AUTOMATED TECHNOLOGY FOR MANUFACTURING SCALES FOR INFORMATION AND MEASURING DEVICES

Abstract

Background. The instrument scale consists of a metal or polymer base, on which paints are applied to indicate graduations, signs and symbols. The application of color images is carried out by silk-screen, photochemical or pad printing methods, which have a number of significant disadvantages. Metal-based scales require special preliminary surface preparation. In the manufacture of film scales, after applying paint, the flat base is cut along the contour with the execution of technological holes. This process was carried out by cutting on a press, and a large range of high-precision tooling is required for the manufacture of each type of scale. The purpose of the work is to develop an automated technology for manufacturing instrument scales, including modern digital technologies for applying layered paint systems, mechanical contour cutting, automated glue application, ensuring high quality products. Materials and methods. The image was applied in one technological operation on an inkjet printer with UV curing. Tests have shown that prototypes of dials made of Makrofol DE 6-2 Natur 0.42 film meet operational requirements and requirements for interoperative storage. The tasks were solved on the basis of the results of experimental work on the study of implemented technological processes; the use of computer modeling methods. Results. A method of manufacturing an instrument scale and an automated line for its implementation has been developed, including a section of modern digital technologies for applying layered systems on an inkjet printer with UV curing, a section of mechanical contour cutting on a cutting plotter, a section of automated local glue application, implemented as an automated complex. Conclusions. The proposed technology for manufacturing film scales for information and measuring devices provides a 6.8-fold increase in productivity, increased efficiency and flexibility of production, allows you to quickly and cost-effectively rebuild to produce new products programmatically through the integrated introduction of new automation methods and modern technological processes at all stages of the production cycle.

Keywords

• automated technology
• film scale
• device
• digital printing
• cutting
• manufacturing
• inkjet printer
• cutting plotter
• automated complex