Unit E2, Doulton Road Trading Estate, Rowley Regis, West Midlands, B65 8JQ
Tel: 01384 633 968

The AutoSprint E - Programme control for rapid set-up

Plugboard

The diode pin plugboard through which the manual set-up is converted to a sequential programme allows an amazing versatility of automatic operation. On switching to the automatic cycle the first complete left hand vertical line of sockets (column 1 of the Plugboard) is simultaneously energised.

By the insertion of a diode pin in the required socket, the selected function will take place. By placing several diode pins in different motion sockets, but in the same column, many functions can take place simultaneously, such as the cross slides and turret operating together.

At the end of each main function or slide travel, providing a diode pin has been inserted in the correct signal socket, the operation of a limit switch will energise column two. As column 2 is energised, a supply from this column automatically cancels the previous column.

AutoSprint E control panel

This novel system allows continuous, uninterrupted overlapping of various slide and other functions while the programme is stepping from one column to the next. In this way, power is transferred to the next column and further slide movements or other functions depending on what has been programmed, will take place.

Not only does this allow for greater flexibility such as changing the turret feed rate while cutting but it overcomes the problems sometimes associated with the "step-over" on plugboard machines.

Plugboard indicator lights, which can be switched off when not required, show the live column and enable the programme sequence to be followed. It is a simple exercise to build up the full programme or alter the machining cycle.

Control panel

The simple layout of the modular control panel enables setters to understand the various functions with the minimum of instruction. All switches fall readily to hand and during the initial setting up of any part, feed and speed adjustments can be made quickly and easily.

The conveniently grouped slides and turret needle valve controls are mounted on the panel together with the "dial in" dwell timers which allow immediate setting of slide dwells.

With the aid of facilities such as the "turret inch" and "not index" controls, the setting of the machine can be quickly accomplished.

The plugboard and switch panel have graphic symbols for universal identification and are fitted with lockable covers for protection.

A further feature is the hand step push buttons which, when programmed, enables the operator to manually step from one column to the next on the plugboard. With the correct programme sequence, the hand step control enables the automatic cycle to be interrupted under the operator's control.

This is particularly useful for "on machine" inspection of components and the hand loading of parts to the collet or chuck as in second operation work.

For hand loading work, to start the automatic cycle after loading, two buttons must be depressed simultaneously one with each hand - thus ensuring that both the operator's hands are free from the machining area.

Back to Top