Die handling application crane
Die handling application crane

Die Handling Cranes

Making cars and trucks requires efficient production and reliable equipment. Konecranes has cranes with features for safe and easy operation. We offer several types of cranes for die handling purposes including CXT®, SMARTON® and UNITON™ cranes.

Kalıp Elleçleme Vinç Uygulamaları
Kalıp Elleçleme Vinç Uygulamaları

Die Gripper Cranes

Die gripper cranes are die handling cranes equipped with a gripper. Konecranes die gripper cranes use semi-automatic mode while transporting, which means that X&Y movements are done automatically with help of Target Positioning feature. Last 200 – 500 mm of Z-movement can be done manually with help of Micro Speed feature.

Coil Handling Cranes2_Automotive
Coil Handling Cranes2_Automotive

Coil Handling Cranes

Coil handling cranes transport coils in Unreeling and Blank Cutting area. They are high-speed cranes that can be equipped with a variety of lifting devices depending on the material to be handled. They will often be equipped with Smart Features for improved productivity and safety.

WMS Smart Features

Automotive die being lifted by craneKonecranes WMS Smart Features (SF) are designed for streamlining daily operations, providing operators with support, and minimizing the risk of errors. Smart technology and an intuitive interface make Smart Features an ideal solution for efficient and reliable die storage management.

Before a die is stored, die information is entered into the WMS and then the operator can lift the die manually with the gripper crane to use the teach function. By teaching a die, the RFID information will be read from the RFID tag and saved to the die information along with the measured weight and the gripper leg width position, saving the operator time and helping prevent mistakes in the RFID information.

To further support the operator, the WMS automatically sends the sequence of transport orders that is required for a die exchange to the crane. If the die gripper crane is operated in semi-automatic mode with the radio control, the WMS visualizes the currently selected destination in the storage layout.

Benefits
  • Streamlined daily operations help increase safety and minimize the risk of errors.
  • Operators are provided with support for efficient and reliable die storage management for enhanced reliability.
  • The WMS Smart Features are easy to use, making operators’ work more efficient.

Production Management Module

Konecranes production management moduleThe Konecranes WMS Production Management Module (PMM) extends the WMS using a specially designed production optimization algorithm to determine the most efficient die exchange sequences.

Die exchange jobs are activated via WMS dialog by an operator to send transport orders to the crane. The die exchange is carried out in an optimized sequence with the goal of completing a die exchange without any empty drives. This ensures optimized die exchange times. The WMS also decides the optimum storage location for each die.

The mobile PMM supports the operator during die exchanges and provides all relevant information about the current job and transport order as well as crane positions.

Benefits
  • The WMS production optimization algorithm provides increased efficiency of die exchanges.
  • The mobile PMM helps make operators more efficient with visibility to transport orders and crane positions.

Material Flow Module

Automotive die transferThe Konecranes WMS Material Flow Module (MFM) controls the material flow of the dies outside the die storage area on the press bolster positions as well as on teaching positions or die transfer carts.

The automated guided vehicle (AGV)/conveyor interface provides the seamless transfer of dies from the die storage area (DSA) to AGVs such as die transfer carts or conveying positions such as press bolsters. This interface provides efficient movement of dies and enables fully automatic handling throughout the entire die change process, reducing the chances of injury and increasing productivity.

The integration of AGV and conveyor systems into the WMS helps optimize material flow for improved overall operational efficiency. The MFM communicates with the AGVs through wireless communication or cabling within your own network and provides them with instructions on pick-up and delivery points. Die pick and deposit at the press bolster positions can also be performed in fully automatic mode with the MFM.

Benefits
  • Fully automatic die exchanges provide a safe and efficient transfer of dies from the DSA to AGVs and conveyors.
  • Integration of AGV and conveyor systems into the WMS optimizes material flow and improves operational efficiency.