The sorting carousel is an intelligent automation module developed for the CS-1100 MI Cable Straightening & Cutting Machine. It automatically sorts cut mineral insulated cable into separate trays according to the active production job, eliminating manual sorting and allowing multiple production orders to run consecutively without operator intervention.
By communicating directly with the CS-1100, the sorting carousel transforms a standalone cutting machine into the first building block of a fully automated sensor manufacturing process.
+ Designed specifically for the CS-1100
+ Automated job queue for unattended multi-batch production
+ Automatic indexing between production batches
+ Separate collection trays with automatic product sorting
+ Eliminates manual sorting and prevents mixed products
+ Retrofit solution for existing CS-1100 machines
+ Integrated ethernet communication for future automation
Job Queue
Operators simply enter multiple production orders into the CS-1100. Each job can contain its own cutting length and production quantity.
The machine automatically processes every order in sequence without requiring operator intervention between batches.
Dedicated Collection Trays
Each production batch is deposited into its own tray. This provides several important advantages:
Automatic Synchronisation
The sorting carousel communicates continuously with the CS-1100. Once a production batch has been completed, the carousel automatically rotates to the next collection position before the following job starts.
This ensures that every production order is collected separately without interrupting production.
Increase operator productivity
Instead of continuously monitoring the machine and manually separating cable sections, operators can focus on assembly, quality control or other production tasks.
Internal production evaluations have shown that automated sorting can reduce operator handling by approximately 65%, depending on the production mix and workflow.
This makes the Sorting Carousel particularly valuable for manufacturers experiencing labour shortages or increasing production volumes.
The Sorting Carousel has been designed as an extension of the existing CS-1100 platform. Manufacturers already operating a CS-1100 can upgrade their machine without replacing the complete system. he upgrade consists of:
This protects previous investments while providing a straightforward path towards increased automation.
Benefits for manufacturers:
Continuous product development is an important part of the TMF philosophy. Feedback from early users has already influenced several design improvements.
Customers producing cable lengths exceeding approximately one metre requested the ability to process long products without removing the sorting carousel. The current design therefore allows future configurations where longer products can pass through the system while the carousel remains installed.
Another customer suggestion was the use of trays with mesh bottoms, allowing desiccant material to be placed underneath the collected products. mThis can help reduce moisture exposure during temporary storage of cut MI cable before further processing.
These examples demonstrate how practical customer feedback continues to shape the development of the sorting carousel.
These steps ensure that the spool holder operates efficiently, providing a steady and consistent feed of wire into the cutting and straightening machine, minimizing manual intervention, and optimizing productivity.
The sorting carousel is more than an automatic sorting device. It represents the next step in TMF’s vision of Complete Production Process Automation. Today’s production flow:
Spool Holder → CS-1100 → Sorting Carousel
Tomorrow’s production line:
Spool Holder → CS-1100 → Sorting Carousel → Laser Grooving Unit → Robotic Handling → Laser Welding → Fully Automated Temperature Sensor Manufacturing
By investing in modular automation today, manufacturers can gradually expand their production line without replacing existing equipment.
Whether you are purchasing a new CS-1100 or already operating one, the sorting carousel provides a simple way to increase productivity and prepare your production line for further automation.
Contact our engineers to discuss how the sorting carousel can be integrated into your manufacturing process.
