Robotics has been rapidly growing across various industries, yet its presence in woodworking remains limited. This is often due to misconceptions and apprehension about adopting automation, with many manufacturers unsure if robotics can truly meet their needs. The goal of this FAQ is to address these concerns, break down barriers, and provide clear, straightforward answers to the most common questions about robotic sanding.
1. What are the key benefits of using robotic sanding over manual sanding?
Robotic sanding delivers unmatched quality consistency, ensuring every piece meets the same high standard with precise, repeatable results. It significantly improves efficiency, reducing sanding time and keeping production schedules on track. Additionally, it addresses labor challenges by taking on repetitive, labor-intensive tasks, freeing skilled workers to focus on more critical aspects of woodworking while reducing the risk of fatigue-related errors.
2. What are the requirements to install a robotic sanding cell in my facility?
Installing the Rapid Series Robot Sanding cell from Vention is quick and hassle-free. Designed for self-deployment, it arrives pre-assembled on a pallet and can be up and running in just one day. All you need are two standard 120V outlets and 80 psi of compressed air. Simply plug it in, turn it on, and start sanding!
3. Can robotic sanding deliver consistent and repeatable results?
Consistency is the core advantage of automating sanding. With a robot offering 0.05mm repeatability and a passive compliance tool ensuring constant sanding pressure, the process delivers precise and uniform results every time. Once set up, the robotic system performs tirelessly, repeating the same high-quality sanding process without variation or fatigue.
4. How easy is it to program and operate a robotic sander?
Vention has built a code-free, intuitive interface to make it simple for any operator to program and operate a robotic sander with ease. New sanding ‘recipes’ can be created in minutes with just four simple steps, and pre-configured sanding patterns make the process even easier. Both tools and sanding parameters can be quickly adjusted to suit your specific process, ensuring seamless operation.
5. What types of doors can robotic sanding systems handle?
Robotic sanding systems are versatile and can handle a wide range of door panel types, including Simple, Shaker, Recessed, Raised, and Step Shaker designs. They work seamlessly with various materials such as MDF/HDF, hardwood, softwood, and wood veneer. Additionally, these systems are capable of sanding different surface types, from rough to primed, painted, or coated finishes, ensuring flexibility for any project.
6. What does maintenance look like for robotic sanders?
Recommended maintenance includes cleaning the laser scanner with air pressure when needed. The robot itself is certified for 8 years of maintenance-free operation. In the unlikely event of an issue, a FANUC technician will provide on-site support. Additionally, if a portable dust extractor is used, it should be emptied regularly to ensure optimal performance.
7. How does Vention ensure ongoing support for robotic sanding systems after purchase?
With Vention’s Rapid Series Sanding, you receive a complimentary one-year Remote Support subscription, which can be renewed annually. Remote Support lets you connect directly with our team from the pendant, with a rapid 10-minute response time. This allows for quick troubleshooting to keep your operations running smoothly. If an issue cannot be resolved remotely, a Vention team member will come on-site to provide hands-on support.
8. How does the system handle different door types and dimensions?
The system easily adapts to different door models and dimensions. Operators can create sanding recipes for all door types and simply select the appropriate model— the robot handles the rest! Equipped with a laser scanner, the system hovers over the door to detect its dimensions automatically before beginning the sanding process. No manual input is required for door dimensions, ensuring both accuracy and efficiency.
9. Can automation be added to the infeed and outfeed of the sanding cell?
Yes, automation can be added to the infeed and outfeed of the sanding cell by designing a custom solution. This is the strength of the Vention platform—it allows you to create a tailored setup that meets your specific production needs, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced efficiency.
10. Where can I see these robotic sanding solutions in action?
You can see these solutions in action by contacting us to organize an in-person demo with your panels! Additionally, you can watch testimonials from two of our customers, Fabridor and Cripps and Sons, to learn more about their experience with robotic sanding cells.
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As automation continues to reshape the woodworking industry, robotic sanding systems provide the flexibility and efficiency needed to stay competitive while delivering consistent quality.
Reach out to us at marc-antoine.bolduc@vention.cc to discuss your unique needs and explore how robotic sanding can enhance your production.
