Automated Loading Options__Robot Load System.
The Drake robot load system for grinders features an adjustable infeed conveyor and grippers designed by Drake for maximum flexibility. The entire grinding and load/unload process is programmed into the machine control by Drake. The system provides consistent handling and maximum throughput for increased productivity.

Changeovers are accomplished in minutes because robot cycles are coordinated
with the CNC programs. The robot load system is pre-programmed to automatically respond to part dimension changes. When new part information is entered into the menu during changeover, the robot is automatically reprogrammed for the part being presented.

Changes in part lengths are handled by simple conveyor width and headstock position adjustments.

Conveyor System
The Drake Automatic Conveyor System features two servo motor/linear guideway systems for fast, accurate positioning. The first system raises the conveyor up and down; the second moves the conveyor in and out. A third servo motor indexes the conveyor.

The system was designed and built by Drake to bring smooth, consistent and automatic part handling to virtually any grinding operation.

Carousel System
The Drake-designed, auto loading part carousel is fully pre-programmed to work with all hobber operations.

The safety light and height beam on the right side of the carousel serve as a safety device to detect misloaded parts and shut down the part carousel immediately, allowing the machining of the part aheadto proceed until completed.

All steps were programmed into the Fanuc controls by Drake. The programming also includes a part clamp check for detecting overtravel or undertravel in the operation.