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integrated Mitsubishi Electric six-axis robotic arm automation solutions that need to interact with each
that further improves productivity. Several parts can other seamlessly. In fact, AMT’s goal was to develop
be post-processed at the same time within PostPro a machine suitable for Industry 4.0, i.e. connected
3D, providing they are made of the same materials to the cloud, able to send status updates,
and require identical surface finishing. automatically order consumables when needed and
Once the parts are inserted, it is possible to suitable for preventative maintenance and remote
select the desired surface roughness as well as diagnostics.
additional surface qualities, e.g. matt or glossy Crabtree comments: “To realise our concept, we
finishes. The processing data is analysed and stored needed an automation partner that could provide
in real-time for continuous process and machine the whole range of machine control systems, as well
monitoring. as the actual robotics. This is fundamental to truly
After a cycle time of typically 90-120 minutes, integrate our machine into the production line of the
the smoothing operation is complete, and the parts future as well as to benefit from a lean, single
are released and ready to use. In addition, when vendor distribution model.”
required the machine can automatically re-order Finally, certified automation products were also
consumables, i.e. cartridges containing chemicals, key to AMT, as Joseph Crabtree explained: “In order
thus further simplifying and speeding up production to expand and deliver our solution in the U.S.,
lines. A smart and highly connected machine like Europe and China we needed to build a system
PostPro 3D employs a number of factory whose components are all accredited according to

April 2021 • INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY EXTRA • p5