Create highly complex parts with infinite degrees of freedom
CEAD’s Flexbot is an absolute game-changer for additive manufacturing. It offers a unique combination of 3D printing and optional post-processing technologies including CNC milling, in one turnkey solution.
This robot-based system offers a high degree of geometric flexibility, allowing you to produce parts that were previously impossible or impractical using traditional manufacturing methods. CEAD robot extruders are designed to process virtually any short fibre reinforced thermoplastic pellet material and therefore suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. CEAD offer a wide range of extruders, varying in weight, output and dimensions. We happily advise you on the perfect fit for your purpose.
The Flexbot runs on CNC control with Siemens Sinumerik Run MyRobot/Direct Control, providing high levels of precision and control. In-house
calibration methods specifically developed for the Flexbot ensure the accuracy of the robot is excellent for both 3D printing and CNC milling.
As the integrator, CNC Robotics focuses on the installation, training and safety of the system. We train users on how to use the system as well as completing a site acceptance test (SAT) enabling you to focus on developing 3D printing applications and manufacturing parts in short time.
The System
Flexible
solution
A highly flexible platform for large-scale additive manufacturing, with extensive configuration options.
CNC
CONTROL
The robot kinematics are fully integrated into a CNC system, eliminating the need for a seperate robot controller.
modular
design
The Flexbot can be upgraded with multiple robots, linear tracks and different types of extruders.
hybrid
system
Combine 3D printing and milling into one automated process. Important for smooth surface finishing.
What's included
ROBOT
The AM Flexbot is equipped with a Comau robot, the robot arm is optimised to use the Siemens Sinumerik 840D controller, which allows the customer to control the robot directly. The size of the atteched extruder will determine the most suitable size robot.
Hardware
The extruders process virtually all short-fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites, making them widely applicable to many industries. The extruder is accompanied with a base unit that controls temperature, extrusion speed and ensures safe operations.
Software
Siemens Sinumerik enables the correct deposition of material for 3D printing applications. It is also equipped with data logging, giving you clarity on the robots performance so you can refine your 3D printed parts.
safety
The safety cage surrounding the robot is included for safe operations. The cage includes a sliding door with opening of 3.5 m and locking mechanism.
System Upgrades
Dynamic Flow Control
The Dynamic Flow Control serves as a buffer and as an on/off switch inside the barrel. Usage of the DFC thus results in less accumulated pressure within the barrel.
Hybrid Manufacturing
Combine 3D printing and milling into one automated process. For mold making and tooling applications ideal to achieve the required surface finish.
Heated Printbed
The heated upgrade gives you a print surface temperature of 120 °C which is ideal for materials that require more gradual cooling.
Extruder Upgrades
CEAD offer a broad range of extruders that vary in terms of weight, output, heating power and other specifications.
Applications
Rapid Prototyping
Our robotic 3D printer facilitates cost-effective, in-house prototyping, optimizing every stage of validation and significantly reducing product development cycles. The technology ensures precise and agile design testing and analysis, enabling data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.
Mould Making
The versatility of our robotic 3D printing systems accommodates the intricacies of mould geometries, whether non-planar or multi-planar, ensuring that each mould meets the exacting requirements of your production needs. Since the 3D printing process works by producing parts layer by layer, material is, for the most part, used only where needed. As a result, it produces less waste than traditional subtractive methods.
Efficient Tooling
From jigs and fixtures to casting patterns, polymer 3D printing opens the door to faster, cheaper and customised tools. The available 3D printable thermoplastic materials currently available are even strong enough to replace metal tools, which makes the assembly process a lot easier and lowers the cost of the custom tool.
Customised Products
Since 3D printing doesn’t require labour-intensive and costly tooling and can create complex objects cost-effectively, it enables the production of personalised products tailored to consumers. Customization can be immediately implemented with digital models, using a 3D scan or CAD file, import the file into your software and prepare it for printing.
Part Production
For industries like aerospace and defense, where highly complex parts are produced in low volumes, 3D printing is ideal. Using the technology, complex geometries can be created without having to invest in expensive tooling equipment. This offers aerospace OEMs and suppliers a cost-effective way to produce small batches of parts cost-effectively.
Industries
Aerospace
Architecture
automotive
creative
marine
renewables
This technology enables the creation of lightweight and durable parts, greatly benefiting solar panel, wind turbine and renewable energy system manufacturers. Businesses who use in house 3D printing for custom and specialised parts will streamline their operations significantly.
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