Unisig Operating System Enhances Productivity for Small-Diameter Gundrilling Machines

Unisig’s next-generation operating system is designed to improve the human-robot interface and reduce programming times.

This custom operating system, featured on Unisig’s UNE6-2i-750-CR small-diameter gundrilling machine, can streamline the setup of dozens of different part handling combinations to reduce part setup times by 80% or more. The system has the ability to improve communication between the machine’s human-machine interface (HMI) and the robotic controller. This can enable centralized data storage or a single source of truth. The coding and data for the gundrilling operation, as well as the program for the part handling, are stored together for ease of recall. 

Due to its ability to work within a parametric programming environment, the operating system can automatically adjust its parameters to any dimensional part changes, without the need to manually calculate and enter in new parameters. This intelligence is said to eliminate the need to start over and create new and independent programs, while simplifying and shortening programming times for part families.

The UNE6-2i-750-CR gundrilling machine with integrated robot ships with a handheld programming console/teach pendant connected to the machine. Prior to the use of parametric programming, all part handling operations were pre-programmed using the pendant. Users can now enter and store all machine and robotic parameters in the machine HMI. This can enable a more centralized user experience and reduce the depth of robotic experience required.  

The machine HMI has built-in parametric selection guides, enabling users to toggle between data entry and the programming guides. Each data value and its function are graphically displayed in the on-screen programming guide. This can prevent the guide from being misplaced and make it available at all times, which is said to be advantageous when periodically adding new parts involving large time gaps between them.

The UNE6-2i-750-CR with integrated robotic automation also features interchangeable part trays. The robot services both the machine’s spindles and accommodates drilling of different diameters from each end. The optional lantern chuck system on this machine model enables workpiece loading into the rear of an automatic collet chuck for accurate workholding, especially for uniquely shaped workpieces. 

Unisig’s UNE6 Series of precision gundrilling machines generate holes from 0.8 mm-6.0 mm (0.03″-0.24″). Such capability makes the machines suitable for a range of applications, including medical part manufacturing.