Redefining Efficiency with Modular and Intelligent Automation
With a clear focus on efficiency, flexibility and integration, ENGEL is presenting comprehensive automation solutions at K 2025. A central highlight is the new generation of viper linear robots, which can be flexibly configured using modular axis profiles to suit different reach requirements – reducing investment costs, shortening delivery times and increasing manufacturing adaptability. In an “Automation Expert Corner” and across several fully automated production cells, ENGEL demonstrates how even highly complex automation tasks can be seamlessly integrated into injection moulding production. All components – from the injection moulding machine to peripheral devices – come from a single source, are perfectly coordinated and are operated centrally via the uniform CC300 control system. This maximises efficiency, productivity and reliability in day-to-day production.
ENGEL offers a broad automation portfolio and customised turnkey solutions that help increase productivity, reduce footprint and cut costs. The close integration of all systems ensures transparency in operation and allows for easy scalability – even when requirements change or a new product portfolio is introduced.
A central focus of the Automation Expert Corner is the new generation of even more flexible ENGEL viper linear robots. Based on specific customer requirements, the viper 20, 40 and 60 models have been further developed with a modular design. Many applications today no longer demand maximum payload alone, but increased reach. Instead of replacing the entire robot, individual axes can now be adapted as needed. The new axis profiles allow for flexible combinations of payloads and axis lengths. In addition to greater flexibility, this also reduces investment costs and shortens delivery times.
In addition to increased flexibility, the new generation of viper linear robots also reduces overall height in tandem configurations. This is made possible by a new energy chain routing concept. At the same time, the drive technology has been upgraded to decentralised controllers on the wrist axes, which now operate energy-efficiently at 48 V. This reduces cabling requirements and simplifies retrofitting. The new generation of viper linear robots will also be demonstrated in action on two machine exhibits.
In the Expert Corner, ENGEL showcases a compact demonstration cell featuring a next-generation viper 20 equipped with a reinforced Z-axis. This setup highlights both the new modularity of the robot and its high dynamic performance. The linear robot is supported by the iQ motion control digital assistance system, which intelligently optimises movement sequences for the shortest possible cycle time while also reducing programming effort.
The same cell also features the premiere of a new multi-level box transfer system with belt conveyor technology. It enables fast, low-vibration box changes even with higher payloads. By using belts instead of rollers on the outfeed conveyor, shocks within the conveying system are avoided – a key advantage for sensitive or dimensionally stable plastic parts. The box transfer system is modularly expandable in terms of capacity. Its control is fully integrated into the CC300 machine control unit, ensuring particularly user-friendly operation.
The showcased application uses two cavities mounted on a rotary table within a demo clamping unit. The viper linear robot performs a variety of handling tasks – from placing parts into boxes and pallets to high-speed part removal. To achieve this, the robot is equipped with a newly developed, ultra-compact combination wrist axis designed specifically for handling in confined spaces. This automation setup clearly demonstrates how high cycle rates, part diversity, and space-saving layouts can be effectively combined.
ENGEL is also showcasing its automation expertise at several other stations throughout the exhibition stand. easix six-axis robots handle a variety of tasks – from manipulating delicate components and transferring parts to testing systems, to accurately loading assembly fixtures. With their high manoeuvrability, compact design and deep integration into the machine control system, they are ideally suited for complex workflows and confined spaces. A wide selection of gripper systems and fully flexible programming further expand the possibilities for custom automation solutions.
ENGEL’s automation portfolio offers a fully integrated concept – from simple part removal to fully networked, highly integrated production cells. Customers benefit from improved system utilisation, reduced operating costs, and future-proof production lines that can quickly adapt to changing demands.
https://www.engelglobal.com/en/home
#engelglobal#FlexibleAutomation#SmartManufacturing#AutomationSolutions
#modernbusinessindia#printpublication#printmagazine#modernbusinessafrica
