Much more than a vision: autonomous machines at TRUMPF
We have laid the cornerstone for autonomous machines through numerous assistance systems. Progress is far from complete, and we are certain that the future belongs to autonomously working machines. They monitor and regulate the machining process, enabling a smooth production process. The operator is unburdened, and their role changes to that of a process manager. This collaboration between human and machine achieves optimal results.
5 stages to autonomous machines
Operator involvement is at a maximum. All tasks are completed by the operator.
The machine supports the operator with selected tasks. The operator is primarily located around the machine.
The matchine regulates the cut mostly on its own. Generally the operator has only to be by the machine at predictable points in time.
The machine prevents interruptions by self-optimization. The operator is informed about necessary interventions in advance.
The machine reacts independantly to all interruptions in the production process. Operator involvement is kept to a minimum, the focus is on machine maintenance.
Our vision is clearly defined. We have our sights set on developing machines which operate autonomously. With the new Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control and the TruLaser Center 7030 full-service laser machine, we have crossed the threshold to the third stage on the scale. The fifth stage is a fully autonomous machine. When it comes to classification, the following parameters are especially taken into account for location determination: proportion of manual monitoring and operator involvement at the machine. The focus lies on a machine's ability to recognise, prevent and resolve malfunctions independently – without human intervention. Our vision is for the operator to have a central role involving having control and managing the process.
Curious about the future of laser processing?
What does autonomous laser cutting mean for your parts production? What benefits are there to you? Our 2D laser cutting experts would be happy to answer these as well as other questions.