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.

With enhanced customer service in mind, UNISIG, a global manufacturer of deep hole drilling machines, has commissioned two new SSI Schafer LOGIMAT® vertical lift modules (VLM) into its parts warehouse. Integrated with UNISIG’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, the 20-foot-tall, high-density storage units keep parts organized and optimize inventory tracking.

Touchscreen interfaces at the VLM modules allow personnel to add or remove inventory pieces, while the purchasing team can access real-time data and reports from their desktops. The module’s trays tilt toward the operator for improved ergonomics when reaching into bins located toward the back of the tray, and a laser highlights the correct bin or location of the part requested.

With 28 tons of inventory capacity in their tray systems, the VLMs exponentially increase UNISIG’s inventory storage capability. This, in turn, allows the company to provide the spare parts customers need as quickly as possible.

“We continue to seek out and identify areas in which we can improve efficiency as well as operational excellence at UNISIG, and this inventory system is a result of that,” said UNISIG CEO Anthony Fettig. “It also complements our commitment to having the inventory we need to serve our customers.”

The installation of the inventory warehouse VLMs is the most recent of several significant investments designed to add value to UNISIG’s customer offerings. Earlier this year the company unveiled its newly constructed 5,000-square-foot fabrication department.

Equipped with $1.5 million in state-of-the-art technology, the expansion supports the company’s strategy to develop in-house, design-to-finish production of high-quality sheet metal components used in UNISIG’s product line. By producing many of its parts in-house, the company will preserve and maintain component quality and quantity while optimizing the mix of parts that are made internally versus those that are outsourced for production.

MENOMONEE FALLS, Wis., June 28, 2023 – UNISIG, a global manufacturer of deep hole drilling machines, has invested $1.5 million in state-of-the-art technology and equipment for the company’s newly constructed 5,000-square-foot fabrication department.

The expansion supports the company’s strategy to develop in-house, design-to-finish production of high-quality sheet metal components used in UNISIG’s product line. By producing many of its parts in-house, the company can preserve and maintain the quality and quantity of its components while optimizing the mix of parts that are made internally versus those that are outsourced for production.

The investment includes the installation of fiber laser cutting equipment, and a 242-ton capacity press brake with a 7-axis programmable back gage, all of which utilizes 3D programming and simulation software. The software and training for the company’s workforce were part of the investment, along with the hiring of additional personnel.

The company’s new fabrication capabilities will also serve as an inspiration and catalyst for ongoing development and advances in machine design that will have an immediate impact on the value UNISIG brings to its customers now and in the future, said UNISIG CEO Anthony Fettig.

“The most exciting part of this investment from my view is the opportunity to fundamentally change how we think about the design of fabricated components,” Fettig said. “Our engineers will be inspired by the manufacturing innovations generated by the precision fabrication team and what we can do with these state-of-the-art production capabilities,” Fettig said.

UNISIG’s fabrication enhancements also include MIG and TIG welding with advanced digital process control and weld boom with power assist. A modular fixture system provides precision component setup from 3D models, while a vertical pallet system stores raw sheet material. To assist department personnel, vacuum sheet lifting equipment and updated bridge crane controls make for easy material handling.

Wide range of solutions ensures optimized deep hole drilling production

During EASTEC 2023, visitors to UNISIG booth 1117 will learn how automation takes deep hole drilling machine efficiency and productivity to new levels. Company experts will be on hand to discuss how engineered automation is routinely included in deep hole drilling machine cells and can be machine mounted or used to combine multiple machines or operations.

UNISIG is experienced in developing safe and effective standard automation that encompasses specialized solutions to fit the needs of particular production demands, applications or facilities – enabling shops to make the most of their UNISIG deep hole drilling machines. To accomplish this, the company engineers three types of automation solutions – those that are flexible, machine mounted or custom designed.

Flexible automation solutions are versatile features that can be integrated into the machine design, or designed independently, to automate the operation of a single machine, or combine multiple machines into an automated cell. Flexible automation encompasses robots, part-tray-handling conveyors, pallet changers and servo driven gantries.

Programmable smart conveyors and walking beam loading systems are two examples of UNISIG’s machine mounted automation solutions for part loading and handling. The company engineers these solutions into a machine’s design so that they function integrally with it.

For more extensive automation requirements, UNISIG will program and integrate custom automation such as pick-and-place systems, heavy bar loaders and bulk feeders into a deep hole drilling process. These custom-engineered solutions are optimized to fulfil a shop’s production, application, budget and facility requirements.