Mill Automation System with MultiGrip


Automate your CNC milling machine with a standard automation system that requires no robot expertise.

VersaBuilt’s Mill Automation System with MultiGrip is a powerful, ready-to-install solution created to enhance shop efficiency, alleviate labor shortages, and give shop managers and owners peace of mind.

With a focus on maximizing productivity and reliable processing, the system delivers exceptional value by providing a low-cost way to introduce new parts and a universal solution for part picking, placing, and transferring.

By utilizing VersaBuilt’s patented MultiGrip technology—which uses the workholding itself as the robot gripper—the system enables complete automation of multi-operation parts without requiring a regrip station or custom end-of-arm tooling.

MultiGrip sets a new standard for vertical-mill machine tending.

Refer to the Resources Page for Manuals, Guides, Datasheets, CAD Models, etc.

Perfect for High-Mix Production

Configuring new parts for automation has never been easier or faster. The Mill Automation System allows a machinist to configure a new part in just a few minutes using a simple web-based form.

Once the part configuration has been saved, the CNC operator simply selects the part, loads the raw material onto the VersaCart as instructed on the screen, and presses Cycle Start to begin the automation process.

Made for Your Multi-Operation Parts of any Geometry

If your parts require multiple operations, why settle for a milling automation system that does not natively support them?

VersaBuilt’s patented MultiGrip system handles multi-operation processing seamlessly by gripping the vise jaws rather than the part itself.

This allows a single gripper to handle the part throughout multiple operations as it is machined, eliminating additional manual handling and difficult-to-implement regrip steps.

 

What’s Included in the Standard System?

Unlike piecemeal automation setups, the standard Mill Automation System with MultiGrip comes fully equipped with the hardware and software required for complete CNC machine tending:

  • VersaCart: Available in 1300 or 1700 models and equipped with a durable stainless-steel Visual Infeed.
  • Two MultiGrip Vises: Two MultiGrip 4000 standard vises are included by default.
  • MultiGrip Gripper: A pneumatic, long-travel robotic gripper designed to interface precisely with MultiGrip Jaws.
  • MultiGrip Jaws Starter Kit: Includes jaw blanks for one to two parts, allowing you to begin configuring production parts immediately.
  • VersaWash System: An integrated jaw- and chip-washing station that sprays circulated water to remove chips from the top and bottom of the jaws before, after, and between operations.
  • CNC Push Tools: Includes both Y-Push and Z-Push spring-loaded tools for precise part positioning and seating inside the CNC machine.
  • Vise Sensors: Sensors are included to confirm successful vise clamping.
  • VersaBuilt System Controller—VSC: The central hub that manages CNC communication, pneumatic control, and the easy-to-use operator interface.
  • Complete Software Suite: Includes unlimited part-program storage, troubleshooting tools, and built-in online connectivity for remote support and software updates.

Customer Empowerment

The Mill Automation System can be installed and running parts in just one to two days. It is a ready-to-go product designed by machinists, for machinists, to get your automation producing faster than a traditional custom-engineered solution.  40% of customer self-install.  100% of customers are empowered to add new parts to the system on their own.

No Robot Programming Required

Forget about the complexities of robot programming. All robot motion is preprogrammed while remaining fully customizable.

Simply enter the part dimensions and CNC milling program numbers, then enjoy the benefits of CNC automation with an easy-to-use and highly capable machine-tending system.

System Specifications and Capabilities

Supported Robot Models

  • Universal Robots: UR10e, UR20, and UR30
  • FANUC CRX: CRX-10iA/L, CRX-20iA/L, and CRX-30iA

Application Flexibility

  • Multi-operation processing
  • Any part geometry
  • Vertical and CNC mills
  • Compatible with 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining
  • Direct part transfer from Vise 1 to Vise 2 (no regrip station)

Optional Accessories and Upgrades

Tailor the system to your specific manufacturing requirements with these available add-ons:

  • MultiGrip 2000 Vises: Lower-profile MultiGrip vises for applications requiring a more compact workholding solution.
  • Vise Options: Available options include MultiGrip Vises with steel tops, two-vise subplates, and Vise Pressure Doublers.
  • VersaDoor CNC AutoDoor: A simple and reliable pneumatic door opener for unattended and lights-out operation.
  • Safety Scanners and Anchor Kits: Dual Safety Scanner packages and VersaCart anchor kits designed to improve floor safety and secure the automation system.
  • Custom Infeed Kits: Oversized Visual Infeeds and custom-locator-ready kits for unique part sizes and geometries.