Automatic core unloading machine

The machine is used to unload trays containing mould cores from special ‘stacker’ trolleys onto the moulding line.

Description of operation

Once the trolley has docked with the machine, the trays containing the mould cores are picked up by a travelling module with two platforms. The trays are then transported to the core unloading area, where four operators empty the tray. Empty pallets are removed from the production line and returned to the transport trolley. Automatic unloading takes place in sequence from the lowest platform to the highest.

Machine design

STACKER DOCKING MODULE

The machine is equipped with a docking module. Once the trolley has been placed in the machine, the operator closes the gate restricting access to the interior of the unit. The shelf unit is pressed against the bumpers by two pneumatic cylinders.

LIFT

The main component of the station is the lift, on which the module with two platforms moves. Vertical movement is achieved via a SIEMENS servo drive. Each platform extends, enabling it to retrieve trays from the trolley. Both lift platforms can slide independently under the pallets. Pallets are stacked in the transport trolley to a height of 2 metres across 9 levels. The trays can move across the platforms via toothed belts driven by an electric motor. Another component of the lift is a counterweight, which serves to relieve the load on the servo drive.

TRANSPORT TABLE

The trays from the platform are transferred to a transport table that moves them onto the production line, where they are unloaded from the cores by operators.

OPERATOR PANEL

The control elements and display allow the process status to be monitored and the individual machine drives to be controlled.

SAFETY LEVEL

In accordance with the customer’s guidelines and in compliance with the requirements of the PN-EN ISO 12100 standard, the machine is equipped (depending on the type of process being carried out) with a range of technical safety measures such as: emergency stop buttons and mesh guards. The lift is fitted with a brake to prevent the module with the platforms from falling.

Benefits for the customer/user

• automatic, smooth and rapid unloading of 100kg trays from a high (2m) trolley, eliminating the need for manual labour;
• the ability to return empty trays to the trolley.