Sumitomo launches first own-label robot series at Fakuma 2021

At Fakuma 2021, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery presents its first own-branded robot series solution. Based on two compact "handle&place" solutions, the new SAM-C (Sumitomo Demag. Automation. Machine - Cartesian) development will initially comprise four payload sizes - 3, 5, 10 and 20 kg - with the SAM platform expanding in phases over the next two years adding further robot kinematics and functional elements.

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag is expanding and strengthening its range of robotic solutions. The partnership with Sepro is being expanded internationally, and the range of robots is being significantly strengthened with the addition of the company's proprietary robots. Central components, such as the drives, are sourced from the Sumitomo Drive Technologies subsidiary - the Lafert Group in Italy.

The new SAM robots have been designed specifically for injection moulding machines with clamping force sizes between 50 and 500 tons, and for standard applications with cycle times of 10 seconds and higher. Customers benefit from process and system technology from a single supplier source, complete with hardware and software control integration of robot technology into the injection moulding unit and production-optimised robotic mechanics fully customised to Sumitomo (SHI) Demag machines.

With the IO-Link communication system, intelligent sensors and actuators can be connected to the automation system. This means the SAM series fully meets future Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing requirements. Additionally, the robots all incorporate the company’s "myConnect" web-based software solution. This central platform gives customers direct access to a wide range of fully networked support services, helping to better manage inefficiencies, reduce costs, optimise total cost of ownership, troubleshoot errors and minimise downtime.

Two "handle&place" solutions are showcased at Fakuma 2021. The SAM-C10 features on an LSR IntElect 130 ton LSR application. In the second exhibit, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag demonstrates the automation of In Mould Decoration (IMD) within an IntElect 220 ton production cell. The design of the vertical axis being the key differential design feature. For the IMD application height optimisation is achieved using a compact telescope axis.