Efficiency Improved in Molding Auto Parts

Problem:

InteSeys Technologies, Inc, molds a wide range of parts for automotive applications as well as others.  InteSeys has been molding large, complex 100-pin connectors for a popular U.S.-made automobile for four years.  Before using a servo robot in this application, two operators were required to load six- to eight inserts, totaling 25 pounds, into one-half of the mold, then remove the part from the other half and place it on a conveyor.  Although the ideal cycle time was 40 seconds, the manual operations often pushed cycles to 50 seconds or more.  This not only decreased machine output, but sometimes resulted in unacceptable degradation of the plastic.

Solution:

Now with a Yushin servo robot, inserts are loaded and parts are removed automatically, and the cycle times are consistently 40 seconds. 

InteSeys uses different sets of grippers on the two-sided EOAT to securely place the inserts and remove the parts.  A combination of position sensors on the grippers, vacuum cups with pressure transducers, and photoelectric eyes are used to verify that inserts are properly placed and that the parts are completely removed.  These measures contribute to product yields and eliminate the heavy downtime and expense that would result if the press cycled without an insert in place, or with a part still in the mold.  Bottom line?  Significantly improved productivity and yields.