Next-generation smart factory with 30% increase in MC production capacity (2/2)

Unmanned operation for up to 72 hours

The automation technology is outstanding. DS3 is divided into constant temperature room area, small-plants area, medium-plants area, and large-plants area according to the workpiece size and machining content. Some automation systems are installed in each area including robots, automated warehouses, and loading equipment. Auxiliary operations such as cutting oil and chip collection are also automated, enabling unmanned operation for up to 72 hours.

Its original robotics system, ARMROID, has been introduced into small-plants areas. The operators produce the small lot parts during daytime and the robots automatically machine the middle-lot parts during nighttime. Overtime work of the operators can be reduced and production efficiency can be improved by using different workers on daytime and nighttime.

In addition, the new logistics management system and a new cutting tool management system were introduced, which were also incorporated in DS1 and DS2. With the new system, the operation instructions are subdivided from the conventional daily unit to the hourly and minute unit.

Okuma adopted a system to monitor the progress of production and the operating status on a minute-by-minute basis. The system is able to find out bottlenecks of the entire factory to improve it.

Okuma also invested 1,200 million yen to build a new Materials Center in Kani Plant.

The building area is about 2,000 square meters and is responsible for heat treatment and painting of molding parts.