The Schröder Group has made its Advanced Handling System (AHS) an optional feature of the Evo Center and MAK 4 Evolution UD folding machines. The innovative system had previously been revised in order to demonstrate maximum precision even in continuous operation with heavy sheets. AHS can be integrated into further automation solutions with robot loading and unloading, which Schröder offers together with Starmatik.
AHS was previously only available as a customer-specific option for the MAK 4 Evolution UD. The fence technology with a suction plate turntable has been revised for even more reliable processes and shorter cycle times. The optimized turntable kinematics allow for more precise positioning, even with heavier workpieces weighing up to 236 kg. The more stable mechanics and control system are designed for continuous operation and the turntable can be scaled for different component sizes.
The smallest sheet format that the AHS can handle measures 360 × 360 mm, the largest 3700 × 1500 mm. The AHS includes a camera system for measuring the sheet metal contour, motorized referencing axes for positioning and an additional operating terminal on a rotating and height-adjustable column. The automatic system naturally comes with its own safety concept.
© Schröder Group
Functionality
AHS requires an up-and-down bending beam. The sheet is attached once to the referencing axis. The suction plate stop fixes the sheet and now positions it for the up and down bends on the previously attached side. The sheet is then automatically aligned with the turntable for the bends on the next side. The system represents the highest degree of automation that can be achieved without the use of robots and is suitable for unmanned shifts.
Additional stop option: Gripper
A further stop variant is now available for Evo Center and MAK 4 Evolution UD: the gripper stop. This was previously a feature of the Evo Heavy Duty, a folding machine that bends steel sheets up to 16 mm thick. The gripper stop is always useful when the suction plate stop does not work. This is the case with perforated sheets or when a long leg to be bent creates a leverage effect with very heavy sheets.
Background
The Schröder Group consists of Hans Schröder Maschinenbau GmbH based in Wessobrunn-Forst, Schröder-Fasti Technologie GmbH based in Wermelskirchen and SMU GmbH based in Leinburg-Weißenbrunn.
Founded in 1949, Hans Schröder Maschinenbau GmbH combines tradition and modernity in mechanical engineering: Successfully managed as a quality and customer-oriented family business, Hans Schröder Maschinenbau specializes in the development of modern machine concepts for bending and cutting sheet metal.
Thanks to the integration of Fasti-Werke in 2006 and its global presence, the Schröder Group is now a leading supplier of machines for folding, cutting, beading, flanging and round bending of all types of sheet metal. The variety of precision machines ranges from proven solutions for the trade to innovative high-performance machines for automatic industrial production. In 2021, the Schröder Group was expanded to include the tool manufacturer SMU GmbH. Today, the Schröder Group employs a total of more than 300 people at various locations in Germany and abroad.
