Operator involvement is at a maximum. All tasks are completed by the operator.
Autonomous laser cutting
The machine of the future cuts autonomously – we're sure of that. We also know who will benefit the most from it: you. This is because our future technology is aware. It looks ahead. Works almost on its own. With the person in control at all times. This is only possibly through the interplay between intelligent assistance systems, adaptive machine functions, and last but not least, ground-breaking ideas. Discover TRUMPF's vision for autonomous machines now, as well as our innovations which are already available now, and their potential for your sheet metal processing. Join us in the autonomous future.
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

1
1
2
The machine supports the operator with selected tasks. The operator is primarily located around the machine.
2
3
The matchine regulates the cut mostly on its own. Generally the operator has only to be by the machine at predictable points in time.
3
coming soon
4
The machine prevents interruptions by self-optimization. The operator is informed about necessary interventions in advance.
4
vision
5
The machine reacts independantly to all interruptions in the production process. Operator involvement is kept to a minimum, the focus is on machine maintenance.
5

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 recognize, 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.
Large strides forward: intelligent sensor systems increase productivity
One part of our vision is already a reality. Intelligent assistance systems for laser cutting develop execution strategies, for example, which prevent collision with tilting parts, or make post-producing of parts out of scrap skeletons easier. Even nozzles are automatically inspected and replaced if necessary. The proportion of machine functions which control processes independently is ever-increasing.
An important milestone on the path to autonomous machines is the newly developed Active Speed Control system for adaptive feed control. The system monitors the kerf through the nozzle, oversees the cutting process, and independently regulates feed speed. It ensures the right feed level for flame and fusion cutting, even in the event of thickness variations in a sheet, or if the sheet has been affected by quality fluctuations (i.e. rust or coating remnants). Data analysis makes quick and stable cutting possible. This can prevent disruptions to cutting, and noticeably reduces the number of reject parts. The operator is also relieved. They can pull up the most important process parameters or a live-image through the nozzle any time, and will be actively informed if the need for intervention arises. Tapeshots which were necessary up to this point are now a thing of the past.
Active Speed Control oversees the process, controls cutting

Comparison between laser cutting with and without feed control
Take a look behind the scenes
TRUMPF is a pioneer in the laser cutting industry. To ensure we remain so in the future, we research tirelessly, always on the boundary of technological possibilities. We have a clear vision on the path to autonomous machines: to make the work of operators easier, through simple and sophisticated operating concepts. Our solutions give them the ability to respond to potential malfunctions with ease. The focus is on cost-effectiveness, as compared to non-assisted processing, the part costs for autonomous processes are significantly lower.
Ready for the future – be prepared for anything with intelligent functions from TRUMPF
Assistance systems make life easier; they shorten and simplify many processes in laser cutting, as well as make them noticeably more reliable. This allows you to put your machines to optimal use, and minimize manual interventions. In addition to the newly developed Active Speed Control, TRUMPF also offers solutions for every process step in the form of intelligent functions. A compact selection of functions for autonomous laser cutting can be found here.
What do autonomous machines mean for your production?
The age of intelligent production is already underway. TRUMPF machines are increasingly independent in their operation; they analyze and regulate processes. With your help, malfunctions can be prevented, and productivity can be increased. Employees can already be supported and relieved during many operations even today. Laser cutting will also become easier and less stressful in the future. Interested in learning the advantages that integrating autonomous and partially autonomous technologies can bring to your 2D laser processing? Click on the green dots in the image to find out more.

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