The Auto Loading Cell (ALD) is a robot-assisted solution for the automated loading and unloading of machine pallets within a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS).

Key advantages:

• Maximum spindle utilization – enables unmanned production even in high-mix, low-volume environments; ideal for night and weekend shifts
• Reduced fixturing and storage needs – lowers investments in clamping devices and increases production capacity without requiring additional pallet positions
• Flexible material flow – workpieces can be supplied from the internal FMS or external storage systems, and finished parts can be returned seamlessly
• Seamless software integration – fully integrated into Fastems MMS for planning, control, and monitoring
• Fast part introduction – parametric part management in MMS enables quick and easy integration of new workpieces
• Value-added processes inside the cell – optional integration of processes such as deburring, cleaning, or marking directly into the loading sequence
• High system availability – automatic scheduling of loading cycles and material provisioning, along with error diagnostics, retries, and remote support
• Full traceability – complete documentation of all process steps and cell statuses via MMS

The ALD enables extended unmanned operation – even with small batch sizes and short machining cycles – while reducing the need for fixturing and manual intervention. It integrates seamlessly into Fastems automation systems and is centrally controlled via the MMS software.