone portfolio with the WorkBuddy clamping aid for safe, ergonomic and efficient set-up

Set-up time plays an important role in production: expensive processing machines have to be rapidly retooled and workpieces clamped for processing to minimise downtimes. The clamping of workpieces is key in this process – and what Allmatic-Jakob Spannsysteme specialises in. The manufacturer has now added the WorkBuddy to its clamping system of tombstones. The electronic clamping aid speeds up the loading of tombstones during work preparation and enables ergonomic work that is gentle on the joints. Unwieldy torque wrenches and incorrect tightening torques are now a thing of the past.

Clamping systems are among the most important machine elements for machining centres: a CNC machine can only work quickly and efficiently if workpieces are securely fitted and support the machining process. The fast and reliable clamping of workpieces is essential to ensuring that cost-intensive machine tools are economically efficient. Clamping is generally done using a torque wrench or hand crank inside the machine itself or at an external set-up station. One major disadvantage of this method is the awkward handling – often above head height. This results in physical strain and a loss of working hours, which puts a financial burden on companies. Allmatic has now found a convincing solution for these kinds of clamping processes in work preparation (WP): the WorkBuddy. The WorkBuddy is an addition to the South German manufacturer’s clamping system.

Ergonomic and efficient set-up

The WorkBuddy was developed by Allmatic and has already been used successfully for a long time in the company’s own production for mechanical workpiece clamping. It is mounted on the machine or the set-up station with an easy-to-operate guiding arm. The central tool is an electric torque screwdriver, which is fully adjustable with torques of
20-40 Nm. Thanks to the Allmatic power assist in the tombstones, these torques are enough to achieve the maximum clamping forces (up to 80 kN depending on the type). All it takes is the light press of a rocker switch.
The exact clamping forces are applied once per vice model via a USB interface and called up during the clamping process. This ensures that each workpiece is fixed with the correct torque. All tombstones can currently be operated with Titan 2-/LC-/TC-/NC8- and DUO series spindles.

The maximum opening or clamping speed is 10 mm/s. This is defined by DIN EN 692 as the maximum permissible speed without additional measures for occupational safety. This guarantees short set-up times and minimum. At the same time, the WorkBuddy also relieves the strain on employees at the machine and enables ergonomic work.

 

More on WorkBuddy

ALLMATIC is shifting gears: a delivery time of just four weeks at the most thanks to intelligent planning

As automation moves in, tombstones are gaining ground. However, even so the number of companies that produce them is still relatively small. In most cases, the tombstone is still a special-purpose solutions that has to be custom-made to meet the specific needs of a given customer. This creates unpleasantly long delivery times. “Enough of that,” said clamping device specialists ALLMATIC who now offers a standardised tombstone portfolio for horizontal machining centres that is available for the customer to use in their production facilities within three to four weeks.

lt only takes three steps to click your way through the online navigator and in just a few minutes, you can put together your ideal tombstone, thanks to the new modular product range with a total of 57 available combinations. “Not only have we reduced delivery times, but we are also the only supplier already adding value when customers visit our website thanks to our innovative online configurator,” explains ALLMATIC CEO Herbert Mayr. For now, they are still a niche player in this segment. However, anyone who knows the name ALLMATIC, knows the high quality and service the Unterthingau team endeavours to provide for their customers.

“Standardizing tombstones propels automation,” says Mayr and thus he and his team are trail blazers. All variations of the ALLMATIC tombstones already meet future requirements thanks to their zero point clamping system. With the 3D data and other technical specifications customers can be sure that the solution they have chosen will match their workpieces and machining centres. The online configurator provides support during the selection process, but it cannot be compared to an online shop. “We wish to reduce the internal processing time, but first and foremost the delivery times for our customers. Being in touch with our customers personally remains high priority for us.” Nevertheless, thanks to the intelligent online tools, it will only take a few minutes, not a few days like before, for you can getan offer for your new tombstone.

At the launch of the configurator, ALLMATIC offers nine different spindles and numerous jaw combinations. This way, raw blanks can be machined using the GRIPP technology, as can rough­ machined workpieces with different clamping widths. Up to 2 workpieces can be clamped on either side; the number and positioning of the clamping sides are determined by each individual customer.

“We took our time to think this through and to develop a modular system with which we can beautifully cover most of the specifications.” What was the brilliant idea that the ALLMATIC developers came up with? This supplier has pre-machined workpieces available that only have to be adjusted to meet individual final specifications. Thus, the company that is based in the Allgäu region in southern Germany is less dependent on their own suppliers and can also offer shorter delivery times for the final product in this segment as well.

To tombstone configurator

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Find all current clamping systems and suitable accessories in the new product catalogue.

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