About the FlexBender

The FlexBender uses a modular approach in design. Each bender is referred to as a "module". The design allows the appropriate number of bend modules to be added to the bender, depending on the customer's application.

Using a high-speed transfer unit, the FlexBender can perform multi-tasking bending in which each bend module is assigned to share in bending a portion of the tube. The FlexBender in this application is a four-module machine.

This FlexBender was placing a completed part on the conveyer about every 3.8 seconds. (This includes automatic hopper loading, seam detection, bending, and conveyer unloading.)

Connecting To The Multi Measure 5000

We have tested the software with the high-tech Multi Measure 5000 measuring center (Multi Systems Service Company, Huntington Beach, California) to measure the parts and perform corrections to the FlexBender accurately and quickly.

The MM5000, to the best of our knowledge, is the most accurate 5 axis articulated arm in the world (it is referred to as the "IT525" in Europe and Asia). Like many other tube measuring centers, it uses Supravision software to perform part management and corrections.

Making the connection between the two machines was no easy task, considering the FlexBender is the equivalent of multiple benders all interacting to bend a single part. Any change in data in any single bend module affects all bend modules that follow.

Benderlink for FlexBender Basics

One of the first steps in making communication possible was to design Benderlink so that it can store and calculate all pertinent machine size, shape, and movement values. The Module Configuration screen allows operators to define each of these FlexBender parameters in the software.

The Part Configuration screen allows customers to enter data relating to part shape. Benderlink uses the Module Configuration and Part Configuration to perform the translations between the FlexBender and the standard LRA bender format.

Data from both of these screens can be saved to files for recall and setup at a later date.

Entering XYZ Data or LRA Data

XYZ COORDINATE DATA

The standard method of communicating tube part shape data in the tube fabrication industry is through using end point and intersection XYZ data that describes the tube centerline. Benderlink for FlexBender allows entry of XYZ data directly into the program, then conversion to LRA and FlexBender data.

LRA BENDER DATA

The standard for bender data is referred to as LRA data. This is an acronym that refers to (L)ength, (R)otation, (A)ngle. These are the three axes on standard CNC benders. XYZ data is converted to LRA data, then LRA data is transferred to the bender. Benderlink for FlexBender allows direct entry of LRA data, and also allows calculation of LRA data from XYZ data.

CONVERSION TO FLEXBENDER DATA

Since the FlexBender data structure does not use the LRA values directly, Benderlink for FlexBender translates LRA data to the FlexBender data format.

Computer/Platform Requirements

• Microsoft Windows 95 or 98
• CPU Speed: 300 MHz Minimum
• Minimum of 32 Megabytes of RAM
• Requires less than 10 Megabytes of disk space
• CD-ROM Drive for installation.
• One parallel printer port
• If you are using a Supravision-based machine, then the Supravision version must be capable of using the Supravision Network Protocol for communications.

Software License Price

TRADEMARK NOTICE: "FlexBender" is a trademark and the property of Wayne Trail Technologies, Inc.. The "Benderlink for FlexBender" is software owned soley by Advanced Tubular Technologies, Inc.

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