For years, job shops looking to automate their CNC machines faced a frustrating barrier: figuring out exactly what hardware would physically fit inside their specific machine enclosure. Spec sheets and PDFs don’t tell the whole story, and hiring an integrator often comes with hefty scoping fees and long lead times.
To solve this, Gimbel Automation has launched a free, browser-based 3D CNC Configurator that lets you design a complete CNC machine tending system using in-machine spindle gripper automation for automated part loading and unloading — in about 5 minutes.
Read the full deep-dive on how the 3D Configurator works at GimbelAutomation.com → https://gimbelautomation.com/blogs/news/3d-cnc-automation-configurator-design-your-machine-tending-system-in-5-minutes
300+ Machines, Zero Guesswork
The configurator is built around a database of over 300 CNC machines, including popular models from Haas, Brother, Fanuc Robodrill, Doosan, Hurco, and Mazak. Because the tool knows your machine’s exact table dimensions, travel limits, and door opening sizes, it only recommends equipment that will actually fit. If your specific model isn’t listed, you can enter your machine’s dimensions manually to create a custom configuration.
In-Machine Spindle Gripper Automation
As a cost-effective alternative to robotic machine tending, Gimbel’s approach focuses on in-machine spindle gripper automation. A CNC spindle gripper sits in your automatic tool changer just like any other tool holder. When called via standard M-code, the spindle descends, picks a part from a tray inside the machine, loads it into a pneumatic vise, and returns the finished part — enabling true lights-out machining and unattended operation without operator intervention.
The configurator walks you through this entire setup step-by-step:
- Define Your Stock: Enter your raw material dimensions (rectangular or round).
- Choose Your Workflow: Select single-operation (DoneInOne™) or dual-operation with a flip station (GripFlipGrip™).
- Select Your Gripper: The tool automatically filters for grippers compatible with your machine’s through-spindle coolant or air capabilities.
- Layout Your Table: Position your AutoVise™ and LoadTray™ on a dimensionally accurate 3D rendering of your machine table.
Interactive 3D Layout Preview
The standout feature of the configurator is its interactive 3D preview. As you build your system, the tool renders a full 3D model of your CNC machine table with every component placed exactly where it will sit in production. You can visualize travel envelope boundaries, check clearance zones, and confirm the entire setup fits perfectly. What you see in the browser is exactly what you’ll get on install day.
Live Pricing and Instant Equipment Lists
Once your layout is complete, the configurator generates a ready-to-buy equipment list. It queries the Gimbel Automation storefront in real time to provide live pricing, stock availability, and direct links to each product. There are no hidden fees and no waiting for quotes. You can save your configuration, clone it for other machines in your shop, or proceed straight to checkout.
See what in-machine spindle gripper automation looks like on your exact CNC. No signup required.
Read the full guide on how the 3D Configurator works → https://gimbelautomation.com/blogs/news/3d-cnc-automation-configurator-design-your-machine-tending-system-in-5-minutes
