How to Maximize Sorting Flexibility for Unloading Laser Cut Parts

The ByTrans Cross automation system for loading and unloading laser cutting systems from Bystronic Inc. (Elgin, IL) uses expandable modules to accommodate future business needs of the user. Building on this modular efficiency is the newly developed BySort upgrade, an add-on automation segment for processing large series of individually-cut parts that need to be unloaded and sorted separately according to their unique jobs. Both BySort and the ByTrans Cross are conveniently operated from an easy-to-use ByVision Cutting user interface on the touch screen of the laser cutting system. The BySort add-on creates an even more versatile ByTrans Cross unloading solution: An additional bridge is installed on the ByTrans Cross to accommodate up to two sorting heads that are automatically tooled using the available gripper modules. BySort deposits completed parts onto an additional unloading position next to the laser cutting system, providing an even higher degree of flexibility in processing large amounts of individual parts that must be unloaded and sorted separately by job.

The accurate repetition used by BySort to deposit and sort the individual parts is a competitive advantage, particularly with large cut parts that are difficult to handle manually. Accurate positioning of parts on pallets facilitates the automation of downstream processes by allowing precise position detection of the parts for further processing. BySort also increases the speed of the entire unloading process through the efficient design of the system unloading routes: First, BySort unloads and sorts the cut parts. Then, using a different route, the ByTrans unloads the residual sheet to ensure that the laser cutting system’s shuttle table is more quickly available for loading of the next sheet, which the ByTrans Cross fetches from its own stock or from the connected warehouse. Both BySort and the ByTrans Cross are controlled with the ByVision Cutting user interface that integrates all of the cutting processes with the connected automation system and closely interlinks laser cutting with the automated material feeding and removal process.

No user should waste time, walk long distances and carry out unnecessary procedures just because the laser cutting system and its connected automation system must be operated using separate terminals. After all, automation also means convenience for the operator.

Bystronic Inc., 200 Airport Road, Elgin, IL 60123, 847-214-0300, [email protected], www.bystronicusa.com.