ACE Automation

ACEflex

Flexible machine tending and secondary operations for small parts.

ACEflex ACEflexfeeder ACEpack ACEpal ACEstack ACEtend Xcite Xstream
Drawer-Fed Machine Tending

The Standard ACEflex Automation platform is one of the most flexible, cost-effective material handling systems for loading and unloading parts to machines. Its bi-directional drawer feed system enables operators to swap finished and raw parts without stopping the machine — maximizing uptime and minimizing operator wait time.

Drawers hold changeout fixture plates, trays, or wire baskets. The Stacked Drawers (SD) configuration with 2-4 stacked drawers significantly increases part feed buffer for longer unattended run times.

The compact, standardized platform reduces lead time and engineering cost compared to a fully custom cell, while still offering a wide range of add-on capabilities to match your specific application.

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Core System Components

Compact Machine Base

Pre-engineered footprint that minimizes floor space while providing a rigid, precision foundation for the robotic cell.

Safety Guarding & Load Area

Traditional hard guard with access door, light curtain, and/or area scanner options — matched to your safety requirements.

Bi-Directional Drawer Feed

Drawers enable operators to swap finished and raw parts without stopping the machine — the key to maximizing uptime.

Robot with Gripper(s)

Includes one robot (more upon request). Supports single or multi-machine tending with automatic EOAT changeover tools available.

PLC & HMI

Allen Bradley or Siemens PLC and HMI with Ethernet IP communication. Data collection and traceability options available.

Electrical & Pneumatic

Complete electrical panel and pneumatic systems — fully wired, plumbed, and tested before delivery.

Available Add-Ons

Every application is different. ACEflex's modular design lets you add capabilities to the base system to match your specific production requirements.

  • SPC / audit parts drawer
  • NOK / reject parts drawer
  • Assembly & testing
  • Part deburring
  • Part cleaning (air blow off, spin-off, rust preventative)
  • Vision inspection & gauging
  • Laser marking (2D data matrix, human readable, mark verification)
  • Part or tray traceability (2D barcode scanners)
  • Multi-machine tending
  • Multiple robots / grippers
  • Moveable cell rails (maintenance access, manual load/unload)
  • Conveyor, workstocker & ACEflexfeeder feed options
What Problems ACEflex Solves

Reduce Cycle Time

Continuous operation with drawer exchange means no machine downtime for part loading — the robot works while the operator loads the next batch.

Address Labor Shortages

One operator can tend multiple ACEflex cells, reducing dependence on manual labor for repetitive machine loading tasks.

Faster Deployment

Pre-engineered platform means shorter lead times and lower engineering costs than a fully custom robotic cell — without sacrificing flexibility.

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