Development of On-The-Machine Robotic Mold-Maintenance System by Utilizing Electro Discharge Deposition Technology

Abstract Maintenance of mold in a regular schedule has emerged as powerful platforms for quality assurance of the product. One of the greatest challenges is it may cause a dangerous situation for workers in the process of repairing mold using manual operation. This study set out to investigate the usefulness of a robotic system based on the on-the-machine repair of the worn mold without detaching and attaching the mold. Specifically, an electrodeposition applicator for repairing is attached to the hand of the work conveying robot which is installed near the machine tool. This study employed a vertical articulated robot, which is equipped with various sensors. Fundamental electrodeposition experiments were performed using the constructed robot system. The results from the experiments showed the feasibility of the developed system.