Automation is the most effective method to improve productivity and efficiency in the manufacturing process. However, due to the unique requirements and factors involved, the optimal automation solution will vary depending on the application.

Industrial robots are a common automation solution that can move between parts and manufacturing processes

To ensure the safety of operators, parts are usually transported into the unit through some type of conveyor. Robots pick up parts and place them into the machine for processing. However, in many operations, robots are not needed at all.

Let's take a look at an operation that requires 400 pounds of pressure to press two rings. The original process of this operation is for the operator to remove the outer ring from the box and move it onto a fixed pressure plate. Then they will take out the inner ring from another box and place it in place. Next, they will step back and press two buttons to perform the pressing operation, and then return the completed component to another part box.

Every process requires time. If a company seeks higher productivity without automation, it will require multiple production lines. However, this may not be the most effective and cost-effective solution. Another question is how precise this type of manual operation is, how much damage the finished parts will suffer, and so on. To determine the best solution, we first explore the options.

Transfer the parts from their manufacturing point to the pressure unit for assembly. Then transport the finished product to the packaging location. This will eliminate the need for forklifts and reduce damage to loading and unloading containers. However, it will not eliminate human errors or quality issues.

Implement robots to improve throughput and accuracy. This will raise new questions about the precision required for part positioning on the conveyor belt/robot interface. How can we achieve this level of accuracy? Can robots be removed from boxes or can they transport rings from the manufacturing site? If a robot can extract components from a trash can, does it require vision, and what is the cost compared to precise positioning? In today's world, this is the preferred technology.

Place the fixture on the tray and transfer the parts from the manufacturing process to the assembly station. Parts # 1 and # 2 will be loaded onto pallets at the manufacturing point and then moved onto the printing machine. Sensors detect whether the parts are in the correct position. If they are, they are sent. If not, they are transferred to the reject branch. Approved parts and trays are pulled into the positioning station, which accurately locates (0.001)

　　Mm) and lift the tray off the conveyor belt. The locking device is positioned to support the tray/component when the press occurs. Then, the finished components are moved to the finished product unloading station.The advantage of this final design is that it is as accurate, cheaper, and causes less damage to the finished product as any other option. The disadvantage is that it requires more space as the tray needs to return to its starting position.