Tool changing system with space-saving concept

The new Terminal tool changing system from Wassermann adapts to existing machine tools. The space-saving concept offers a high tool density.

The family-owned company Wassermann Technologie is presenting its new changing systems for tools and workpieces, whose space-saving concept enables a high tool density. The new terminal series adapts to existing machine tools in terms of connection and transfer handling. They can also be integrated into new machines from well-known OEMs as original equipment.

“For us, automation means developing and manufacturing individual, high-quality systems for tool and workpiece handling in and on machine tools,” emphasizes Sebastian Wassermann, Managing Director and shareholder of Wassermann Technologie GmbH. The manufacturer’s new changing systems are available for tools, workpieces and pallets alike.

The tool changer offers space for up to 552 tools in a very small space. A unique space-saving concept consisting of three nested drums enables a previously unattainable tool density. Tools up to HSK 100 and up to a maximum weight of 35 kg can be stored. The largest version, the Tool-D with three drums, has a footprint of just over 5 m². The smaller S-magazines as round racks require less than 1 m². The tools are handled by a linear unit with an integrated double gripper. This takes care of placing the tools in the magazine as well as placing them in a tool buffer or in a machine-side tool magazine. The terminal can work as a direct magazine or as an additional magazine with or without its own control. It can also be used as a supply and central magazine for tools. Wassermann Technologie has applied for a patent for the specially developed system.

The manufacturer covers the entire value chain of design, production, assembly, logistics and service for the terminal itself. This means that not only the magazine and double gripper are manufactured in-house, but also the multi-axis handling, the robot solution and the connection to the machine. This can be implemented so flexibly that existing machines can also be easily upgraded. “The combination of magazine and customer-specific connection with this level of precision in the smallest of spaces is certainly hard to beat,” says Sebastian Auth from Sales Automation at Wassermann Technologie. “If customers also use our pallet changers, nothing stands in the way of fully automated and unmanned production,” promises Auth. The pallet storage systems for workpieces and pallets are now also available as the Work series in six architectures. All automation solutions are suitable for machine operators as well as machine manufacturers and automation specialists. Thanks to a flexible modular system, Wassermann Technologie can respond to individual customer requirements.