Okuma America Corp. is set to revolutionize the automation landscape with its latest offering, the Okuma Robot Leader (ORL) series. These robots are designed to streamline the process of loading and unloading workpieces from Okuma machines, thereby boosting productivity and operator efficiency. This move by the Charlotte, N.C.-based company aims to cater to machine shops of all sizes, providing a compact and integrative solution. The ORL series will make its debut at the IMTS 2024 in Chicago, marking a significant milestone for Okuma in the field of automation.
Compared to previous news, Okuma continues to innovate by expanding its product range. The company’s earlier launch of the Okuma App Store in 2014 and its well-established distribution and partner networks have laid the groundwork for this new series. While past announcements mostly focused on software and network expansions, the current development emphasizes hardware advancement, reflecting a broader strategy to integrate comprehensive automated solutions.
New Robots to Debut at IMTS
Okuma will showcase three new products at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) next month in Chicago. The ORL-D, a drawer-style unit, can store up to 92 workpieces with an optional template for 180 smaller workpieces. The ORL-R, a rotary disc-style unit, offers various template options that can hold up to 166 workpieces. The ORL-MC, designed for machining centers, can store up to 288 workpieces, employing patented MultiGrip workholding technology for high-mix, low-volume manufacturing.
Efficient Parts Handling Demonstration
Each ORL product has a compact footprint, taking up just 8 to 9 sq. ft. of floor space. They utilize FANUC industrial robot arms and grippers, capable of handling a payload of up to 25 lbs. Demonstrations will include the ORL-R working with the MULTUS B300II multitasking machine for loading and unloading parts, assisted by a collaborative robot that transfers parts from an autonomous mobile robot (AMR) cart into pallet drawers.
Additionally, the ORL-MC will be paired with a GENOS M560V0-5AX five-axis vertical machining center and an automatic tool changer (ATC) to load and unload demo parts. This unit will also switch the workholding in the machine based on the cutting operation needed, showcasing its versatile and automated capabilities.
The latest developments by Okuma signify a move towards more compact and efficient automation solutions, responding to market needs for versatility and space-saving designs. As Okuma prepares to unveil these robots at IMTS 2024, it reflects a growing trend in the manufacturing industry towards integrating advanced robotics to enhance productivity and operational efficiency.
