Sneak Peek: Homag's Display at Xylexpo
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woodWOP goes 3D – with a range of surprising new functions
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The HPP 300 profiLine saw will be on show at the fair in combination with a TLF 411 area storage system
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Fully automated edge banding: The KFL 350 in combination with a new workpiece handling system, the TFU 220
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Individual packaging with the VKS 200 packaging machine
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The powerTouch operating concept with standardized operating elements and software modules for all HOMAG Group machines.
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The laserTec unit comes in three performance categories with feed rates of up to 52 m/min

With a complete batch size 1 plant and an array of smart workshop concepts from small to large – including matching operating and data concepts – the HOMAG Group will be demonstrating what can be achieved in terms of production efficiency at the Xylexpo 2014.

Batch size 1 in furniture production LIVE in operation:

The batch size 1 plant exhibited at the Xylexpo produces 1,000 parts per shift, and comprises the following elements:

• Saw-storage combination: Saw-storage combinations not only simplify day-to-day working, they also enhance efficiency and output and keep processes flowing smoothly. The HPP 300 profiLine saw will be on show at the fair working in tandem with area storage system TLF 411. This combination is equipped with a range of functional features including suction traverse ST71 in X-geometry, the latest destacking concept, a surface labeller and the extraction technology dustEx.

• Fully automated edge banding: The KFL 350 edge bander is capable of changing between two processes – using a barcode, the machine automatically recognizes whether to approach the next furniture component using the laserTec method or conventional hot-melt glue. A gap between workpieces of 400 m has been made possible at a feed rate of 30 m/min specifically for the production of small batch sizes. The KAL 250 is linked to a new workpiece handling system, the TFU 220. Here, edge circulation in a 2-gantry design ensures optimum process flow at high speed.

• High-speed drilling and packaging: Following edge processing, drilling and hardware mounting take place. The throughfeed drilling machine ABL 220 is designed to provide flexible routing and drilling operations with a high-speed drilling gear. The furniture components then go on to be individually packaged using packaging machine VKS 200 with powerTouch. The packaging designs required for this can now be downloaded directly to the VKS from the new online shop.

Making a crucial difference: software and interfaces

• Seamless data flow: One of the key targets when working with networked production plants is to reconcile variant diversity and batch size one production with the achievement of production economy. Decisive to achieving this aim are standardized interfaces and optimum communication between machines. The use of simulation techniques for advance plant planning is also advisable, including analyzing and leveraging maximum optimization potential once the machine is already operating on site. This can be achieved using MOS (Manufacturing Organization System), material flow control and visualization, as well as identification systems to enable component recognition, and subsequent Machine Monitoring und Reporting (MMR).

• powerTouch operating concept: The latest machine control system generation will be in operation on almost all the machines featured at the Xylexpo. The system centers on a large multitouch monitor, where the machine functions are controlled by direct touchscreen actuation. New help and assistant functions significantly simplify working, while at the same time standardized operating elements and software modules ensure that all HOMAG Group machines benefit from the same familiar operating concept.

Even more technical highlights:

Total zero joint from von airTec to laserTec: Where there used to be a joint, now there is nothing to be seen. Today, the quality aspirations imposed on woodworking shop production are just as high as on industrial-scale manufacturing. To address these growing expectations, the HOMAG Group will be showcasing both entry level zero joint solutions in woodworking shops with airTec as well as the laserTec method designed for high-performance industrial operation in three performance categories with up to speeds of 52 m/min.

CNC technology: The CNC technology on show this year in Milan opens up wide-ranging scope for improved efficiency and greater creativity. Featured innovations include vertical CNC technology with a state-of-the-art handling concept, as well as simple-exchange gluing technology for edge gluing up to a depth of 2,250 mm, and an edge banding unit with swivel action for gluing straight shaped edges and inclined edges on a single workpiece.

Software: Solutions such as woodCAD|CAM will be showcased, demonstrating a simple, reliable sequence from the initial idea through to the finished product – including 3D room planning at the point of sale, free design and a fully functional CAD program.

woodWOP goes 3D: woodWOP 7 is under starter’s orders and will be showcased with a range of surprising new features.

New surface processing options: What does today’s modern furniture manufacturer need? With innovative sanding technology through to high-gloss and surface lamination or profile wrapping, the HOMAG Group will be showcasing the complete spectrum of surface processing options from a single source.

Source: HOMAG Group AG

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