Jenoptik presents laser system for precise 3D metal processing

By Niraj M Wanikar, Chief Editor, CNCTimes.com, 2014-09-20 11:27:34

From next month, Jenoptik’s Lasers & Material Processing division will present the laser system JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM for cutting and welding of metals. The robot-based laser machine JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM (Beam in Motion) provides industrial manufacturers with a highly flexible, fast and cost-effective solution for the processing of metals. Various companies from the automotive industry, for example, where this Jenoptik technology has already been qualified, rely on it.

The heart of the JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM laser cutting system is a laser robot arm in which the laser beam delivery is fully integrated. The laser beam is coupled in through the robot foot so that the transport fiber does not need to be moved within the working space. In this way, not only the costs of maintenance and renewal are minimised, but the system itself is minimised as well. The small laser cutting head that weighs only five kilograms can easily access even the narrowest areas. This is the only way to achieve the high path accuracy and the very high level of system dynamics necessary for 3D processing. With a repeat accuracy of ±50 µm this laser machine by Jenoptik ranks among the most precise systems of its class. Moreover, the axis movements of the Jenoptik laser arm are up to 60 percent faster than the current standards, thus allowing for a significantly shorter cycle time compared to other robot systems.

One key objective in the continuous further development of the JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM is to increase capacity while minimising the size of the machine at the same time. The aim is to simplify its integration into production lines or combined processing units such as cutting/welding systems.

The JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM components have a modular structure so that they can be arranged within the space flexibly to suit the processing task. As an alternative, they can also be mounted on a platform measuring about 12 m² and accommodating the robot, the laser, the switch cabinet and a turntable that supports maneuverable sequences and continuous cutting. Hence, the JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM can be transported and positioned easily using a forklift truck which helps to minimise installation time.

In order to achieve an optimal result for a variety of applications, Jenoptik also offers more system variants in addition to the compact JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM individual plant. These variants are based on the BIM robot module that has an open interface for integration into an overall plant concept. Possible variants are a system with a feeding robot conveniently holding a 3D-shaped tube or other part in front of the processing robot, or a multi-robot system. In this way, it is possible to set up a highly productive processing system comprising several robots and using minimum space, where the robots can work on a part simultaneously, thus providing maximum flexibility and enhancing performance.

The JENOPTIK-VOTAN® BIM laser machine is primarily used in the automotive industry to cut highly complex 3D car body parts and structural parts as well as hydroformed tubes, e.g. for exhaust systems, precisely and quickly. In addition, manufacturers can benefit greatly from the dynamic capability of the machine which facilitates the laser-based cutting of contours and functional holes in so-called white goods, in tanks and containers.

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