“Wire forming is our business,” automotive supplier JR Manufacturing writes on its Web site. As proof, the company points to the fact that it currently makes more than 100 wire seat components for major automakers, including Acura, Chrysler, Honda, Lexus, Mitsubishi and Toyota.
When preparing parts for assembly, automakers can
always use an extra hand or two. One automaker has found those hands at the end
of a dual-arm robot. For the past four years, the automaker has used the dual-arm robot to shorten
the cycle time to treat the front and back surfaces of a suspension component.
Two leading suppliers of wire harness assembly equipment are celebrating their centennials at the National Electrical Wire Processing Technology Expo in Milwaukee this week.
Ironically, Wisconsin’s first solar panel manufacturer is located in the shadow of a coal-fired power plant. The Helios Solar Works facility is a shining example of how 21st century renewable energy technology may soon surpass 19th century processes.
Automakers are often the driving force behind the latest product and process innovations in assembly. Case in point: European automakers have been using flow drilling screws since 1996 to assemble body panels and chassis made of aluminum and thin materials-which continue to gain favor to make cars lighter.
Lithium-ion batteries are today's hot technology in the auto industry. However, the devices have traditionally been expensive to produce. To capture a piece of the lithium-ion battery business, American manufacturers need to invest heavily in automated assembly lines.
Once upon a time, manufacturers attempted to automate everything and remove the human element with lights-out factories. But, people are still found on many assembly lines today because humans are still the most programmable, efficient "machines" for most assembly tasks.
Investing in automation requires a major commitment of time, money and other valuable resources. Unfortunately, end users often repeat the same mistakes with automation, because of time constraints and budget concerns.
