With its smart devices from the GARANT X range, the Hoffmann Group has launched a cost-effective alternative for monitoring tool breakage and workpiece positioning in automated manufacturing environments. The GARANT XControl and GARANT XTouch smart devices cyclically monitor the condition of the tools and the positioning of the workpieces in the machine. If required, they trigger a stoppage of the manufacturing process. They transmit their data by radio to the GARANT XConnect data memory stick, which forwards it to the machine control. The stick is connected to the operator panel via a USB interface. No intervention in the machine control is therefore necessary.

The tactile GARANT XControl tool breakage monitor measures the tools in the machine on a cyclical basis. This enables tool breakage to be identified and the machine to shut down if necessary. In addition, the GARANT XTouch digital 3D radio probe checks that workpieces are positioned correctly on the machine table, ensuring a reliable machining process. Workpiece zero points, lengths, bore centres, reference edges and axial alignment are determined with high precision and linearity. Concentricity adjustment is very convenient, while the working range is very generous at seven millimetres in all directions (x, y, z).

Commissioning of the GARANT XControl and GARANT XTouch does not require any specialist knowledge. The smart devices simply have to be mounted in the machine and connected to the GARANT XConnect data memory stick,and they start supplying the machine control with real-time data immediately. Operation with the following machine controls is currently possible: Siemens 840D sl from software version 2.6, Siemens 828D from software version 4.3 and Heidenhain TNC 640. Before installation, the necessary machine data has to be sent to the Hoffmann Group so that the NC cycles configured for the corresponding machine can be provided. The relevant form is available in the Hoffmann Group eShop at www.hoffmann-group.com by entering the item number 359400_1 or 359400_4.

In its GARANT X range, the Hoffmann Group supplies numerous powerful clamping technology products. In addition to the GARANT XTouch, GARANT XControl and GARANT XConnect smart devices, these include the XTURN dividing head, the GARANT XPENT 5-axis vice and the GARANT XTRIC centring vice.