Asupplier of robotics and
automation systems for the
UK plastics industry, ATM’s
latest development combines
robotics and ultrasonic technology
for trimming and cutting applications
on both fabrics and plastics.

It was initially developed as a
flexible approach to the removal of
excess material following overmoulding
operations on automotive
components such as roof linings and
A, B, C and D pillars.

The inherent flexibility of the 6
axis robot, combined with the broad
capabilities of the ultrasonic
technology has allowed ATM to
apply the concept to a broader range
of applications, including the cutting
of apertures in rigid polymer
components. This has been welcomed
by several ATM customers who see
the benefits in being able to rapidly
produce prototype or, in some
instances, batches of production level
parts, ahead of making decisions on
or taking delivery of conventional
press or punch tooling systems.

The system is not intended as an
alternative to press or punch tooling
for high speed and volume
applications. The six axis robot
allows subtle changes to shape and
profile to be made in minutes,
enabling rapid fine tuning to achieve
the desired result.