A cobot for grinding: Cecchi Srl innovates production

Cecchi Srl, a company specializing in the production of custom springs and metal small parts (compression springs, extension springs, torsion springs, shaped strip springs, wire parts, small metal parts, and shaped components), has recently integrated a cobot into its production line.

A tailor-made integration: mechanics and software working together

To integrate the cobot, Cecchi Srl developed a customized solution by combining its technical expertise with in-house IT capabilities. The engineering team designed the mechanical components, including guides, support structures, and the grinding system, while the IT department created the software to control both the cobot and the spring feeder.

The integration required:

• a fixed base to ensure the cobot’s stability;
• an external feeder that uses vibrations and compressed air jets to align the springs uniformly, allowing the robotic arm to pick them up efficiently;
• an additional module on the grinding side, simplifying the insertion of springs into the grinding disc.

Automation and control: the software role

The cobot is equipped with custom software that manages the arm’s movements and controls the feeder’s operation. It also allows operators to start or stop the process using an external control panel. The engineering team worked closely with the IT department to test and optimize the system, ensuring seamless and efficient integration.

Watch the cobot in action:

Tangible benefits: reduced cycle times and increased productivity

The introduction of the cobot has led to significant improvements:

• reduced production times by eliminating the need for manual spring loading into the perforated grinding disc;
• increased productivity, as a single operator can now manage two machines simultaneously;
• continuous operation, thanks to the feeder maintaining a steady flow of springs, minimizing interruptions;
• operator support, freeing workers from highly repetitive tasks.

Moving toward greater flexibility

While the current system is designed for a single product with an annual output of approximately 250,000 pieces, Cecchi Srl is already exploring new solutions to enhance flexibility. One idea in development involves integrating a camera that detects correctly positioned springs and, if necessary, triggers a vibration to automatically realign them.

Additionally, by collaborating with leading brands in pneumatic accessories, the company can leverage in-house components and the expertise of its technical team to further optimize the system.

With this innovation, Cecchi Srl continues to enhance the efficiency of its production processes, ensuring quality and reliability in the manufacturing of springs and small metal parts for the industrial sector.