The Milltronics VM3020IL with Procobots ProFeeder automation, as debuted at IMTS 2026.
At Milltronics, we're constantly looking for ways to put new capabilities within reach of job shops, always at an approachable price point. We've recently done this in a big way, bringing automation to the shop floor in the most user-friendly, easy-to-implement package on the market. Read on to see what we've done, how you'll benefit, and why some traditional barriers no longer apply.
Steve SchermannApplications Manager, Milltronics
Over a decade of experience in machine tool applications.
Through the power of our INSPIRE+ control and platform, our engineers have been able to achieve full integration between Milltronics machines and Procobots ProFeeder automation systems. These systems include a robotic arm, gripper, and one or more grid-based tables to store blanks and parts. Deployment of automation has never been easier.
Using conversational programming on the INSPIRE+ control, job setup is a breeze. In setup mode, the robotic arm can be easily maneuvered by hand. The operator moves the gripper to a spot on the grid that contains raw stock and allows it to clamp, unclamp, and re-clamp the workpiece. They then manually guide it through the machine's open doors and into the workholding. From that process, the system automatically calculates an optimal path for loading workpieces and unloading finished parts.
Once the setup is finished, it's as easy as telling the control which positions on the grid contain stock for the job at hand. The system will automatically load and unload the machine until the job's complete.
A workpiece loaded into the VM3020IL's workholding by the ProFeeder system.The entire cell, machine and robot, is run through conversational programming on INSPIRE+.
If a job requires an operator to stay at or near a machine for more than a few minutes, automation can likely provide a significant benefit.
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Why You Should Automate
People often think of automation as a solution for large production runs. In reality, if a job requires an operator to stay at or near a machine for more than a few minutes, automation can likely provide a significant benefit.
The Procobots ProFeeder system contains leveling casters, allowing it to be quickly moved between machines. In minutes, you can set up hours' worth of machining that previously required an operator to manually load and unload workpieces. With multiple systems in play, the output of a single operator can be tripled or quadrupled, all while eliminating a repetitive manual task that can create discomfort or even result in injury.
Once a job has been set up, it's permanently stored in the system and can be recalled at any time. For jobs that you run at regular intervals, after the initial set up, all you have to do is select the job, place blanks on the table, and tell the control which grid positions contain them. Automation will take it from there.
Additionally, while the Procobots ProFeeder system includes a grid with 24 pockets, it's very affordable to produce grids with different sizes and quantities of pockets. The default system uses a single grid, but shops can optionally select stacked tray orientations that incorporate either five or ten drawers that are automatically accessed.
The ProFeeder's grid-based table holds raw blanks and finished parts, here, drill indexes from the IMTS 2026 demo.
In short, not only will the system empower operators to be far more productive when they're on the shop floor, it allows them to set up work that can run long after their shift has ended.
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The Hurdles We've Eliminated
When it comes to implementing automation, we've historically heard some common concerns from customers, especially smaller job shops. The Milltronics-Procobots integration addresses these head on.
“I don't know how to program a robot.”
As mentioned, the combination of INSPIRE+ and conversational programming make operating the Procobots ProFeeder system incredibly easy. When you invest in a new system, you automatically get two full days of training. But if you're already working on the Milltronics platform, you'll have the basics down almost instantaneously.
“My machines don't have auto-opening doors.”
The system includes automatic door openers that are easily installed. As soon as Procobots ProFeeder is synced to your machine, it will open and close the doors as needed.
“My workholding isn't automation compatible.”
Chances are, your workholding can easily be updated to function with the Procobots ProFeeder platform. When we debuted the system at IMTS 2026, we showcased how a simple pneumatic actuator can be slid onto a Kurt vise. Running off the machine's 90 psi air supply, this actuator is operated by the automation system to allow unmanned clamping and unclamping of parts.
“I don't have space for a safety cage.”
The robotic arm included with the Procobots ProFeeder system moves at a speed that avoids the chance of injury, while containing sensors that immediately cease movement in the event it detects any collision. As a result, no safety cage or light bars are required for safe, reliable operation.
Ready to explore the benefits of automation?
Whether you're running mills, lathes or both, this new integration puts an exciting capability within reach of your shop. The system is affordable to implement, easy to use, and highly productive, all with the flexibility to quickly move it wherever it'll provide the most benefit for that day's work.
Steve Schermann has over a decade of experience in machine tool applications. Currently, he is Milltronics' Applications Manager. You can reach him at sschermann@milltronics.com.
