Parts Feeder allows for feeding multiple parts concurrently.
Press Release Summary:
Utilizing vibratory bowl feeder, backlit target stage, and machine vision technology, RFS-1000 vibrating parts feeder system can feed unlimited numbers of non-uniform parts within certain size range. System also allows for running dissimilar parts back to back without having to clean feeder.
Original Press Release:
Rixan Introduces Unique, Flexible Parts Feeder System
(Dayton Ohio February, 2009) - Rixan Associates, Inc. a Dayton, Ohio (USA) based robotic and automation system provider has recently introduced a unique vision enabled, vibrating parts feeder system. The system utilizes a modified vibratory bowl feeder, a backlit target stage, and machine vision technology to replace traditional channels and guides. This allows the feeding of an unlimited numbers of parts within a certain size range from the same feeder.
According to Stephen Harris, President of Rixan Associates, vibratory bowl feeders on the market are adequate for handling a single family of very similar parts. Handling a large number of different parts becomes a far more complex challenge. The patent pending Rixan RFS-1000 allows many non-uniform parts to feed from one feeder thereby significantly reducing capital equipment costs. It is also possible to feed multiple parts concurrently from the same feeder, or run dissimilar parts back to back without having to clean the feeder.
"With recent improvements in the speed, accuracy and reliability of visions systems, our engineering group determined it was possible to use machine vision to replace channels and guides to deliver a flexible vibratory bowl feeder" stated Harris.
"The feeder can then be coupled to a robot to eliminate the tedious job of loading machine presses and machine tools. When used in this manner, we are seeing up to 20% improvement in throughput due to system efficiency. Besides the obvious savings in capital equipment, the RFS-1000 and robot provides a large safety improvement." Harris added.
Systems have been installed in Europe and North America with outstanding results and documented productivity improvements.
Established in 1959, Rixan is a leader in the field of robotics and automation, serving multiple industries.
