Project Details
Automotive Tier 1 suppliers are under constant pressure to reduce manufacturing costs and deliver the highest quality while ensuring a safe working environment. Quality and consistency are closely monitored, with severe penalties for deviations or late deliveries. As a result, these suppliers are among the highest users of robotic and technical automation, employing highly skilled and technically-minded staff.
Selective removal of human elements from the manufacturing process is a proven strategy for improving competitiveness. However, technology integration must be carefully planned. MESH believes that a collaborative approach, combined with a thorough technical review of component design and raw material variability, is critical to successful automation.
In this case study, the customer required an automated machine to feed automotive heat shields (five types), rivet two angle brackets, insert and press three fastener/washer/bushing stacks, and offload a finished product. To meet labor input targets, the machine needed to be manned by one operator per shift, achieve an 85% OEE, and meet a cycle rate of 18 seconds.
After a thorough process review with the customer and an understanding of the raw material variability, MESH designed and built a machine that accomplished these tasks.
