Makino MMC Adds Flexibility, Reliability To Automation

Designed to improve manufacturing efficiency, the Makino Machining Complex (MMC) is an enhanced pallet-management system created to meet the increasing demands of customers. The system assigns work and initiates operations automatically, based on machine and material availability, utilizing maximum spindle capabilities and monitoring all automated procedures.

Up to 15 machining centers and four different work setting stations can be tied into the MMC. The system can handle up to 200 pallet stockers—stacked either one, two or three layers high—with an unlimited number of parts and fixtures.

Makino is a pioneer in manufacturing automation technology, being the first global company to build this type of flexible system. The company holds a number of patents on this system technology, and permits customers to achieve much higher spindle utilization rates with measurably improved machine productivity. There are over 1,000 MMC systems installed worldwide today.

MMC Control Features
Makino’s Model A3 cell controller software helps monitor and control MMC production requirements. The state-of-the-art A3 controller is designed to handle a wide variety of parts and will provide flexible production management.

The PC-based software maximizes production output while effectively monitoring all multimachine production activities.

Features of the Model A3 include NC programs, which are downloadable to the machining center using high-speed FOCAS1 Ethernet or HSSB (optional) processes. All NC programs can be stored on the A3 hard drive and managed by A3 to achieve optimum results.

It supports a Fanuc Data Server option or the PC data server emulation function to execute large program files. It also has optional DNC operation, allowing "drip feeding" to the machine control.

As a tool manager, A3 notifies the operator when required tools are missing or have exceeded their life estimates and it can be accessed and modified from a PC. It also informs the operator when the automatic tool changer (ATC) has reached its capacity, and schedules work only for the machines which meet specific tooling requirements.

The Model A3 has tooling and part info files, dynamic system scheduling, external pallet and tool crib management and remote machine status monitoring. The controller also allows for common fixture, part data and production order management.

The A3 allows for multiple job, part and process sequencing, and for multiple fixture pallet management. It also has a built-in reporting package and a modem for routine software enhancement and technical support/assistance.