This diploma thesis deals with the upgrade of a robotic cell for welding railway wagon
underframe subassemblies by using zero-point clamping systems to automate the clamping
and unclamping process of workpieces. The purpose of the work was to reduce workpiece
preparation time, improve process repeatability, and increase the safety and reliability of the
robotic cell.
The work included an analysis of the existing clamping system, the design of a new
automated system, the selection of components, the preparation of wiring diagrams, the
development of PLC program logic, and the integration of the system into the existing robotic
cell. Special attention was given to the connection between the additional PLC controller, the
pneumatic system, and the main robotic control system.
The developed system is based on STARK.airtec GX080 zero-point clamping systems, a
Siemens LOGO! 24C PLC, and a Siemens DM8 24R input/output module. The operation of
the system was verified through several testing phases and by adapting the existing robot
program, which was required due to the changed position of the workpiece on the new fixture.
The results show that automated clamping significantly reduces workpiece preparation time,
improves process repeatability, and reduces the possibility of operator errors. The upgrade
represents an effective solution for increasing productivity and reliability in robotic welding
processes.
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