On Jan 22, 2021/By Fori Automation, LLC/In Material Handling Systems, RGC
Fori Automation recently provided a module assembly and alignment line with limited floor space available. The system is between an existing assembly line & plant wall with the inability to get material to all parts of the assembly line required a unique process.
The minimal footprint available for assembly provided challenges for common 22unload areas within an existing assembly line. The
Fori RGCs were utilized to accom
modate our customer’s need for a flexible
material handling system.
The assembly system included a consolidated kit area. The kit area was specific to loading and hand starting parts followed by an area for torqueing. Due to the foot print constraints the process had to be strategic on how to best utilize the available space. The project also included a fully automatic suspension module aligner & backup semi-automatic aligner.
The utilization of Siemens controls matched the controls arc
hitecture for the end user and provided a seamless integration into the assembly plant.
The rear main assembly line was composed of (17) RGCs, (16) operators, (1) automatic drive through suspension module alignment machine & one semi-automatic backup alignment system.
The new RGC assembly line was installed early June of 2018 & was production capable in Fall of 2018.
On Jan 8, 2021/By Fori Automation, LLC/In Automated Guided Vehicles
Fori Automation has further improved on its standard Tugger AGV design by incorporating a Fori chain lift and pallet tooling for lithium ion battery decking.
Fori AGVs have been used for a variety of material handling applications within the automotive industry. Most recently Fori was enlisted to supply a derivative of the standard Tugger product line that has a built in electric lift and pallet tooling to be used for marrying the electric vehicle battery to the c
hassis.
The AGV was required to synchronize with the vehicle chassis in the overhead carrier. The synchronization was a challenge in itself as there was no physical tracking arm. All of the vehicle synchronization for battery decking was completed utilizing tracking cameras and encoder positioning. The most important process consideration was the safe and reliable positioning of the product for the operators.
Further improvement was the integration of a Fori Vehicle Management System (VMS). The Fori VMS allows for vehicle scheduling, charging, vehicle status information and traffic control. The Fori battery decking AGV platform partnered with the Fori VMS is a proven and robust product that can be applied to a variety of material handling applications.
