Multi-layer Frame Handling Robot

The Multi-Layer Frame Handling Robot is an automated loading and unloading system made for CNC lathes, machining centres, drilling centres, and high-volume assembly lines. It uses a multi-frame layered storage structure. Instead of putting parts directly on trays, this system puts entire frames of parts into the equipment. The robot automatically takes frames layer by layer, picks parts, and cycles through frames. This achieves long, unattended production for large batches.

The main difference from standard magazines is the storage method. Standard magazines put parts directly on trays. The Multi-Layer Frame Handling Robot puts entire frames of parts into the equipment. One frame can hold dozens or even hundreds of parts. The machine can hold several frames. Total storage capacity is many times that of standard trays.

Zhejiang Luban has strong experience with frame-type loading and unloading. Our Multi-Layer Frame Handling Robot is widely used for high-volume automation of small parts, batch parts, shaped parts, and standard parts. We have successful cases from auto parts to hardware stamping parts.

In high-volume processing, storage capacity is the key factor for unmanned production time. A single-layer tray can only hold a few dozen parts. It runs out quickly, so workers must reload often. Multi-layer trays hold more, but each layer must be loaded separately, which takes a long time.

The Multi-Layer Frame Handling Robot solves this with whole-frame storage. Workers can load parts into frames away from the machine. Then they put the full frames into the equipment. One frame takes time to load, but the machine can run multiple frames alternately. Workers only need to replace empty frames with full ones while the machine runs. This does not affect production. One customer told us that after using this system, a single load supports eight hours of continuous running. Workers just load the frames at the start of the shift and then do other tasks. They do not need to stop during the shift.

The machine has multiple independent frame slots inside. The robot takes parts from the current frame and moves to the machine door to wait. When the machine finishes and opens the door, the robot removes the finished part and loads the new one. When the current frame is empty, the system switches to the next full frame. Empty frames are collected automatically. The whole process is fully automatic.

The control uses a Siemens S7-200 SMART PLC with a 7-inch touch screen. The interface is clean and direct. The lift uses an Inovance servo motor with precision racks and guides. Positioning accuracy is ±0.25 mm. The system connects to the machine through standard signals. It supports automatic picking, empty alarm, and fault stop.

The body uses a heavy steel frame. It is rigid and has high load capacity. The robot uses a servo motor with precision guides. Running is stable and repeat positioning is accurate. The frame slots use a vertical stacking design. This uses vertical space well and has a small footprint. The frames are standardised and can be removed and replaced quickly. By using different frame sizes, it can fit shafts, discs, rings, shaped small parts, and hardware stamping parts. The working temperature range is -10°C to 45°C. Safety features include a fence, anti-pinch structure, emergency stop, sound and light alarms, and motion interlocks. The automatic area is separated from the manual area. Frame changing, picking, and machine linking are all protected against interference.