Impax 2000, Manual

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struck, twisted, deflected, etc. Another device, the machine position sensor, is turned on by a
timing cam when it is time for the part to be formed, at that time, the IMPAX monitor measures
the impulse from each force sensor. This measurement is converted to a number and stored in
memory. (The number is relative; it is not calibrated in any engineering units.) After a number
of new parts have been made, an average force level is determined and limits are set above and
below this average. Because some jobs run better than others, these limits are adjustable. When
the force of any stroke exceeds the limits, the process is stopped.
Stopping the machine is all the process monitor can do. It cannot fix the problem or restart the
machine. When a problem is detected a red light turns on to attract your attention and an error
message is displayed on the IMPAX unit’s display. The machine is stopped, and any accessories
are shut down in an orderly manner. A gate or diverter may also be used to trap the part which is
suspected to have caused the shutdown error.
Obviously, this system does not directly measure the quality of the parts; it indirectly measures
the consistency of the process. If a machine is running erratically or the raw material is
inconsistent, this monitor will not perform as well. Remember that IMPAX will not remedy any
problems with the manufacturing process, it can only detect them and shut the process down.
1. Ram Motion 6. Piezoelectric Sensor
2. Punch 7. Backplate
3. Finished Part 8. Machine Bed
4. Die 9. Kickout
5. Transmitted Force that will reach the sensor