An FMS fully automated flexible sheet metal processing line integrates sheet storage, automatic loading and unloading, laser cutting, part sorting, and robotic bending. With different workholding systems, material handling units, and storage configurations, the line can accommodate a range of sheet sizes and sheet metal processing tasks while reducing manual handling and repetitive operations.
Workholding and positioning technology
Vacuum suction cups and pneumatic clamping
FMS workholding systems can use vacuum suction cups and pneumatic clamping. The appropriate method depends on the workpiece dimensions, shape, and processing requirements. These technologies support different workholding and handling applications, allowing the system to be configured for different parts.
The source system information states a maximum workpiece weight of 200 kg. The actual workpiece size and weight limits must be confirmed against the suction cup arrangement, clamping mechanism, handling equipment, and tooling configuration.
Backgauge shaft sensor positioning
The backgauge shaft sensor positioning system helps detect and control the positions of the relevant positioning axes. Accurate positioning improves consistency and helps reduce processing errors and rejected parts caused by positioning deviations.
Positioning accuracy and repeatability depend on the sensor configuration, mechanical structure, control system, and equipment condition.
Automatic loading and unloading solutions
FMS can be configured with different loading and unloading systems according to the laser cutting machine, sheet specifications, and production cycle. Available arrangements include single beam gantry systems, double beam gantry systems, and integrated storage tower solutions.
Single beam gantry loading and unloading for laser cutting
A single beam gantry system works with a laser cutting machine to load sheet metal automatically, unload cut material, and separate finished parts from scrap according to the system configuration.
This arrangement reduces manual handling and repetitive loading tasks. It can improve material flow and reduce handling risks associated with manual operation. Compatibility with specific laser cutting machine models depends on the equipment interfaces, sheet dimensions, and handling mechanism design.
Double beam gantry loading and unloading for laser cutting
For projects with special layout or handling requirements, FMS can use a double beam gantry arrangement. Depending on the equipment configuration, a cantilever style loading and unloading system or a dedicated laser loading and unloading robot can also be used.
The system can automatically load sheets, unload cut material, and separate finished parts from scrap according to the configured workflow. The solution can be adapted to the laser cutting machine layout, sheet dimensions, and available floor space.
Integration with a sheet storage tower
When an FMS laser loading and unloading unit is combined with a sheet storage tower, material storage, automatic retrieval, laser cutting machine loading and unloading, and part and scrap separation can be linked into one workflow. Finished sheets can then be sorted and returned to storage according to the system configuration.
Optional functions include sheet thickness measurement and double sheet detection. These functions help identify material conditions and reduce the risk of incorrect loading. Their availability depends on the sensor configuration and control system.
Integration of laser cutting and robotic bending
An FMS line can connect an intelligent sheet storage tower, an automated laser loading and unloading system with part separation, a laser cutting machine with an exchange table, and a fully automated robotic bending machine.
With a suitable equipment layout, material flow, and production schedule, this configuration can reduce manual transfer between processes and support a highly automated sheet metal bending line. Continuous unattended operation depends on the line configuration, material management, fault handling arrangements, and safety systems.
Main features of an FMS flexible processing line
Automated production cycles
Automatic loading and unloading units can handle sheet transfer, machine loading, and finished part unloading, reducing repetitive operator involvement. When the equipment configuration, production tasks, and safety conditions are suitable, the system can run continuously according to its programmed workflow, improving machine utilization and production continuity.
Improved material storage and production scheduling
A storage unit configured for full stack loading and single sheet retrieval can manage material supply according to the production schedule and work with laser cutting and downstream equipment. Coordinated material handling helps reduce waiting time and improves the flow between operations.
Expandable multi machine integration
The modular FMS architecture allows multiple laser cutting machines and related automation equipment to be connected according to production requirements. The number of machines and the functions included can be planned around the factory layout, processing capacity, and production tasks.
Modular configuration and customized integration
FMS automation modules can be integrated with different laser cutting machine models according to project requirements. Workholding, loading and unloading units, storage modules, and control systems can be configured to suit specific products and production workflows.
A customized solution should account for sheet dimensions, weight, material type, machine interfaces, production cycle, and available floor space. Material handoffs and control logic must be compatible across the connected equipment.
Multi product production and unattended operation
For sheet metal manufacturing involving frequent product changes, FMS can use production scheduling and automated material management to handle different sheet specifications and processing tasks. With suitable storage, identification, handling, and safety systems, the line can operate automatically for extended periods under defined conditions.
Unattended operation depends on more than the loading and unloading equipment. Fault recovery, material replenishment, scrap removal, and exception handling must also be addressed.
Roller conveyor positioning and reduced edge finding time
A roller conveyor positioning system helps maintain the sheet position during transfer and can reduce the time required for edge finding and positioning before laser cutting. The actual improvement depends on sheet dimensions, conveyor design, positioning sensors, and the laser cutting machine control system.
The performance of an FMS flexible sheet metal processing line depends not only on its automation configuration but also on the machining accuracy and assembly quality of its tooling, roller shafts, mounting brackets, and other metal components. We provide single piece and small batch precision machining based on customer supplied drawings.
Hansheng Automation also provides custom precision machining for yacht structural components, remote controlled racing car parts, functional components for tobacco packaging machinery, and parts for filling machinery. The machining process is determined by the part drawings, material, and technical requirements.
