Page 139 - Modular design for machine tools

Engineering Guides and Future Perspectives of Modular Design 99

It is furthermore worth stating that the system machine of Marwin
Production Machines make was a core entity in the cell for demonstrat-
ing the achievement of ESPRIT Project No. 955 CNMA (Communication
Network for Manufacturing Application) of EC.
A similar configuration can be observed in the cubiclike FMC of Steinel
make, although it is not sophisticated yet. In fact, Steinel Co. developed
the FMCs of modular design based on the MC of BZ type, which can be
characterized by its compact configuration and pallet pool integrated
with the work transfer function, as shown in Fig. 2-22 [31]. It is worth
suggesting that Steinel’s FMC originated with modular- configured MC
on the basis of the ASP Plan of the United Kingdom [32]. Based on sim-
ilar idea, Cincinnati Milacron produced the GC called “Total Production
Team” in 1984, which consisted of the universal grinding machine (type:
Cinternal 3) and gantry crane.
Afterward, the compactness of the machine prevailed, and from the
beginning of the 1980s, Tsugami has been producing the system
machine (MA type) shown together in Fig. 2-23 which is appraised by
a very good reputation, because it has the following characteristic
features.

Structural
body of MC

Pallet magazine

Workpiece
Table with
APC function
Figure 2-22 Cubiclike FMC of Steinel make (type BZ24FFZ).