Development of a tool changing robot for a computer numerically controlled milling machine
Date
2014-03-25
Authors
Read, Craig David
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Abstract
The Industrial Engineering department at the University o f the Witwatcrsrand is
currently developing a Flexible Manufacturing Cell (FMC) for local application.
One o f the components o f this FMC is a Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC)
Milling Machine, for which a tool change robot was designed and built in 1991.
The project was never completed and over the years the condition o f the robot
deteriorated and parts o f the control system were damaged or lost.
This report documents the redevelopment o f the tool change robot. The control
system has been modified and suitable replacement components incorporated into
the design. An external interface with the CNC M illing Machine has been
developed, and the software has been completely rewritten in a modular manner
for increased functionality. In its current state, the Robot is capable performing an
automated tool change.