MENOMONEE FALLS, Wis., Aug. 13, 2024 – Representing a leap forward in programming, UNISIG’s next-generation operating system further improves the human-robot interface and slashes programming times.

The new operating system, featured on UNISIG’s UNE6-2i-750-CR small-diameter gundrilling machine, streamlines the setup of dozens of different part handling combinations to reduce new part setup times by 80% or more. The system significantly improves the communication between the machine’s human machine interface (HMI) and the robotic controller. This enables centralized data storage or a single source of truth -– the coding and data for the gundrilling operation and the program for the part handling are stored together for ease of recall.

Because it works within a parametric programming environment, the new operating system automatically adjusts its parameters to any dimensional part changes, without the need to manually calculate and enter in new parameters. Such intelligence eliminates the need to start over and create entirely new and independent programs, while greatly simplifying and shortening programming times for part families.

The UNE6-2i-750-CR gundrilling machine with integrated robot ships with a handheld programming console/teach pendant connected to the machine. Prior to the use of parametric programming, all part handling operations were pre-programmed using the pendant.  Users can now enter and store all machine and robotic parameters in the machine HMI. This allows for a more centralized user experience and greatly reduces the depth of robotic experience required.

The machine HMI has built-in parametric selection guides, allowing users to toggle between data entry and the programming guides. Each data value, and its function, are graphically displayed in the on-screen programming guide. This prevents the guide from being misplaced and makes it available at all times, which is especially advantageous when periodically adding new parts involving large time gaps between them.

The UNE6-2i-750-CR with integrated robotic automation also features interchangeable part trays. The robot services both the machine’s spindles and accommodates drilling of different diameters from each end. The optional lantern chuck system on this machine model allows workpiece loading into the rear of an automatic collet chuck to ensure accurate workholding, especially for uniquely shaped workpieces.

UNISIG’s UNE6 Series of precision gundrilling machines generate holes from 0.8mm to 6.0mm (0.03” to 0.24”) in even the most challenging of materials. Such capability makes the machines well suited for a wide range of applications, including medical part manufacturing.