Fori recently supplied a module assembly line for axle assembly. The production line consisted of a Fori twin strand conveyance system with manual assembly stations, automatic Lateral Run Out (LRO) and automatic end of line robotic vision system for inspection.
Features:
Assembly Jobs Per Hour: 81 jobs
Keys to Success: Inverted assembly process, integrated robots for vision inspection, lateral run out with WSS testing
Results: High build efficiency, reduction in rejected parts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MySCkX35R6I
The required equipment was met with a few unique challenges and aspects:
Inverted assembly and unloading of the vehicle side up
Unique LRO testing and retry methodology
Inverted robotic vision verification
Minimal area available for assembly line
Robotic vision verification
Prior to testing the LRO, the hub and rotor must be assembled on a test fixture complete with constant velocity. The joint and hub fasteners are then tightened according to production standard and are able to withstand an axial load of 100 kN. In order to accomplish these items the equipment had to lift the axle from the pallet prior to being secured.
https://youtu.be/fZ15gTgPO60
Due to the rotors being unable to be retained flat against the hub, the equipment could not guarantee "non-contamination" that could potentially produce a fault during LRO. In order to correct this the “retry method” of the equipment was to remove the rotor, index to the next rotary present pattern and reinstall the rotor to the hub prior to LRO testing.
For more information regarding Fori Automation's assembly or end of line systems, please visit our website.
