Robot-assisted lathe machine servicing

Abstract

This paper describes a simulation of an industrial robot-assisted lathe servicing process using ABB RobotStudio software. The objective of the simulation is to demonstrate how integrating a robot for material handling can improve productivity and ensure safer operation within a manufacturing environment. The first part of the paper outlines the procedure for importing 3D models of robots and the lathe into the simulation environment. Special focus is placed on defining the lathe's movable elements, such as its door, as well as a conveyor belt for moving finished parts outside the safety zone. Key operational parameters were established, including target positions for the robot (pick-up from the raw material storage, insertion into the chuck, and deposition onto the conveyor) and the robot's movement trajectory. Based on these, an optimized RAPID program was developed to control the robot and other moving components during the simulation. The final stage includes testing and visual evaluation of the entire process, confirming both the system's functionality and the robustness of the proposed automation solution.