1) What are the recent advances? robotics and automation Is it because metal cutting technology has the most transformative impact on efficiency and precision?
Zimmer Group has made significant contributions to the advancement of automation in robotics and metal cutting technology, particularly through innovative gripper systems and handling solutions. One of the most influential innovations was Jimmo Mobile robot cell. This flexible, configurable cell combines a moving table, cobot, and end effector, allowing for quick setup and versatile use in a variety of applications. Modular design facilitates integration into existing production lines, increasing adaptability and efficiency.
Additionally, Zimmer Group excels in designing and manufacturing custom grippers to handle unique workpiece geometries and materials. This includes specialized grippers for sensitive components, heavy loads, and difficult gripping situations.
2) How is the industry adapting to sustainable manufacturing practices and what specific initiatives are helping to reduce its environmental impact?
The machine tool industry is actively adapting to sustainable manufacturing practices. Zimmer Group plays a key role in these efforts as a leading provider of grip and handling solutions. Some of the notable contributions are:
Energy efficient gripper: We develop energy-efficient grippers that minimize energy consumption during operation.
Lightweight design: Designing a lightweight gripper reduces the energy required for movement and manipulation, optimizing robot sizing.
Long component life: We manufacture durable, long-lasting components to minimize the need for replacement and reduce waste. Most of the grippers we supply have a life cycle of 10 million cycles.
3) As digitization reshapes manufacturing, what new skills are essential for today’s workforce and how is the industry addressing the skills gap?
Digitalization improves quality control, significantly increases efficiency and produces better products. When it comes to robotic solutions, the market is currently in constant motion, especially in the area of lightweight robots. More and more manufacturers and models are enriching the field of automation with robot models capable of a huge variety of tasks, and the interfaces are as diverse as the variations of the robots themselves.
One of the most important parameters determining the success of automation and robotics implementation is the ease of implementation of automation. As Industry 4.0 gains momentum, Zimmer-Group recognized this challenge early on and was an industry pioneer with the introduction of mechatronic grippers based on the IO-Link standard as early as 2013. PrepBox for parameter assignment, testing, and service followed in 2016, and just one year later, a multifunctional, omnicommunications end-of-arm layer model was introduced as a technology prototype. We believe that developing user-friendly products inherently closes the skills gap and ensures seamless integration of automation solutions.
4) What trends are there? robotics and automation How do you expect the industry to adapt to these trends that are driving the current demand for metal cutting solutions?
At Zimmer Group, we are at the forefront of these trends and are contributing significantly to advances in robotics and automation in metal cutting solutions.
Innovative arm tip tool: Zimmer Group offers a wide range of end-of-arm products optimized for robotic applications. Our multifunctional drill heads and fitting units increase productivity and flexibility in various industries such as mechanical engineering, electronics, etc.
Grippers for collaborative robots (cobots): We provide solutions for human-robot collaboration, enabling safer and more efficient production processes. Our intuitive software and adaptable gripper ensure easy commissioning and quick adaptation to different tasks.
Customized automation solution: Zimmer Group designs and implements complete production and assembly cells with maximum flexibility. Our scalable transport modules and independently controlled shuttles eliminate the need for fixed conveyor belts and enable agile, dynamic transport.
Global knowledge sharing: With our new production facility in Pune, India, we will support local talent development and facilitate global knowledge sharing. The facility includes state-of-the-art training and demonstration areas that foster innovation and collaboration.
By embracing these trends and contributing to advances in robotics and automation, Zimmer Group is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for smart implementation of automation and robotic solutions for metal cutting solutions and move the industry forward.
5) What do you think is the most important challenge facing the metal cutting industry today? For deploying robotics and automation solutionsand what steps is your organization taking to remain competitive?
Developing modular and flexible solutions: We focus on developing modular and flexible automation solutions that can be easily adapted to different production needs and integrated into existing systems.
Identifying the exact activities to automate: One of the important outcomes of automation is that it complements human labor. Activities that require high speed and accuracy and are repetitive in nature require automation.
Cost and ROI: Although the initial cost of automation can be high, robots and automated systems reduce operating costs and material waste in the long run. By optimizing resource usage and minimizing human error, companies can achieve more efficient production lines and reduce overall manufacturing costs.
Electronic version of the magazine – https://www.machineinsider.com/dynamic-manufacturing-india-jan-feb-2025-edition/
