On Dec 25, 2020/By Fori Automation, LLC/In Automated Guided Vehicles
Cost effective, flexible AGV solutions have allowed automotive companies to implement a safe, reliable and repeatable material handling solution within their build processes.
The
Dock N’ Lock AGVs were built to fit within existing plants and each plants respective material handling strategy. The AGVs were commissioned to replace non-value added material handling tasks. Specifically as a direct replacement for all of the fork lifts, creating a “fork free” environment. The Dock N’ Lock AGVs are responsible for auto-docking to the pictured companion carts. Previous
methodology utilizing fork lifts was not a safe or reliable option, the Dock N’ Lock AGVs solved this problem.
The automated locking feature is what differentiates the Dock N’ Lock AGVs from standard Tuggers. The AGVs were required to auto-couple to newly developed racks, doing so removed the need for operator interface and allowed the end user to relocate operators to value added activities. The vehicles were required to repeatedly locate within +/- 10mm and travel at speeds up to 200 feet per minute.
A fully integrated, automated Vehicle Management System (VMS) was also provided. The VMS handles the traffic routing between the 19+ vehicles that are currently operating within the system. The VMS has the ability to track and store faults, monitor battery consumption and ensure safe operation by monitoring all safety devices.
On Dec 11, 2020/By Fori Automation, LLC/In Module Alignment, Caster Camber
Fori Automation Designed & Built (3) automated static alignment cells. This is a pallet pass through system that adjusts camber & toe. The aligner handles (2) vehicle models that have different geometry.
The project challenges included:
• Packaging additional tooling
• Limited module tryout
Providing customized equipment such as this starts with a concept design phase.
Fori engineering was requested to provide a detailed engineering study. Upon completion of engineering and feasibility study, it was determined that the (2) new models could be ran
together. Through the design, process and simulation, Fori was able to fit multiple tooling features for the (2) new models with different geometry.
The suspension module aligner knows which model is in the station based on a broadcast from the OEM, as well as position sensors placed in the machine, automatically initiating the correct tooling combinations.
A challenging portion for any project is the ability to debug and tryout the process. The key to success was analyzing every failure mode with precision in order to correct and provide results that would normally require more debug time.
