SherpaLoader

The SherpaLoader is the world’s first standard CNC loading robot that can automatically identify cylinders, cuboids, and sheet cuttings. Equipped with a camera and laser system, it detects workpieces on table trolleys, drawers, and pallets, picking them up for loading into machine tools. After machining, it removes the finished parts from the machine and places them back onto the loading device.

Contract manufacturers focusing on small production batches of 10 – 1,000 workpieces particularly appreciate the system's easy and quick configuration. Using a GUI and context-sensitive support, operators conveniently create new orders on the large touch screen, without any programming knowledge.

How Does it Work?:

First, you prepare the automation in three simple steps...

1. Supply blanks: Arrange raw material on the material staging decice, in no particular arrangement
2. Adjust robot grippers: Set width of the robot grippers to match the workpiece dimensions
3. Select job: Choose a saved job or create a new one in the dialog control – then press Start!

... then, the automation process starts:

1. SherpaLoader uses its 3D-vision and laser system to detect blanks on the material plate
2. It picks up the first blank and places it into the clamping device of the machine tool
3. While machining is in progress, the SherpaLoader picks up the next blank and waits in front of the machine's safety door
4. Once machining is complete, it removes the finished part from the machine and inserts the next blank
5. This process repeats until the last part of the job is completed

Does it have a URCap? No

License: One-time purchase

Minimum Software versions:

The SherpaLoader robot cell is operated through EasyControl v6, i. e. a proprietary software of MAFU-SHERPA. A free software license is granted with each robot cell.

Dimensions:

Height (m): 2

Width (m): 0.8

Length (m): 1.2 / 1.4

Weight (kg): 385 / 585

Certifications & Standards:

CE, 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive, esp. DIN EN ISO 12100:2011-03; DIN EN 60204-1:2019-06, DIN EN ISO 10218-2:2012-06, DIN EN ISO 13849-1:2016-06, DIN EN ISO 13849-2:2013-02, DIN EN ISO 13857:2020-04; DIN EN ISO 14120:2016-05; DIN EN ISO 14119:2014-03; DIN EN ISO 13855:2010-10; DIN EN ISO 13850:2016-05; DIN EN ISO 4414:2011-04

• Optimized for small/medium batches: Changeover in under 5 minutes. Simply adjust gripper width, i.e. no mechanical stops, grid plates, or magazines need changes. Robot paths adapt automatically to workpiece dimensions.
• No robotics expertise required: Intuitive dialog control on a 17" touch display enables job setup without programming knowledge.
• Compatible with any CNC machine: Universal interface for all common turning and milling machines, both new and existing machines that are retrofitted.
• Ready to use: Fully configured during commissioning, with all robot programs set before handover.
• Optional vision system: 3D camera and laser technology replace mechanical structures—faster, more flexible, less downtime.
• Fast ROI: Increases spindle time without costly mechanics or oversized components, reducing amortization time to often under 12 months.

• UR12e

• Austria
• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Germany
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Switzerland

• 1 x UR10e / UR12e (mounted on automation cell)
• 1 x 3PE Teach Pendant for E-Series
• 1 x SherpaLoader robot cell
• 1 x HMI with EasyContol dialogue
• 2 x Grippers with gripper fingers
• 1 x Power cable
• 1 x UR10e / UR12e User manual
• 1 x SherpaLoader User manual (English/German PDF)
• 1 x SherpaLoader Installation manual (English/German PDF)