CINCINNATI EZ BEND™: Bringing Automation to the Shop Floor Through Collaborative Robotic Technology

For decades technology in the form of automation has been the sole domain of large global manufacturing enterprises. Today, CINCINNATI Incorporated is changing the game by making automation more accessible for many small to mid-size manufacturers.

With a 125-year tradition of quality and innovation, CINCINNATI has shipped well over 50,000 machines to manufacturers around the world. From metal cutting to 3D printing, the built-to-order machine tool manufacturer provides a wide range of machines, controls, and software. Today the company continues to bridge the gap with practical applications of leading technology.

Press Brake Innovation

One area in which the company has forged an industry-leading expertise is metal forming. CINCINNATI stands at the forefront of press brake innovation, demonstrating visionary leadership in metal forming technology.

Pioneering cutting-edge solutions, the company continually redefines industry standards, delivering precision, efficiency, and versatility. A commitment to innovation cements CINCINNATI’s position as a trailblazer, shaping the future of metal fabrication.

And today, through the application of advanced collaborative robotic (cobot) technology, CINCINNATI is putting automation into the hands of more manufacturers.

EZ BEND

With automation top of mind for many smaller manufacturers, the cost of entry can be high. By incorporating cobot technology into its line of press brakes, CINCINNATI is boosting shop floor efficiency while offering a cost-effective solution for manufacturers seeking to enhance metal forming capabilities without added equipment or resources.

CINCINNATI’s EZ BEND advances the effectiveness of press brake machinery and its operator. Designed to automate repetitive tasks, the solution allows operators to focus on more complex responsibilities. What’s more, EZ BEND accelerates production and boosts efficiency by empowering operators to run multiple press brake applications simultaneously. EZ BEND can even support lights-out operations.

EZ BEND automates the bending process to simplify production workflow, saving time and optimizing resources. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to learn and operate, ensuring a smooth and efficient operation for a wide range of bending tasks.

Whether it’s adapting to changing production needs or streamlining operations, EZ BEND provides the flexibility and convenience needed to meet the rising demands of today’s manufacturing industry.

• Effortlessly place metal parts inside the press brake for precise bending within designated allowances.
• Boost productivity and workflow efficiency.
• Alleviate physical strain by handling heavy materials and performing repetitive bending tasks.
• Consistently execute critical bending processes, minimize errors, and reduce material waste.
• Address labor shortages by augmenting workforce capabilities, ensuring continuous operation even in demanding production schedules.
• Improve efficiency by optimizing cycle times and setup processes, leading to higher throughput and cost savings.
• Create a safer, more productive, and streamlined manufacturing environment.

Built upon low-code programming, EZ BEND eases the transition to automation allowing manufacturers to incorporate bending automation easily and at a comfortable price point. What’s more, users don’t need to be an engineer or master programmer to begin taking advantage of EZ BEND automation.

Key Features

• Adaptable: Compatible with a wide range of CINCINNATI press brakes*, EZ BEND can be easily integrated into your manufacturing environment. This flexibility eliminates the need for added equipment investments ensuring that you can take advantage of the benefits of EZ BEND, regardless of the specific type of CINCINNATI press brake you have in your facility. Because EZ BEND is portable, it can be moved between CINCINNATI press brake machines or stored when not in use.
• Simple Programming: EZ BEND’s highly intuitive programming interface eliminates the need for complex coding or advanced skills. With easy-to-follow steps and user-friendly interface, EZ BEND can be programmed with minimal training. Programmers with press brake experience can easily program and operate the machine, eliminating the need for a mechanical engineer proficient in manipulating 3D models.
• Double Blank Detection: Before making the initial bend on each part, EZ BEND utilizes a double-blank detector to confirm that only a single piece has been picked up from the inbound stack. This built-in verification step offers the quality assurance needed to run your press brake operations.
• Pneumatic Part Gripper: EZ BEND is equipped with interchangeable pneumatic/magnetic suction grips designed specifically for handling various metals. These suction cups ensure secure yet gentle handling of your materials, eliminating the risk of marking or damaging the parts.
• Guarding System: Optical scanners guard the EZ BEND work area. Without physical barriers, you’ll have free access to the equipment. When a person breaches the perimeter of the work zone the robotic arm slows down. If the person backs away, the system returns to normal speed.
• Multitasking: EZ BEND allows a single operator to tend to multiple presses simultaneously, maximizing the efficiency of the production process. This enables the operator flexibility during production.
• Safety: Traditional press brake operations often require operators to position their hands close to the bending area. Using EZ BEND can greatly reduce the risks of working near the dies.
• Extended Operation: Operators have the flexibility to set up and run the machine during off-shift hours or over the weekend. This increases productivity and efficiency as the machine can continue operation even outside regular working hours.
• Automation: EZ BEND allows for automation without permanently tying up your press brake with physical barriers. You can easily switch back to manual operation at any time without extensive modifications to your setup.

Product Specifications

With a reach of 68.9 inches, EZ BEND is capable of lifting and moving parts weighing as much as 44.1 pounds. The 6 rotating joints of the robotic arm provide a wide range of motion allowing configuration in even confined spaces. And EZ BEND programming includes a 12-inch touchscreen with a PolyScope graphical interface.

Putting Technology to Work

Call it Smart Manufacturing, Industry 4.0, or the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), automation is revolutionizing manufacturing. Today, this technology has become increasingly accessible to smaller manufacturers, leveling the playing field in the industrial landscape. Advancements like cloud computing, scalable software solutions, and robotics empower manufacturers of all sizes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and compete globally.

Through affordable innovations such as its EZ BEND solution, CINCINNATI is turning press brake operations into a competitive advantage for a growing number of small to mid-size manufacturers.

View EZ Bend

www.e-ci.com

About CINCINNATI, Incorporated
CINCINNATI Incorporated is a leading U.S.-based, build-to-order machine tool manufacturer with over 125 years in the industry. Our engineering and manufacturing expertise makes us the ideal partner for companies building innovative products that demand extraordinary durability, stability, and industry-leading features.

Within our state-of-the-art, Ohio-based facility, we develop and build custom software, dependable laser cutting systems and automation equipment as well as metal fabrication equipment, including press brakes, shears, and PM presses. Our extensive knowledge puts us in a unique position to help you drive efficiency in your manufacturing process no matter how simple or complex.