[JIMTOF 2018] Coverage of the Japan International Machine Tool Fair

Read our selection of news and products showcased at Jimtof, the Japan International Machine Tool Fair that is taking place in Tokyo this week.

MACHINING IS GOING DIGITAL

Masahiko Mori, DMG MORI CEO, declared that they were going to develop digital products for machining applications. He said the company will soon start commercializing its WERKBLiQ solution, a predictive maintenance system that was designed by a German start-up that DMG MORI recently acquired. The solution involves smart sensors and artificial intelligence to predict when metal pieces need to be changed.

SMART BALL SCREWS

Taiwan-based robot manufacturer Hiwin Technologies showcased new smart ball screws to be used in motion transmission and positioning. What makes them smart is that they are equipped with sensors that can detect any default regarding their physical properties while in operation. This includes service life, abnormal vibration, lubrication and rise in temperature. The system also involves artificial intelligence as the signals are analyzed by AI-based modules built into the PCs. The system therefore enables the remote monitoring of different machines at the same time. Hiwin said they plan to start production in 2019.

CONNECTING MACHINE TOOLS

The Industrial Internet of Things was a major theme during this year’s Jimtof as it allows for the connection of machine tools and other manufacturing equipment. FANUC was there to showcase their FIELD system, previously announced in October 2017, which allows the visualization of the data of manufacturing equipment or a machine tool, for predictive maintenance purposes. The systems can predict with precision the processing time of a workpiece and also offer a history management system.