Robotic Laser Cutting System

Robotic Production Technology (RPT) introduced Robo-Lase, a new robotic laser cutting system, at its technical open house June 22-24. Partnering with Robot Technology based in Kleinostheim, Germany, the developer of the robotic laser cutting system, RPT is the exclusive provider of the system in the United States and Canada.

The engineering ingenuity of this robotic laser cutting product makes it truly unique in the marketplace. The laser takes the place of the upper arm (third axis) of an articulated arm robot. This design provides the opportunity to have a custom designed wrist which has only 2 axes. This system turns a six-axis robot into a five-axis robot, since the laser is taking the place of the third axis.

The customized wrist becomes axis four and five which both feature continuous rotation due to the absence of cabling. The wrist also allows for the maximum amount of laser power to the work piece because of the minimal external optics; four versus an external beam delivery system which requires 11 or 12 optics. With less external optics, the product is less complicated from a maintenance standpoint and more reliable. Prior to this system, the laser was external to the robot arm and the process had not been used as extensively. This new design makes robotic laser trimming a more viable process.

The robotic system can incorporate a variety of sealed CO2 lasers – from 100 watts up to 500 watts.

Robotic Production Technology is a turnkey robotic systems solutions provider. The company specializes in high path accurate trimming applications and also has process expertise in material dispensing, assembly, joining, material handling and welding.

For more information, contact Chuck Russo, Robotic Production Technologies, 1255 Harmon Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326, 248-829-2800, Fax: 248-829- 2750, E-mail: solutions@rpt.net, Web: www.rpt.net. SPE Booth #240.