The Challenge of Marking Knobs.
In the home appliance industry, the marking of knobs (knobs) for ovens, cooktops, and washing machines is a crucial challenge. These components require precise laser markings both on the side surface (temperature indicators, programs, levels) and on the top (function symbols, reference lines). The complexity increases considering the production volumes required by the market and the variety of materials used, mainly technical plastics that need specific marking parameters.
Technological Innovation
The RotoKnob represents the evolution of laser marking technology for the home appliance industry. Building on the established RotoMark platform, LASIT has developed a system that integrates multiple innovations:
- Dual-Laser System: Two fiber-optic laser sources (available in 20W, 30W, 50W or 100W power ratings) operate simultaneously, enabling optimized cycle times and doubled productivity.
- Advanced Multi-spindle: The system is equipped with two workstations, each equipped with a 6-position multi-spindle. This makes it possible to manage the loading/unloading in masked time of 6 parts, optimizing the production flow.
- Precision Tilting System: The innovative tilting system allows full 360-degree rotations of the knob plus a tilt of up to 90 degrees. This unique feature allows markings to be made on both the circumference and the head of the knob without the need for manual repositioning.
The Work Cycle in Detail
- Loading Phase: The operator loads 6 knobs on the first multispindle into the loading station
- Table Rotation: 1000mm rotary table automatically rotates 180°, bringing parts into marking position
- Simultaneous Marking:
- The two lasers begin simultaneous marking
- Tilting system rotates knobs for marking on circumference
- Once the side marking is completed, the system basculates to 90° for marking on the head
- Masked Time: During marking, the operator unloads completed parts from the second multispindle and loads 6 new knobs
- Cycle Completion: When the marking is finished, the table rotates again, returning the marked parts to the unloading position.
Advanced Technical Features
In this laser marker, LASIT has implemented specific technical solutions to ensure maximum efficiency and quality:
- Steel Structure: The entire structure, including rotary table and XZ axes, is made of steel to ensure stability and precision in laser marking
- Dedicated Vacuum System: A vacuum system with HEPA filter and activated carbon effectively handles dust and fumes generated by laser marking on plastic materials
- Advanced Monitoring:
- Integrated camera for real-time process control
- Vision system for quality verification (optional)
- Customized Software Interface:
- Dedicated software to simplify programming
- Direct integration with enterprise MES/ERP systems
- Barcode reader for automatic program loading (optional)
- Motorized XZ axes:
- X-axis with 200mm stroke for extended marking area
- Z axis with up to 200mm travel to handle knobs of different heights
